Undergraduate Course Guide

Introduction to Information Systems

IFS 132
2nd Semester 2023

FACULTY OF ECONOMIC AND MANAGEMENT SCIENCES

DEPARTMENT OF INFORMATION SYSTEM
Private Bag X17, Bellville, 7535 | Tel: +27 21 959 3680 | Website: www.uwc.ac.za
Physical location: 1st floor, New Computational, and Mathematical Sciences building (CAMS), UWC Campus

1
 INDEX
INDEX ............................................................................................................................... 2
PART A – GENERAL INFORMATION .............................................................................. 4
1. WORD OF WELCOME .............................................................................................. 4
2. TEACHING STAFF CONTACT INFO ........................................................................ 5
Sarel Viljoen (Coordinator) (Lecturer – Practicals)..................................................... 5
Dr. Mziwoxolo Mayedwa (Lecturer – Group 1)........................................................... 5
Avuyile Naki (Lecturer – Group 2).............................................................................. 5
Erlo Keynel (Lecturer – Group 3) ............................................................................... 5
3. ADDITIONAL CONTACT DETAILS ........................................................................... 5
4. HOW TO GET STARTED WITH THE MODULE ....................................................... 6
5. TEACHING & CONSULTATION TIMES .................................................................... 8
6. MODULE OVERVIEW ............................................................................................... 8
7. COMMUNICATION POLICY.................................................................................... 10
8. IMPORTANT INFORMATION .................................................................................. 11
Ground rules ............................................................................................................ 11
Absenteeism / Attendance ....................................................................................... 11
Academic Honesty ................................................................................................... 11
Referencing ............................................................................................................. 12
Plagiarism detection ................................................................................................ 12
Consequences of plagiarism.................................................................................... 12
Plagiarism declaration ............................................................................................. 12
Disclaimer ................................................................................................................ 13
PART B – TEACHING & LEARNING .............................................................................. 14
MODE OF TEACHING & LEARNING .......................................................................... 14
IMPLEMENTATION OF ACADEMIC PLAN FOR 2023 ................................................... 14
2. TEACHING & LEARNING ACTIVITIES ................................................................... 17
Teaching activities will be achieved through ............................................................ 17
Learning activities will be achieved through ............................................................. 17
3. TOPICS COVERED IN THE MODULE .................................................................... 17
4. RESOURCES .......................................................................................................... 17
Prescribed textbook ................................................................................................. 17
Additional Sources ................................................................................................... 17
Internet & Library ..................................................................................................... 18
Audio/Multimedia Files ............................................................................................. 18
iKamva (Learning Management System) ................................................................. 18
5. ASSESSMENT SCHEDULE .................................................................................... 18
6. DESCRIPTION AND EXPLANATION OF ASSESSMENT ACTIVITIES .................. 19

2
 6.1 Term Tests (40%) .............................................................................................. 19
6.2 Practicals (30%) ................................................................................................. 19
6.3 Tutorials (10%) .................................................................................................. 20
6.4 Quizzes (20%) ................................................................................................... 20
6.5 Feedback on Assessments ................................................................................ 20
7. IMPORTANT RULES (Refer to UWC Calendar) ...................................................... 21
8. EMS Faculty: Student Grievance Procedure ........................................................... 25
9. Additional MODULE RELATED SUPPORT INFORMATION ................................... 26
PART C – MODULE ALIGNMENT MATRIX.................................................................... 27
PART D – TOPIC OUTLINE & EXPECTATIONS ............................................................ 29
Chapter 1 – An introduction to Information Systems ................................................ 29
Chapter 2 – Information Systems in Organizations .................................................. 29
Chapter 7 – Operational Systems ............................................................................ 29
Chapter 8 – Management Information and Decision Support Systems ................... 29
Chapter 3 – Hardware: Input, Processing, Output and Storage Devices ................. 32
Chapter 4 – Software: Systems and Application Software ....................................... 33
Chapter 5 – Organizing and storing data ................................................................. 34
Chapter 6 – Computer networks .............................................................................. 35
Chapter 9 – Knowledge management & specialised systems ................................. 36
Chapter 10 – Pervasive Systems............................................................................. 37
Chapter 13 – Security, Privacy, and Ethical issues in INFORMATION SYSTEMS
(SELF STUDY) ........................................................................................................ 38
PART E – LAYOUT TO USE FOR REPORTS ................................................................ 39
PART F – ICON LIBRARY .............................................................................................. 40
PART G – LIST OF EXPLANATORY WORDS ............................................................... 42
PART H – WEEKLY INTERACTIONS & DETAILED PLANNER ..................................... 44

3
 PART A – GENERAL INFORMATION
1. WORD OF WELCOME
Welcome to the second-semester module: Introduction to Information Systems (IFS 132). IFS 132 is an
introductory module that provides you with a theoretical grounding of the fundamentals of Information
Systems. It investigates key concepts such as hardware and software, data and databases, networks,
and business information systems. The module, all course material, and all assessments are offered
exclusively in English. The module carries a total of 15 credit points.

This course guide provides important information and dates relevant to formative and summative
assessments for the semester and can be found on the iKamva website (iKamva.uwc.ac.za). Please
familiarise yourself with its content, important dates, and class assignments. Also remember it’s your
responsibility to check for announcements on a regular basis.

There are four lecturers for this module and a teaching assistant including the tutors to assist you
throughout this module. You will automatically be assigned to a lecture group at the beginning of the
semester (please refer to the issued timetable). However, a time schedule has been created for the module
to guide you. Lecturers and tutors will be available at specific timeslots to assist you with content. Please
note lecturers can be booked for a consultation session (refer to the topic communication in the module
guide or go to the orientation page on iKamva). Tutors will be available during their respective consultation
times in the CAMS building.

Tutorials are compulsory to attend at least once a week and form an important part of your formative
assessment. Please note that face-to-face tutorials will take place. More information can be obtained
under the orientation page on iKamva. For logistical reasons, the changing of lecture groups and tutorial
groups will not be permitted. If problems are encountered you need to immediately inform the lecturer,
tutor coordinator, or marks administrator at which time the request will be evaluated.

Take note that this module is presented as a Continuous Assessment module. This means that you
will be evaluated on an ongoing basis - your achievement of the learning outcomes in the module can
include both formative and summative assessments. All the assessment tasks throughout the
semester will therefore make up your final module mark. Please pay special attention to the time
schedule (available at the end of this guide or also on iKamva) and read the announcements to keep track
of due assessments. Take note that there are NO EXAMS written in this module. Please refer to the
breakdown of the Assessment Schedule to see how you will be assessed.

Any changes to the course will be communicated either in class, via email, and/or on the iKamva website.
Please do not hesitate to consult the administering staff concerning any challenges you may face with this
module. Please inform us beforehand if problems are encountered to allow us to try and assist you in
completing the module successfully.

All of the best for the semester and we hope you will have a meaningful learning experience with us, in
the Information Systems Department.

From the IFS 132 team

4
 2. TEACHING STAFF CONTACT INFO
SAREL VILJOEN Consulting Times:
(COORDINATOR)
(LECTURER – PRACTICALS) Monday 10:00 – 11:00
(ISyear1UWC@gmail.com)
Email:
sviljoen@uwc.ac.za
Thursday 09:00 – 10:00 & 11:15 – 12:00
(Cams 0.68)

DR. MZIWOXOLO Consulting times:

MAYEDWA
(LECTURER – GROUP 1) Monday 12:00 – 15:00
Email:
mmayedwa@uwc.ac.za

AVUYILE NAKI Consulting times:

(LECTURER – GROUP 2)
Wednesday 10:00 – 13:00
Email:
anaki@uwc.ac.za (Cams 0.57)

ERLO KEYNEL Consulting times:

(LECTURER – GROUP 3)
Tuesday 09:30 – 11:00
Email:
Friday 10:30 – 12:00
ekeynel@uwc.ac.za

3. ADDITIONAL CONTACT DETAILS

PROF. OSDEN JOKONYA

Role: Undergraduate Programme Co-ordinator (1st Years)

Responsibility: Address issues not resolved by lecturers/administrator
Email: ojokonya@uwc.ac.za

MRS ALBERTINA HALINDINTWALI

Role: Undergraduate Marks Administrator

Responsibility: Administering all marks of the module, applying for sick
tests/assessments or general mark/credit queries
Email: amujawamilya@uwc.ac.za

5
 4. HOW TO GET STARTED WITH THE MODULE
It is without a doubt that Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) must transform how they carry out
the teaching-and-learning practices due to the global pandemics and the threat of nationwide load
shedding. These factors affect the implementation of various academic processes. Therefore, as
a team, we are committed to keeping the process as simple as possible to assist you, the student,
in keeping up with the work.

Please remain calm and focused during this time, the team (both lecturers and tutors) is here to
assist you in making this module a success. Stick to the periods assigned to the module and
dedicate additional time or perhaps a day to focus on the module content.

How do I learn iKamva Learning Management System?

Our online, blended learning approach will

make use of the iKamva site (Official Learning
Management Site of UWC) where the IFS 132
team provides information, important dates,
and online tests that will enable you to
successfully complete the module. Please
ensure that you keep track of all the content
and announcements posted.

Your lecturers will use iKamva

Announcements to communicate with you
(emails will be automatically directed to your
student account). Take note your lecture Link → iKamva Sign In (uwc.ac.za)
*Log in with your student email address and use your
content will be provided in multiple formats. ID (13 digits) or DOB (yyyymmdd) as the password
This might include face-to-face classes,
recorded lectures (annotated presentations),
screencasts, or readings.

Interacting with iKamva – IFS 132 2023 course site

You will need to become familiar with IKamva and the various tools. Each course you attend
may use IKamva in different ways but is likely to use some of the core features, like the
Lessons tool, Resources, Assignments, and Tests & Quizzes.

Here is a quick overview:

Reviewing your course outline
You need to be familiar with your module guide including the topics, the
assignments, and deadlines so make sure you can have a copy available
at all times. The module guide will be sent as an announcement and can
also be found under the Syllabus tool.

Reviewing the course content

You will be offered lecture content via different forms of media. Classes will be face to
face however it is expected that you work through the narrated PowerPoint slides to
ensure that you understand all topics. If you are offered videos, in most cases there will
be narrations (transcripts) in case you have problems with bandwidth. Take your own
notes while reviewing the course content (narrated PowerPoint slides), as if they were
live lectures. When reading course materials, make notes of what you are learning.

6
Accessing resources
Resources are accessible via Lessons or in the Resources section of your IKamva site.
To download a file, you need to right-click on the file you want to download and save it
to a suitable location on your device (USB, etc.).

Navigating your course

Your course will be divided into lesson topics, practicals, and tutorials. Take time to
understand how your course is organised, how you can navigate between the various
sections, and where to find the tools used in iKamva.

Below is an example of the breakdown for a topic:

• Content/Slides
• PowerPoint slides (original)
• Narrated PowerPoint slides (content explained
by the lecturer – contains audio)
• Text-only narrated document
• Text & slide-based narrated document
• The audio-only version of the narration
• Duration/Session breakdown (content broken
down into smaller more manageable segments)
• Important dates (dates listed for upcoming
deadlines)
• Quiz (Chapter or Practical quiz)
• Interaction/Questions
• Discussion Forum (post general questions -
Q&A segment)
• Chatroom (talk to a lecturer or tutor)
• Examples/Exercises (extra activities to
determine whether you grasp the topic)
• Video & Audio
• YouTube videos (available on iKamva) from
previous more detailed recordings
• Assignments/Activities (Questions that will be
discussed in the tutorial groups
• Check the progress (To-Do checklist – tick off completed activities)

Assignments
You will be expected to complete an assignment that comprises the topics covered in
the module. You will learn how to develop and code a basic website by using google
sites. The assignment will contribute towards your final mark.

Tests and quizzes

At the end of each topic (chapter), you will be required to complete a small quiz covering
the content. Questions will be mainly in the form of multiple-choice questions or short
answer questions where you will need to type an answer. Tests and quizzes are usually
set with specific opening and closing dates and may have time limits in which they must
be completed. Try and make sure that if you need to take a timed test/quiz you will have
a consistent power source for your device (make use of loadshedding timetables) and
enough connectivity to take the test in the time provided. Please note that tests and
quizzes contribute towards your final mark. The completion of these quizzes should be
managed and additional time will not be awarded if missed.

7
 Student learning website
Please use the following website to assist you with your learning. This site
contains resources to assist you with all parts of your learning journey.

https://sites.google.com/uwc.ac.za/uwcstudentlearning/home

5. TEACHING & CONSULTATION TIMES

Please note that the module will be presented in a blended learning manner. Classes will be offered as
face-2-face sessions (take note that these presentation methods might change, i.e. directive from the
university, lack of attendance, etc.) followed by a period of self-study. Please refer to the timetable and the
time schedule for more information.

For teaching, pre-recorded PowerPoint slides will be uploaded for students to do self-directed learning.
The content is broken into manageable sections. Most content and instructions will be available under the
lessons tool on iKamva. Here you will find a breakdown of the activities required for each topic.

For communication with students the following electronic tool(s) on iKamva will be used:
• Announcement tool - The Announcements tool allows for the delivery of messages to the entire
class, to groups, or to specific sections within the class. Participants will see the Announcement
message displayed in the Announcements area of their Home area, as well as within the course
itself. These messages can be set to show immediately or to show during specific dates. Email
notifications can be sent to alert participants of the Announcement message or when additional
information need to be distributed.
• Email – The University email system will be used for student-specific communication. If you have
a matter that is a personal matter you can use the tool to communicate with the lecturer, marks
administrator, or tutor. Please note that emails will only be responded to during official working
hours.

For lecturer/tutor interaction the following electronic tool(s) should be used to consult and communicate
with the IFS 132 team. Make use of the Quick Links, Time Schedule and timetable page on iKamva to see
when someone is available or what procedure to follow.
• You are advised to consult your lecturers, teaching assistant, and/or tutors as soon as you are
faced with a challenge relating to the course so that we can assist you. Please see the consultation
slots for your lecturers above.
• Module email – you can also reach all the module coordinator/lecturers via the following
email ISyear1UWC@gmail.com to post a question or to ask for assistance. Please adhere
strictly to the consultation times.

6. MODULE OVERVIEW
This module will run over 12 ½ weeks and carries a total of 15 credits.

PURPOSE OF THE MODULE (IFS 132)

1 The purpose of • To provide learners with the basic skills and knowledge of computer
this module hardware and software, which will serve as a framework for Information
Technology and Information Systems skills; and
• To introduce learners to organizational activities and the roles played by
Information Systems (IS in organizations).

8
2 Pre-requisites • No prior knowledge is required, as this is an introductory module to the
fundamentals of Information Systems.
3 Preparation for • The concepts and principles introduced in this module form the backbone
subsequent of a comprehensive understanding of information systems and it will lay a
modules theoretical foundation for further studies.
MAIN LEARNING OUTCOMES (LO)
4 Main outcomes of At the successful completion of this module the student should:
this course: • Demonstrate the role that information systems play in different
organisations.
• Explain the role that technology has in relation to the functioning of an
information system.
• Identify various business information systems.
MAIN CONTENT
5 The theoretical • Information system (IS) concepts, system components, information,
element of the sources of competitive advantage, IS in organizations, IS careers, and
course presents globalisation challenges.
overviews of: • Computer hardware
• Computer software
• Organising data and information; databases.
• Telecommunications and computer networks
• Major classes of business information systems
• Security, privacy, and ethical issues
6 Breakdown of • Contact: 52 hours
Learning Time • Assignments & tasks: 40 hours
• Tests: 6 hours
• Self-study & preparation: 39 hours
• Practicals: 13 hours
• Total learning time 150 hours
7 Methods of • Formative and summative assessment that includes:
Student Term tests, Individual assignments (group work components will be included
Assessment if lockdown is cancelled), multi-media presentations, tutorial tasks, term
tests, Quizzes, and practicals will form the course work (100%)
MODE OF ASSESSMENT
8 Continuous WHAT IS CONTINUOUS ASSESSMENT?
Assessment 1. Continuous assessment is a form of assessment that assesses students’
ongoing progress with respect to the attainment of outcomes/objectives in
a module. Continuous assessment is an alternative to the traditional
assessment model that operates in many university contexts. It can be used
instead of traditional models of assessment while maintaining academic
rigour.
2. The rationale for continuous assessment is to ensure that students work
consistently. This provides early indicators of their performance, with built-
in measures of feedback and support for students to master particular areas
of a set module.
3. It fosters critical awareness and reflection by students enabling them to take
responsibility for their learning and monitor their own progress.
4. A continuous assessment approach/ model makes use of both formative
assessment and summative assessment tasks.

9
 4.1 The formative assessment uses student learning data to provide feedback
to the students and lecturer in the teaching and learning process (Dunn &
Mulvenon, 2009). Formative assessment provides regular progress
updates for students through lecturer feedback. These tasks serve to
scaffold student learning. Scaffolding means that each task builds on
preceding tasks/learning to enhance understanding and to integrate
learning. Formative assessment enables staff and students to identify and
close learning gaps. This is known as assessment for learning.
4.2 The summative assessment uses student learning data to determine
academic progress at the end of a specified period (for example after a
section of work was completed). Its purpose is to assess the learning that
has occurred in order to grade, certify or record progress (Dunn &
Mulvenon, 2009; Harlen & Deakin Crick, 2002).

PLEASE NOTE THAT BECAUSE THE MODULE IS PRESENTED AS A

CONTINUOUS ASSESSMENT MODULE THERE WILL BE NO EXAM
COMPONENT AND ALSO NO MAKE-UP OPPORTUNITIES.

7. COMMUNICATION POLICY
Students are encouraged to communicate with staff/tutors by using the tools provided (refer to
5. Teaching and consulting times) and refrain from emailing lecturers directly to their staff email
accounts.

Other methods of communication available on iKamva include the Chatroom and Discussion
Forum tools that allow all students, tutors, and lecturers to publish notifications, exchange
information, or clarify any content related to the course content. Please note that these might not
be monitored actively. Face to face or online meeting interaction will be the main method of
communication.

The main advantages of using the Chatroom or Discussion Forum in this module are:
• Students often encounter the same technical issues/problems and by posting a message
on the Chatroom/Discussion Forum all students can see the identified problem and learn
from the lecturer’s or tutor’s response.
• This method minimises the number of emails that administering staff receive and therefore
avails them for more constructive interaction with students during consultation time.
• Tutors (are also linked to the iKamva site) - are thus able to follow the chatroom/discussion
forum and avail themselves to students for further guidance.

This medium allows lecturers to follow the learning trends in the class and adjust practices where
necessary.

PLEASE NOTE:

A dedicated module Gmail account was created for communication with the module
coordinator/lecturers. All lecturers will be able to track communication in this matter. This method
will also ensure that a message is not missed and answered in a timeous manner. Please note
that emails will only be answered between 08h30 and 16h30 from Monday to Friday during the
consulting times as indicated on iKamva.

10
 ISyear1UWC@gmail.com

Take note that face to face consultations can be booked by communicating directly to the lecturer
involved. The lecturer will then confirm the booking. Alternatively, a video consultation can take
place via Google Meet (again a dedicated booking should be made and a confirmation with a link
to the Google Meet session will be send by the lecturer).

8. IMPORTANT INFORMATION
GROUND RULES
➔ Keeping up to date with module content - It is your own responsibility to ensure that you
receive all the information about this module; information will be provided via
announcements, and through interaction on the iKamva platform or will be communicated
through official UWC communication channels (email). Also, ensure that you are aware and
understand the information and regulations pertaining to the Faculty as indicated in the
University Calendar.
➔ Follow the topic breakdown on iKamva – important information is provided for each topic
or assessment task. The topic breakdown gives students information on Content/Slides (in
various delivery modes), Session breakdown (content broken down into smaller more
manageable segments), Important dates (dates listed for upcoming deadlines), Quiz
information (about topics and practicals covered), Interaction/Questions, Discussion Forum
(post general questions - Q&A segment), Chatroom (talk to a lecturer or tutor),
Examples/Exercises (extra activities to determine whether you grasp the topic),
Assignments/Activities (Questions that will be discussed in the tutorial groups) and a Check
progress checklist (to tick off activities completed to monitor your own progress)
➔ Critical thinkers – You are encouraged to ask questions and to reflect on the information
provided.
➔ Queries and consultation discussions may be recorded, and you may be asked to
confirm that a matter has been successfully concluded. However due to the size of the class
students should post queries on the Discussion Forum – to allow fellow students, with
perhaps a similar query, to learn from the query/answer.

ABSENTEEISM / ATTENDANCE
Please note that you will be expected to attend face to face sessions for theoretical, tutorial
and practical classes, however some portions of the work is self-guided. Ensure that you read
the announcements and follow the time schedule to keep track of theses interactions.

If you miss any submission deadline or test (due to extenuating reasons beyond your
control) communicate with the module coordinator, your lecturer or tutor to make a note of the
circumstances leading up to the delay to submit work. As a team, we need to keep track of
who submitted what, when, and how. Submissions of tasks/assessments without proper
notification or proof will not be allowed. Take note that a dedicated page is available to
apply for special

ACADEMIC HONESTY
Academic dishonesty is a serious transgression and will be dealt with in terms of the provisions
of the University’s Disciplinary Rules for students (Rule 3.5 of Section 3 in the General
Calendar). Academic dishonesty is not limited to plagiarism, cheating, and collusion, but
extends to all deceptions relating to academic work. Read the UWC policy on plagiarism
(refer to the ‘EMS Manifesto to Avoid Plagiarism’ on the iKamva site).

11
REFERENCING
There are several academically acceptable referencing conventions or referencing styles.
Two of the more popular conventions are the Harvard method and the APA method.
Undergraduate students are required to learn the APA referencing convention. Please
download the APA guide from the Library section on the UWC site. You may also want to learn
to use the referencing software; Mendeley.

PLAGIARISM DETECTION
The university uses an online application called Turnitin to detect plagiarism in order to deter
academic dishonesty and cheating and strictly monitoring such activities raises the academic
principles held by the University. Students might be enrolled on Turnitin by the instructor before
the commencement of assignments. When submission through Turnitin is required, students
will receive login details (that is, a username and password via email from Turnitin). It is
important to remember your password. To gain access to the module site (IFS 132), visit the
www.turnitin.com home page and enter your login details in the address box provided at the
top right corner of the page. Once you gain access, the system gives an option to change the
password if you so wish.

CONSEQUENCES OF PLAGIARISM
• The following guideline will be used to penalise those that are found guilty of plagiarising as
determined by Turnitin or by the lecturer/tutor.
o Below 15% = incur no penalty.
o Between 15% and 30% = will be awarded a mark (receive only 50% of the mark).
o Between 30% and 50% = zero will be awarded for the submission.
o Greater than 50% = student will be sent to the module coordinator for further evaluation
followed by remedial action.
• In cases where blatant copying (plagiarism) is involved, the student will be sent to the
Proctor’s office and can be suspended or even expelled from the University.

IF YOU ARE REQUIRED TO Submit work on turnitin (THIS WILL BE EXPLICITLY

COMMUNICATED IF REQUIRED) PLEASE FOLLOW THE STEPS BELOW:
1. Click the paper submit button on the IFS 132 class homepage.
2. On the submission page, use the pull-down box to choose how you want to submit your
paper - by file upload or cut and paste.
3. Enter information for the report including the author's name, and the title of the report.
4. To submit a report as a file, click the browse button and locate the document on your
computer. Then click submit to upload the paper.
5. After successful submission and processing, Turnitin will rate the amount of plagiarism
detected in your work and allocate a percentage similarity index.
6. Click on the colour-coded bar which comes in different colours (blue, green, orange, red)
depending on the percentage of plagiarism detected.
7. Print the originality report and attach it to the original hardcopy report.
8. Students are required to submit a signed copy of the plagiarism declaration (see next
section, below) page.

For more information, please visit student articles on the help link on www.turnitin.com or visit
iKamva and download the ‘Guide’ to assist students in submitting assignments.

PLAGIARISM DECLARATION
Note: always remember to include this plagiarism declaration on the first page of your tutorial
task and/or assignment before you submit it. Below is an example that you can “cut & paste”
onto your cover page.

12
 DECLARATION
1. I know that plagiarism is wrong. Plagiarism is to use another's work and pretend that it is one's
own.
2. Each significant contribution to, and quotation in this [essay/report] that I have taken from the
work(s) of other people has been credited and has been cited & referenced.
3. This [essay/report] is my own work.
4. I have not allowed and will not allow anyone to copy my work with the intention of passing it off
as his or her own work.

Signed.................................................. Date...............................................................................
Full Name of Student(s) ………………………………………………………………………….

DISCLAIMER
The syllabus is subject to change to reflect new materials, assignments, new assessment
submission dates and to remain current with industry advancements. In the event of this
happening, students will be notified in class and/or via email/iKamva. Also, students are
encouraged to check iKamva regularly. Students are also expected to take the lead in their
own learning process as not all of the examinable content will be covered in lectures due to
limited time and resources (for example, due to time constraints, some chapters might not be
covered in class sessions but may form part of assignments, tutorials or self-study).

13
 PART B – TEACHING & LEARNING
MODE OF TEACHING & LEARNING
Teaching and learning will be conducted face-to-face, on a weekly basis (however students can
work ahead and complete tasks and activities faster than what is suggested). Please note, if
there is load shedding the pre-recorded lectures are available on iKamva system.

IMPLEMENTATION OF ACADEMIC PLAN FOR 2023

The DVC Academic has released the following information regarding the academic plan for this
semester. IFS131/132 will be implementing the plan as follows to ensure that there are no
exclusions but that we still maintain academic rigor and the inclusion of essential graduate
attributes.

Principle 1: No Exclusions Course implementation: IFS 132

Where practically possible, no student with The module is presented in such a way that a student can easily catch
COVID19-related issues will be excluded up if they missed any content due to illness/any other valid reason.
from any scheduled assessment during the Enough time has been built into submission deadlines to ensure all
course of a module, including the final students can successfully complete/submit the different assessment
assessment, during the period of this crisis. tasks.
Extended periods of absenteeism will be evaluated on a case-by-
case basis once the proper supporting proof has been submitted to
the module coordinator and marks administrator. For extended
periods of absenteeism, the module coordinator and marks
administrator should be informed as soon as possible to allow them
to come up with recovery plans/strategies.

All content is available in different formats (basic presentation,

narrated presentation, videos, text-only versions, etc.). Students can
opt to use different versions based on their data limitations. All
students are however strongly advised to make use of the VPN to
avoid data issues.

A student needs survey (to be completed

in week 1) is included in iKamva Orientation.
The survey aims to identify at-risk students
at the start of the semester. Students will
also be required to provide potential
solutions for their challenges as problem-
solving is an important graduate attribute
and 21st-century skill, e.g., non-conducive
work environment - work with a friend, neighbour or family member,
or work at night etc.

Principle 2: Without Prejudice

If students report that they were prejudiced The instructions to use VPN are provided on iKamva under the
due to a lack of access to a learning- Orientation page of the module page.
conducive environment, access to
resources, and/or other reasonable Medical reasons may only be accepted as proof for late or non-
circumstance related to COVID 19, then submission, when there is enough evidence that you were
such students will be provided with incapacitated for the period (leading to and during which) the
additional assessment opportunities within assessment was due.
a reasonable time.

14
Principle 3: 100% CA Modules

Modules that have 100% Continuous Two summative assessments (Tests) will
Assessment as their assessment type take place that covers all module outcomes.
should include higher weighted integrated Tests form 40% of the CAM component and
assessments in their assessment will be moderated to ensure quality and
schedules, which bring together different fairness. Sick tests will be available for
module outcomes. This principle should be those students who missed the test due to
read with principle 9. a valid reason. An application should be
submitted to the following form (Special
Assessments Application form) within 5
working days of missing the test. Please
note that there is no sick test if you missed
both the test and sick test.

Practical Assignment. Enough time has been made available for

students to work on their assignment and to showcase their
understanding of the practical components. No extension or
resubmission will be allowed. Students are encouraged to start early
and to communicate with their tutors and show them (their tutors)
their progress on a regular basis.

Principle 4: CFA Modules

All modules that have CFA (Continuous N/A

and Final Assessment) as their
assessment type may propose changes to
the current ratio of continuous assessment
(CA) to final assessment (FA), to SEC via
SAP.

Principle 5: No Sit-down Exam

Except where otherwise required by Assessments (Tests) will be done via iKamva. These tests have been
accreditation bodies, no sit-down broken into smaller units to allow students, with data/device issues,
examination will be held for Semester 1 to successfully complete the test without the need to redo the whole
modules; these exams will be replaced with test. Additional time is granted if issues are encountered.
Summative Assessments (SA) that
evaluate the achievement of core The assignment (Basic Web site) is available early on iKamva and
outcomes. The SAs submissions must be students can use free tools (which can be downloaded from the
deployed and undertaken remotely and iKamva site) to create the site. The VPN can be used to ensure that
online by students. students retrieve it data-free. No late submissions will be accepted,
the submission date is provided early in the timeframe of the course,
and sick notes will not be accepted as proof for late or non-
submission, not unless there is enough evidence that for the period
(leading to and during which) the assignment was to be done you
were incapacitated.

For all other assessments, students are encouraged to take note of

all announcements and communication from the module coordinator,
lecturers as well as tutors. Read the instructions and complete all
assessments. Students should ensure that they allow enough time to
submit assessments (try to built-in a buffer if issues are encountered).

15
Principle 6: Practical & Clinical Work

Practical assessments and clinical N/A

evaluations will be conducted in a phased
approach, depending on the severity of the
pandemic.

Principle 7: Credibility of Student

Submissions

Final and summative assessment tasks, in A multimodal approach using various methods of assessments will
particular, must be designed to ensure the be used to ensure credibility. Certain aspects of assessments may
authenticity and credibility of student be submitted to Turnitin to check for plagiarism.
submissions, namely, that the submission
reflects the student’s own work, as far as is
reasonably possible.

Principle 8: Change to Assessment

Schedules

Changes to assessment schedules of All changes to module descriptors have been sent to the appropriate
modules must be submitted by lecturers to bodies and have been approved. No further changes will be made
HoDs with the original schedules and the during this year to assessment schedules.
proposed new assessment schedules. The
Faculty Academic Planning Committee
must approve these changes and students
must be notified of such changes by
lecturers.

Principle 9: Flexibility of Assessments

As far as possible, the University will Students will be able to access all coursework and assessment dates
accommodate the need for flexibility at the start of the semester. It is important that IS graduates learn to
regarding the scheduling of assessments, manage their timelines effectively (this forms part of one of the
re-assessments, and catch-up graduate attributes).
opportunities.
Student will receive detailed progress reports after each assessment
and can follow their progress related to the marks received as well as
how they compare with their peers. Areas of need can be detected
early on and interventions for improvement can be proposed.

This module is a 100% Continuous assessment module. It is

therefore important that all assessments/tasks are completed and
submitted. Additional catch-up opportunities at the end of the
semester or resubmission opportunities for tasks will not be
allowed.

Principle 10: Internal & External

Moderation

Assessment must be subject to normal A guest account was created on iKamva for the moderator who will
internal and external moderation ensure that the two summative assessments are of high quality and
processes. For exit-level modules, that all outcomes are covered in a fair manner. Marks will also be
assessments must be externally made available to the moderator to ensure that fairness is
moderated, and all non-exit-level modules maintained.
must be moderated internally.

16
 2. TEACHING & LEARNING ACTIVITIES
TEACHING ACTIVITIES WILL BE ACHIEVED THROUGH
• Interactive communication with students and tutors, PowerPoint presentations in class,
tutorials, set/answer questions, set assignments, and ongoing feedback.

LEARNING ACTIVITIES WILL BE ACHIEVED THROUGH

• Pre-reading assigned chapters/content before class.
• Participating in class discussions (listening, taking notes, and querying).
• Creating concept maps & completing tasks during tutorials.
• Engaging in individual and group assignments.
• Participating during tutorials and practicals.
• Writing term tests, quizzes, and Quizzes.
• Student self-monitoring, communication, and teamwork.
• Students are expected to do preparatory work for lectures and tutorials, do extra
reading/research on related topics, engage in group discussions, and communicate with
lecturers and tutors.

3. TOPICS COVERED IN THE MODULE

WEEK TOPICS CHAPTER READINGS
1 An introduction to information systems, IS in organizations, and
Chapters 1, 2, 7 & 8
2 various types of systems (Operational, MIS, DSS)
3
Hardware: Input, processing, output, and storage devices Chapter 3
4
5
Software: Systems and Application Software Chapter 4
6
7
Organizing and storing data Chapter 5
8
9
Computer Networks Chapter 6
10
11 Knowledge Management & Specialised Information Systems Chapter 9
12 Pervasive Computing Chapter 10
Security, privacy, and ethical issues (Self Study – not for
Chapter 13
evaluation purposes)

4. RESOURCES
PRESCRIBED TEXTBOOK
Stair, R., Reynolds, G & Chesney, T. (2021). Principles of Business
Information Systems, (4th Ed), Cengage Learning. Print ISBN:
9781473774629, 1473774624 eText ISBN: 9781473774629,
1473774624
ADDITIONAL SOURCES
• Stair, R., Reynolds, G & Chesney, T. (2018). Principles of Business Information
Systems, (EMEA Ed), Cengage Learning.
(ISBN: 978-1-4737-4841-5).
• Stair, RM. & Reynolds, GW. (2016). Fundamentals of Information Systems, (8th Ed),
Cengage Learning. (ISBN: 9781305082168).
• Stair, R. & Reynolds, G & Chesney, T. (2012). Fundamentals of Business Information
Systems, (2nd Ed), Cengage Learning. (ISBN: 9781408064269).

17
INTERNET & LIBRARY
Additional reading materials might be referred to complement the textbook. Topical issues will
be uploaded on the iKamva site for your reference and might be referred to in assessments.
Although these readings will be sufficient for the understanding of the main concepts for this
course, additional reading material might need to be consulted for further insight. Some
interesting and helpful academic articles and books may be found at the following resources:
EBSCO host journal, Google scholar, and Information systems textbooks obtainable in the
library level 7.

AUDIO/MULTIMEDIA FILES
All slides and module-specific documents are available for download. When possible, audio
or video recordings of classes will be made available on iKamva to allow students to catch up
on concepts that they find difficult and want to revisit or might have missed due to illness.
These files can be downloaded and placed on any computer or mobile device for playback.
From time-to-time other sources such as YouTube could assist in learning about concepts not
fully covered in class or the textbook.

Please subscribe to the module’s YouTube Channel where concepts are also explained, and
exciting videos or developments are suggested (look out for interesting IS-related videos and
thought-provoking IS issues).
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCM4ZFmuUWmnSpd1mZI7ipSg

IKAMVA (LEARNING MANAGEMENT SYSTEM)

All communication (announcements and discussion forum) and distribution of course material
of the module take place within the IFS 132 2023 module tab. All registered students have
access to the iKamva platform. It is the responsibility of the student to go to the platform to
ensure that they know what is happening within the module. Students will also be expected to
complete online module quizzes, read about new IS developments (Blog posts), and submit
their assignments as a backup on the platform.

5. ASSESSMENT SCHEDULE
Assessment
Weight Date Time Scope Venue
Type
Online
Friday, 22 September 14:30 Chapters 1,2,7,8, 3, 4
T1 = 20% (iKamva)
Term tests
T2 = 20% Saturday, 21 October 09:00 Chapters 5, 6, 9 & 10
Online
(iKamva)
10%
Small Every week (after section have been Blended
Practicals HTML/CSS completed) learning
(Small Practicals See requirements on
HTML/CSS+ 23h55 iKamva
2 Sept – Report
Assignment) 20% 30 Sept – Website
Follow instructions
Tutorial
Assignment regarding
7 Oct - Presentation
submissions

All content covered in

Tutorial tasks 10% Every week (see schedule)
lectures
Face 2 face

Chap 1, 2, 7 & 8 (2%)

Chap 3 & 4 (4%) Self-guided
Weekly After topics have been completed (see
20% iKamva Test & Quiz section)
Chap 5 (5%) Online
Quizzes Chap 6 (5%) (iKamva)
Chap 9 & 10 (4%)

18
 6. DESCRIPTION AND EXPLANATION OF ASSESSMENT
ACTIVITIES

Each assignment, task, and test has been designed to test your understanding of one or more of
the main learning outcomes. It is important that you understand that less emphasis may be placed
on learning outcomes that have been extensively tested formatively these might be excluded
during summative assessments.
‘Formative’ assessment refers to the assignments and tasks completed during the course of the
semester. Where it is practically possible, a number of opportunities will be created for you to
improve your performance. Students who have not attempted the assignments or tasks at all will
not be allowed these improvement opportunities unless both lecturer and coordinator are satisfied
that special consideration is warranted.
‘Summative’ assessment refers to the final and overall assessment; in this case, it is the tests
and assignment, which takes place at the end of specific periods. A summative assessment tests
your Skill, Knowledge, and Application (SKA) in all the main learning outcomes that were taught
during the course. The scope of this assessment, therefore, includes all of the work covered
during the preceding period.

Please ensure that you familiarise yourself with the guidelines for assessment and special
consideration for re-submissions - Please refer to Rule A.5.2…15 of Section 7 of the General
Calendar for 2023.

6.1 TERM TESTS (40%)

Tests are designed to check your understanding of one or more of the main learning outcomes
and to provide the lecturer and student with the needed information to adjust their teaching and
learning within the set timeframe. Students are reminded to do self-study throughout the term
in preparation for tests. The tests will cover all topics covered across the module and their
contribution to your final mark is 40% (Test 1 = 20% and Test 2 = 20%). Please note the date
of the test and prepare accordingly. It is advisable that you adhere to and schedule time for the
test preparation as stipulated in this guide unless communicated differently. Please note that
test dates are communicated at the beginning of the semester and that it is the
responsibility of the student to ensure that these dates are reserved in their calendars.

6.2 PRACTICALS (30%)

Practicals are designed in such a manner as to allow you to learn about basic web development
using HTML and CSS as coding languages. Students are expected to do preliminary activities,
research, and reading in order to complete the assignment task(s).

6.2.1. Assignment (S) Stipulations

a) Assignments must be submitted on or before the due dates. Assignments that are
more than 2 days late will not be accepted. Because of the extended period of time
provided to submit your assignments, sick notes will not be accepted as proof for
non- or late submission, not unless there is enough evidence that for the period
(leading to and during which) the assignment was to be done you were incapacitated.
b) If a Turnitin report is required, it is recommended that students submit their
assignment at least 1 week earlier to Turnitin to allow for any remedial action, based
on Turnitin % feedback. If any changes are made during the remedial period, please
be sure that the updated Turnitin report is the same assignment submitted on the
respective assignment submission dates.

19
 c) All assignments (if a report is required) should have the prescribed cover page and
plagiarism declaration. Please refer to the iKamva site or the end of this module guide
for templates.

6.3 TUTORIALS (10%)

Although physical attendance of classes and tutorials will not happen the student’s interaction
and progress will be monitored in the online learning platform (iKamva) and WhatsApp. The
information will be used for either mitigating or aggravating circumstances in the event of a
request for special consideration when an assessment task was missed. It is in your best
interest to attend all lectures and tutorials for this course. Students are expected to complete
and submit all tutorials to their assigned tutor.

6.4 QUIZZES (20%)

Spot tests/chapter quizzes are designed to test your understanding of one or more of the main
learning outcomes and to provide the lecturer and student with the essential information to
adjust their teaching and learning within the set timeframe. Chapter quizzes will take place the
week after a chapter had been completed. These will be available on iKamva and it is the
responsibility of the student to complete these. Each quiz covers the recently finished
chapter(s) in the module and contributes to your final mark.

6.5 FEEDBACK ON ASSESSMENTS

General assessment feedback is typically 2 weeks after the assessment. Due to the online
learning environment and the exceptionally large classes, the course caters to, and for the
inability to work from the university, the feedback period might be extended by another week.

Your tutors will provide you with feedback about your tutorials and assignments – please note
that your tutors are also working in difficult circumstances and might require a little more time.

If you have questions regarding the marking of your scripts/assignments,

you should consult with the lecturer or tutor who marked it, for
clarification. You can submit a mark query by completing the Google
Form (Click Here). Test marks will be released once verified by the
lecturing staff. If a student feels the need to see their iKamva submission,
they should contact the lecturer who will then download the test from iKamva and explain the
mark obtained.

In order to adhere to the POPI act. Assessment marks

will be made available through the iKamva Grade
center tool (quizzes, tutorials & assignment marks)
and/or will be emailed individually to students. Take
note that emailed grades will indicate how you are
progressing in the module (group graph) and will also
show how the group is performing.

20
 7. IMPORTANT RULES (REFER TO UWC CALENDAR)
The following rules directly apply to undergraduate offerings. These rules appear on page 80
onwards in the UWC Calendar for 2023. Please ensure that you familiarise yourself with these
rules and guidelines.

RULE
NUMBER TITLE RULE
A.5.2.1 Basic a) The Departmental Chairperson/Director is responsible for the quality and
Provisions integrity of the assessment processes in the Department/School.
Assessment in practical modules is based on continuous assessment and/or
a practical examination or final assessment task.

A.5.2.2 Associate a) An associate student may be permitted to register for the purposes of
Students examination or final assessment only for a module he/she failed the previous
year. An associate student may not attend classes or submit material for
continuous assessment in the relevant module. To be admitted as an
associate student, he/she must have obtained a continuous assessment mark
of at least 50% in the module as well as at least 30% in the previous year’s
examination or final assessment task.
b) Unless otherwise decided by Senate, a student may be an associate student
for modules to a maximum of 30 credits per year.
c) Students may apply in writing to the relevant Faculty before the closing date
as published in the General Calendar.
d) Associate student status is only valid for the current registration year.
A.5.2.3 Continuous a) After completion of the assessment tasks of each module, the department/
Assessment lecturer will allocate to each student a continuous assessment mark in respect
of such modules. For each module, the department concerned determines the
continuous assessment tasks and the relative weighting of each. The nature
of these assessments and the relative weighting of each must be made known
to students at the commencement of each module.
b) With the exception of modules where continuous assessment only is used,
continuous assessment must count for at least 40% of the overall assessment
of a module, unless otherwise approved by Senate.
c) Except where Senate, on the recommendation of the Senate Assessment
Committee, determines otherwise, or as provided for in (d) below, a student
shall not be allowed to write the examinations or summative or comprehensive
assessment task in a module unless s/he has obtained a continuous
assessment mark of at least 40% for that module. In the case of professional
programmes,80 faculties may require a higher continuous assessment mark
for practical or clinical work.
d) The 40% minimum in the continuous assessment required in (c) above is not
applicable to first semester modules at the first-year level.
e) A student who wishes to contest the accuracy of a continuous assessment
mark below 40% must do so in writing before the final assessment date and
undertake the final assessment. In such cases, the outcome of the final
assessment will be subject to the student’s continuous assessment mark
meeting the 40% sub-minimum.

21
 f) With the exception of modules where continuous assessment only is used, a
continuous assessment mark is valid only in conjunction with the formal
examination or final assessment task with which the module is concluded,
unless –
i) the student is granted the status of associate student.
ii) the student qualified for an examination or final assessment but was
demonstrably unable to complete this at the prescribed time, in which
case s/he may be permitted to retain the continuous assessment mark.
A.5.2.5 Pass Unless otherwise approved by Senate, a student shall obtain credit for a module
Requirements by gaining –
a) a final mark of at least 50%, computed in the relevant ratio from the continuous
assessment mark and the examination or final assessment mark; and
b) at least 40% in the examination or final assessment task.

A.5.2.6 Supplementary a) Unless Senate decides otherwise, a student shall be admitted to a

Examinations supplementary examination in respect of a module in which he/she has written
the final examination, or completed the final assessment task, and did not
meet the pass requirements, but has obtained –
i) an overall mark for the module of at least 45%, or
ii) a continuous assessment mark of at least 50%, and at least 30% in the
examination or final assessment task for the module, or
iii) final mark of 50% or more but an examination mark of less than 40%.
b) A supplementary assessment must be based on the work prescribed
for the original examination or final assessment. It may consist of an oral
and/or written examination, a practical examination, or some other form of
final assessment task approved by the Senate.
i) A supplementary examination paper is a full-length paper.
ii) In cases where the formal assessment includes a supplementary
examination, the final mark for that module will not be lower than the mark
obtained before the supplementary assessment.
A.5.2.7 Special a) Within the assessment period, the Faculty Board of the Faculty concerned (or
Assessments a designated committee of that Faculty Board) may grant permission for a
special assessment in the case of a student who has been prevented from
completing any assessment task, due to –
i) illness immediately preceding or on the day of the assessment, provided
that a satisfactory medical certificate, specifying the nature and the
duration of the illness, is submitted; or
ii) any other serious special circumstances, which may justify such special
assessment provided that satisfactory proof of such circumstances, shall
be produced.
iii)Where a student has written a special assessment, the final mark could be
more than 50%.
b) Unless otherwise determined by Senate, a student wishing to be considered
for a special examination or special final assessment task must submit (or
cause to be submitted), within five (5) working days after the date of the formal
examination, or the date of completion of the final assessment task, the
following documents to the Departmental Chairperson/Director concerned:
i) application for such special assessments on the prescribed form;
ii) documentary proof of relevant circumstances, and
iii) receipt of payment of the prescribed fee (if applicable).

22
A.5.2.8 Senate A Senate Discretionary Assessment may be granted, if the Faculty Board
Discretionary concerned has obtained prior permission from Senate, in cases where:
Assessment a) a student owes no more than one module to promote to the next level of study
(SDA) or complete a programme, provided that the student has written the final
examination or second chance examination and have obtained an overall
aggregate of at least 40% for the module.
b) the final mark for the module shall not exceed 50%.

A.5.2.9 A student granted a Senate Discretionary Assessment, will not under any
circumstances be granted a further assessment opportunity.
A.5.2.10 Condoned On application by the student, the Faculty Assessment Committee concerned may
Passes grant a condoned pass under the following provisions:
a) Condoned passes must be granted by the Faculty Assessment Committee
based on the student’s overall performance.
b) Condoned passes shall be permitted for the purposes of graduation in one of
the programme’s modules only; they should preferably only be permitted in
elective modules rather than core modules.
c) A condoned pass permits a student to gain credit for a completed module,
which he/she failed, where the final mark for the module is no less than 45%
and a sub-minimum of 40% in the examination or final assessment has been
achieved.
d) A condoned pass may not be granted if there has already been an upward
mark adjustment for the purpose of a pass in the same year.
e) A condoned pass must be reflected as 50% on the student’s academic record,
provided that an inscription will indicate that it is a condoned pass.
f) The Senate Assessment Committee should be notified of all condoned
passes granted.

Faculties will finalize the condoned pass and the completion of the student will be
done by Senate Assessment Committee.
A.5.2.11 Remarking of Examination scripts or final assessment tasks will be remarked on application by a
Examination student and at the prescribed rate per module payable in advance. The application
Scripts / Final must be in writing and reach the Student Administration Department at the date
Assessments specified in the General calendar for both the June and November assessments.
A.5.2.12 Should the internal examiner(s) uphold the mark for the questions
answered in an examination script(s) or assessment item after thoroughly checking
the script(s) or assessment item and the allocation of marks, the script(s) or
assessment item shall be referred for further review to an external examiner who
has not previously marked the assessment. The marks allocated by the external
examiner shall become the new examination mark.
A.5.2.13 A student’s payment will be returned if a higher symbol is allocated to
him/her after the re-marking of an examination script or final assessment.
A.5.2.14 The University does not guarantee that remarking of the final assessment
or examination scripts will be completed within a fixed period of time.

23
A.5.2.15 Re-submission a) A department may permit a student to resubmit failed assessment exercises,
of Assessment other than examinations, within provisions made known to students by the
Exercises lecturer responsible before the commencement of a module. Such provisions
include, but are not limited to, the kind of exercise that may be resubmitted
and the length of time between the original assessment and the re-
assessment.
i) A request for the re-submission of the exercise must be made to the
Departmental Chairperson/Director within five (5) working days of the
return of the exercise.
ii) The application must clearly state the grounds for the request.
iii) In granting approval to re-submit, the lecturer must indicate whether the
whole or part of the assessment exercise must be redone and stipulate the
date for its re-submission.
iv) The amended mark that may be awarded after the re-submission may not
exceed 50 %.
v) A student may only be granted permission to re-submit once per module.
A.5.2.16 Review of a) Where a student has reason to believe that the mark received for an
Mark
assessment exercise, other than a final sit-down examination, is unfair or
incorrect, he/she may request a review of the mark.
b) Any assessment exercise may only be submitted for the review of a mark
once, and the work submitted for review may not be altered or added to by
the student.
c) A student wishing to have his/her mark reviewed must submit, within five (5)
working days of the return of the exercise, a written application to the
Departmental Chairperson/Director concerned, specifying the grounds for the
request.
A.5.2.17 Review of A student wishing to review his or her examination script must submit, within five
Examination (5) working days of the return of the exercise, a written application to the
Scripts Departmental Chairperson/Director concerned, specifying the grounds for the
request.
A.5.2.18 Appeal against Assessment Decision
A student is entitled to appeal against an assessment decision if he/she can
demonstrate that the decision was wrong or unfair. The letter of appeal must
specify the reasons why the assessment decision was wrong or unfair, and that
the lecturer and the Departmental Chairperson/Director have been consulted in an
effort to resolve the matter. Students must direct such appeals in writing to the
Faculty Assessment Committee. An appeal will only be heard by the Faculty
Assessment Committee if the student can demonstrate that he/she has consulted
with the lecturer and the Departmental Chairperson/Director in an effort to resolve
the matter.

24
 8. EMS FACULTY: STUDENT GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE
The following procedures should be followed to resolve grievances.

Purpose: Ensure that relations between students and staff are equitable.
Definition: Any claim that the student has sustained academic disadvantage.

Grievances may include but are not limited to:

a) Formative Assessment mark queries
b) Unreasonable delays in publishing of formative assessment marks
c) Complaints about teaching of staff member
d) Complaints relating to the availability of staff members for teaching and/or consultation
e) Complaints relating to administrative support relating to a module
f) Complaints relating to the Supervisor/s
g) Undergraduate admission appeals
h) Post-graduate admission appeals

Procedure:

NATURE OF GRIEVANCE1
STAFF MEMBER
A B C D E F G H
Marks Administrator 1
Lecturer/Supervisor 2 1 1 1
Module co-ordinator 3 2 1 1 2
Prog Coordinator/Subject Head/ 4 3 2 2 3 2
Division Head
Departmental Chair/Director 5 4 3 3 4 3 1
Faculty Officer/Senior Faculty 6 5 5
Officer
Faculty Manager 7 6 6 1 2
Dean/Deputy Dean 4 4 4 2 3
Deputy Registrar: Academic
Administration

* Student grievance should be submitted in writing to the staff member in order of the above schedule.
* Should it not be resolved it is escalated to the next level.
* All communication to students should be in writing.

25
 9. ADDITIONAL MODULE RELATED SUPPORT INFORMATION
The following very important information will also assist in ensuring that you are up to date with
the activities required in the module.

A module alignment matrix that shows the Icon library, explaining the icons that we use
learning objectives for this module, and the throughout this module.
related teaching and learning activities for PART F (p40)
how we plan to achieve these objectives.
PART C (p27)

Topic outline and expectations for each

chapter, giving you some good learning tips
Glossary of terms used within this module.
and additional activities and exercises. PART
PART G (p42)
D (p29)

A detailed planner, outlining when topics will

be covered, as well as important dates
Layout to use for report/assignment regarding assignments, tests, tutorials, etc.
submission. PART E (p39) PART H (p44)

26
 PART C – MODULE ALIGNMENT MATRIX
MODULE ALIGNMENT
Introduction to Information Systems (IFS 132) – Department of Information Systems
MAIN LEARNING OUTCOMES *GRADUATE
LEARNING ATTRIBUTES
OUTCOMES ASSESSMENT
At the successful By the end of this module TOPIC TEACHING ACTIVITIES TASKS
completion of this students should be able
module the to: 1 2 3 4 5 6
student should:
Demonstrate the role LO1: Demonstrate an - An introduction to information - Interactive lectures, - Formative assessment
that Information understanding of the * * * * * * systems in organisations - selected videos played in class, (Term Tests & Quizzes)
Systems play in fundamental concepts and - Hardware and software - well designed and colour coded slides, - Summative assessment
different functions of Information - Database systems and - tutorials and tutorial exercises, (Exam)
organisations Systems applications - discussion forum on iKamva, - Tutorial exercises
- Telecommunications and - case studies discussed in class,
networks - chapter questions for self-evaluation,
- Electronic & mobile - self- and group reflection and
commerce and enterprise - consultation with the lecturer
systems
- Information and decision
support systems
- Knowledge management and
specialized information
systems
- Pervasive systems
- Security, privacy, and ethical
issues (Self-study – not
included in the exam)
Explain the role that LO2: Use available - Hardware and software - Interactive lectures, - Formative assessment
technology has in technology effectively and * * * * * * - selected videos played in class, (Term Tests & Quizzes)
relation to the efficiently in organisations - well designed and colour coded slides, - Summative assessment
functioning of an - tutorials and tutorial exercises, (Exam)
Information System - discussion forum on iKamva, - Tutorial exercises
- case studies discussed in class,
- chapter questions for self-evaluation,
- self- and group reflection and
- consultation with the lecturer
LO3: Use database - Database systems and - Interactive lectures, - Formative assessment
technology effectively and * * * * * applications - selected videos played in class, (Term Tests & Quizzes)
efficiently to locate, retrieve, - well designed and colour coded slides,

27
 create and manage - tutorials and tutorial exercises, - Summative assessment
information relevant to the - discussion forum on iKamva, (Exam)
information in an organisation - case studies discussed in class, - Tutorial exercises
- homework exercises,
- chapter questions for self-evaluation,
- self- and group reflection and
- consultation with lecturer
LO4: Demonstrate an - Telecommunications and - Interactive lectures, - Formative assessment
understanding of concepts * * * * * * networks - selected videos played in class, (Term Tests & Quizzes)
related to telecommunication - well designed and colour coded slides, - Summative assessment
and networks - tutorials and tutorial exercises, (Exam)
- discussion forum on iKamva, - Tutorial exercises
- case studies discussed in class, - Group Assignment
- chapter questions for self-evaluation, - Peer Assessment
- self- and group reflection and
- consultation with the lecturer
-students are given a demonstration in
class, and tutors' assistance (all tutors are
shown how to use the software). The
software application, instructional videos
and step-by-step guides are all provided
to the student.
Identify various LO5: Examine the role that - Electronic & mobile - Interactive lectures, - Formative assessment
Business Information different types of Information * * * * * * commerce and enterprise - selected videos played in class, (Term Tests & Quizzes)
Systems Systems play within different systems - well designed and colour coded slides, - Summative assessment
types of organisations. - Information and decision - tutorials and tutorial exercises, (Exam)
support systems - discussion forum on iKamva, - Tutorial exercises
- Knowledge management and - case studies discussed in class, - Individual Assignment
specialized information - chapter questions for self-evaluation, - Practical tasks
systems - self- and group reflection and
- consultation with lecturer
-students are given a demonstration in
class, tutors' assistance (all tutors are
shown how to use the software). The
software application, instructional videos
and step-by-step guides are all provided
to the student.

* GRADUATE ATTRIBUTES 5. Ethically, environmentally and socially aware and active.

1. Interpersonal flexibility and confidence to engage across 6. Skilled communicators
difference.
2. Inquiry-focused and knowledgeable.
3. Critically relevant and literate.
4. Autonomous and collaborative

28
 PART D – TOPIC OUTLINE & EXPECTATIONS
CHAPTER 1 – AN INTRODUCTION TO INFORMATION SYSTEMS
CHAPTER 2 – INFORMATION SYSTEMS IN ORGANIZATIONS
CHAPTER 7 – OPERATIONAL SYSTEMS
CHAPTER 8 – MANAGEMENT INFORMATION AND DECISION SUPPORT SYSTEMS

Information systems are used in almost every imaginable profession. From small music stores to
huge multinational companies, businesses of all sizes cannot survive without information systems
to perform accounting and finance operations. Regardless of your college major or chosen career,
information systems are indispensable tools to help you achieve your career goals. Learning about
information systems can help you land your first job, earn promotions, and advance your career. We
begin this chapter by exploring the basics of information systems. The sections on hardware,
software, databases, telecommunications, e-commerce and m-commerce, transaction processing
and enterprise resource planning, information and decision support, special-purpose systems,
systems development, and ethical and social issues are explained in future classes.

The impact that computers have had on organizations cannot be overstated. Office work has been transformed
almost beyond all recognition, and many workers cannot operate without their computers. No matter what path your
career takes, you will almost certainly encounter information systems every day. Operational systems, such as
transaction processing systems (TPS), allow firms to buy and sell. Without systems to perform these functions, the
firm could not operate. Organizations today are moving from a collection of non-integrated transaction processing
systems to highly integrated enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems to perform routine business processes and
maintain records about them. Companies selling online need electronic- and mobile-commerce software to allow
customers to perform transactions. No matter what your role is, it is very likely that you will provide input to or use
the output from your organization’s systems. Your effective use of these systems will be essential to raise the
productivity of your firm, improve customer service and enable better decision-making. Thus, it is important that you
understand how these systems work and what their capabilities and limitations are.

We will lastly look at systems at the tactical and strategic levels. The true potential of information systems in
organizations is in helping employees make more informed decisions, something that is supported by both
management information and decision support systems.

OUTCOMES CHECKLIST
CHAPTER 1
1. Discuss why it is important to study and understand information systems.
2. Describe the characteristics used to evaluate the quality of data.
3. Name the components of an information system and describe several system characteristics.
4. Identify the basic types of business information systems (relates to the systems in chapters 7 & 8) and
discuss who uses them, how they are used and what kinds of benefits they deliver.
5. Identify the major steps of the systems development process and state the goal of each.
6. Describe some of the threats to security and privacy that information systems and the Internet can
impose.
7. Discuss the expanding role and benefits of information systems in business and industry.

CHAPTER 2
8. Describe the role of information systems within organizations.
9. Understand the effect of innovation
10. Provide a clear definition of ‘organizational change’ and discuss how these affect the implementation
of information systems.

CHAPTER 7
11. Identify the basic activities and business objectives common to all transaction processing systems.
12. Identify key control and management issues associated with transaction processing systems.
13. Describe the inputs, processing, and outputs for the transaction processing systems.
14. Define e- and m-commerce and describe various forms of e-commerce.
15. Identify the challenges multinational corporations must face in planning, building, and operating their
transaction processing systems.
16. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages associated with the implementation of an enterprise
resource planning system.

29
 CHAPTER 8
17. Define the stages of decision-making.
18. Discuss the importance of implementation and monitoring in problem-solving.
19. Explain the uses of MISs and describe their inputs and outputs.

o Inputs to MIS
DURATION o Outputs to MIS
Two weeks
o Characteristics MIS
✓ Decision Support Systems (DSS)
BREAK DOWN / WEEK o Characteristics DSS
Preparation 1h30min (3 x 30min) o Capabilities of DSS
- Text Book o Comparison of DSS and MIS
- Web ✓ Group Support Systems (GSS)
- Audio
o Characteristics of GSS
Class - Theory 2h15 (3 classes x 45min) ✓ Executive Support Systems (ESS)
- Tutorials 45min o Capabilities of ESS
- Practical 45min

Note-making/Self Study 1h15min

SOURCES
Stair, Reynolds & Chesney. Principles of BIS
Questions/Activities 30min Chapter 1 Page 3 - 32.
Chapter 2 Page 35 - 66.
Other (Consultations, etc.) 20min Chapter 7 Page 233 - 248, 249 - 255, 256 - 257.
Chapter 8 Page 265 - 274, 284 - 288.
TOTAL HOURS (7h20min)

CONTENT AUDIO/YOUTUBE
If an audio/multimedia file is available it
CHAPTER 1
✓ What is an Information System? can be accessed for revision purposes on
o What is a system? iKamva.
o What is information?
o What are Information Systems? QUESTIONS
o Characteristics of Valuable Info Complete the questions at the end of the
o Manual vs Computerised IS (CBIS) chapter (p 28 – 32; p 56; p 259 - 264 & p298
✓ Business Information Systems
- 300).
o Enterprise Systems (TPS & ERP) - BIS Pyramid
o MIS & DSS
o Knowledge Management, AI, Expert Systems and SELF REFLECTION
VR
✓ Systems Development CHAPTER 1
✓ IS in society, business, and industry
✓ Global Challenges
Discuss with a friend
Why is feedback important to managers and
decision-makers?
CHAPTER 2
✓ An introduction to organizations
o Organizational change By yourself
o Innovation 1. Classify each of the following as either data,
o Organizational change information, knowledge or forecasting:
• 20/05/2007
CHAPTER 7 • Bank statement
✓ Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) • Predicting hurricanes
o Advantages • 01101110
o Disadvantages 2. Explain the components of a system by providing a
o ERP for SME's descriptive drawing and explain how it can be applied
✓ Transaction Processing Systems (TPS) to a real-world situation.
o Processing methods and objectives 3. What is the difference between data, information &
o Processing activities knowledge? Use an example to explain your answer.
✓ Electronic- and mobile-commerce 4. Which characteristics of valuable information can be
✓ International issues applied to your ID number, issued by the Department
of Home Affairs? State your reason for each
CHAPTER 8 characteristic selected.
✓ Decision-making and problem solving 5. Look at the BIS pyramid (p13) and think of systems
o Programmed vs non-programmed decisions used at UWC that might fall under each of the levels.
o Optimization, satisficing and heuristics
o Sense and respond
o Big data
✓ Overview Management Information Systems (MIS)

30
CHAPTER 7
Discuss with a friend CHAPTER 8
1. Do you make use of online shopping? If not, what Discuss with a friend
are the factors preventing you from doing so? 1. Try to find examples of big data and explain the
2. Think of at least two situations where you will encounter importance of it.
structured and unstructured problems. 2. Why should executives invest in DSS? How can
DSS support them with their daily activities?
By yourself
1. Think about e- and m-commerce and how it is applied in By yourself
the South African context. 1. Think of examples where programmed and non-
2. Try to determine why South African companies are so slow programmed decisions take place.
in creating m-commerce sites. 2. Think of at least two situations where you will
3. In one of the slides, it is stated that the following is required encounter structured and unstructured problems.
for m-commerce to work effectively: 3. Make use of the models used by DSS (optimization,
• Interface between device and user should ensure satisficing & heuristics) and explain how a company,
an easy purchase with 1000 employees, could use each in order to
• Network speed should be fast conclude in buying tablets for all of their employees.
• Security is important 4. Ensure that you understand the following diagram and
• Transmission itself all the content related to it.
• Trust that the transaction is being made
Explain why each aspect should be addressed.
4. Explain how an ERP system would impact the daily
operations of the University.

FIGURE 8.2 Sources of managerial information

(p270)

31
CHAPTER 3 – HARDWARE: INPUT, PROCESSING, OUTPUT AND STORAGE DEVICES

Organizations invest in computer hardware and software to improve worker productivity, increase
revenue, reduce costs, and provide better customer service, speed up time-to-market and enable
collaboration among employees. Organization’s that don’t make wise hardware investments are
often stuck with outdated equipment that is unreliable and that cannot take advantage of the latest
software advances. Managers, no matter what their career field and educational background, are
expected to help define the business needs that the hardware must support.

OUTCOMES CHECKLIST
1. Describe the role of the central processing unit and main memory.
2. State the advantages of multiprocessing and parallel computing systems and provide examples of the
types of problems they address.
3. Describe the access methods, capacity, and portability of various secondary storage devices.
4. Identify and discuss the speed, functionality and importance of various input and output devices.
5. Identify the characteristics and discuss the usage of various classes of single-user and multi-user
computer systems.
6. Describe Moore’s Law and discuss its implications for future computer hardware developments.
7. Give an example of recent innovations in computer CPU chips, memory devices, and input/output
devices.
8. Define the term green computing and identify the primary goals of this program.
9. Identify several benefits of green computing initiatives that have been broadly adopted.

DURATION SOURCES
Two weeks Stair, Reynolds & Chesney. Principles of BIS
Chapter 3 Page 65 -113.
BREAK DOWN / WEEK
Preparation 1h30min (3 x 30min)
- Text Book
- Web AUDIO/YOUTUBE
- Audio If an audio/multimedia file is available it
can be accessed for revision purposes on
Class - Theory 2h15 (3 classes x 45min)
- Tutorials 45min iKamva.
- Practical 45min
QUESTIONS
Note-making/Self Study 1h15min Complete the questions at the end of the
Questions/Activities 30min chapter (p 105 - 110).

Other (Consultations, etc.) 20min SELF REFLECTION

Discuss with a friend
TOTAL HOURS (7h20min)
Why should we be concerned with green
computing?
CONTENT
✓ Computer Systems By yourself
o HW Components 1. What hardware is visible for the computers at the
✓ Processing and Memory devices library? Try to give a brief explanation for the purpose
o Processing Characteristics and functions of each device. Also determine whether it is an input or
o Memory Characteristics and functions output device.
o Multiprocessing 2. What new innovative approaches are in development to
o Parallel Computing uniquely identify a user of a device (Hardware-related)?
✓ Secondary Storage 3. We have learned about various combinations of
o Access Methods Operating systems, computers & users. Find examples
o Secondary Storage Devices for each of the four sections.
o Enterprise Storage Options 4. Why are 3D printers seen as a disruptive technology to
✓ I/O Devices many industries?
o Characteristics and functionality
o Input Devices
o Output Devices
✓ Computer System Types
o Portable Computers
o Nonportable Single-user computers
o Multi-user computers
✓ Green Computing

32
CHAPTER 4 – SOFTWARE: SYSTEMS AND APPLICATION SOFTWARE

Software is indispensable for any computer system and the people using it. With systems software,
computers would not be able to accept data input from a keyboard, process data, or display results.
Application software is one of the keys to helping achieve your career goals.

OUTCOMES CHECKLIST
1. Identify and briefly describe the functions of the two basic kinds of software.
2. Outline the role of the operating system and identify the features of several popular operating systems.
3. Discuss how application software can support personal, workgroup, and enterprise business objectives.
4. Identify three basic approaches to developing application software and discuss the pros and cons of
each.
5. Outline the overall evolution and importance of programming languages and clearly differentiate
between generations of programming languages.
6. Identify several key software issues and trends that have an impact on organizations and individuals.

o Evolution
DURATION o Visual, object-oriented, and AI languages
Two weeks
✓ Software issues and trends
o Software bugs
BREAK DOWN / WEEK o Copyrights and licences
Preparation 1h30min (3 x 30min) o Freeware and Open Source
- Text Book o Upgrades
- Web o Global support
- Audio

Class - Theory 2h15 (3 classes x 45min) SOURCES

- Tutorials 45min Stair, Reynolds & Chesney. Principles of BIS
- Practical 45min
Chapter 4 Page 115 -155.
Note-making/Self Study 1h15min

Questions/Activities 30min AUDIO/YOUTUBE

If an audio/multimedia file is available it
Other (Consultations, etc.) 20min can be accessed for revision purposes on
iKamva.
TOTAL HOURS (7h20min)

QUESTIONS
CONTENT Complete the questions at the end of the
✓ Hardware Components chapter (p 148 - 153).
✓ Overview of software
o Systems Software
o Application Software SELF REFLECTION
o Supporting Individual, Group & Organizational Goals Discuss with a friend
✓ Systems Software Which mobile applications can’t you live
o Operating Systems without, why are these applications so
o Current OS important?
o Workgroup OS
o Enterprise OS By yourself
o OS for small computers, embedded pc's & special 1. What software is available on the computers at the
purpose library? Categorise the software according to system or
o Utility programs application software.
o Middleware 2. What new innovative approaches are in development to
✓ Application Software uniquely identify a user of a device (Software-related)?
o Overview of application software 3. Why should one be careful in writing down passwords?
o Personal Application software Try and determine what makes for better, more secure
o Mobile Application software passwords.
o Workgroup Application software 4. What is open-source software? Draw up a comparative
o Enterprise Application software table comparing open-source software that students at
o Application software for Info, Decision support, and UWC could use vs paid-for software.
competitive advantage
✓ Programming Languages

33
CHAPTER 5 – ORGANIZING AND STORING DATA

A huge amount of data is entered into computer systems every day. Where does all this data go,
and how is it used? How can it help you in a job? This chapter examines database systems and how
they can help businesses. The chapter includes a brief overview of how to organize data in a
database looks at database administration and discusses how data can be used competitively by
studying both data mining and business intelligence.

OUTCOMES CHECKLIST
1. Define general data management concepts and terms, highlighting the advantages of the database
approach to data management.
2. Describe the relational database model and outline its basic features.
3. Identify the common functions performed by all database management systems and identify popular
database management systems.
4. Identify and briefly discuss current database applications.

DURATION AUDIO/YOUTUBE
Two weeks If an audio/multimedia file is available it
can be accessed for revision purposes on
BREAK DOWN / WEEK iKamva.
Preparation 1h30min (3 x 30min)
- Text Book
- Web
QUESTIONS
- Audio Complete the questions at the end of the
chapter (p 181 - 185).
Class - Theory 2h15 (3 classes x 45min)
- Tutorials 45min
- Practical 45min
SELF REFLECTION
Note-making/Self Study 1h15min By yourself
1. What is an attribute? How does it relate
Questions/Activities 30min to an entity?
2. Define the term “database”. How is it different
Other (Consultations, etc.) 20min
from a database management system?
3. What is a database schema, and what is its
TOTAL HOURS (7h20min)
purpose?
4. What is the difference between DDL & DML?
CONTENT 5. Create an ERD and corresponding database
✓ Data management and data modelling schema to explain the information saved in the
o Relationships between tables contacts section of your cell phone as well as the
o Designing relational databases
relationship between entities that you identified.
✓ Database Management Systems
o Creating and modifying the DB
o Storing and retrieving data Work through the following class activity with a
o Manipulating data and generating reports friend (see chapter slide for actual content)
o Database administration
o Selecting a DBMS
o Using DB's in other software
✓ DB Applications
o Linking DB's to the Internet
o Big data applications
o Data Warehouses
o Data mining
o Business Intelligence
o Distributed Databases
o OLAP
o Visual, audio and other DB Applications

SOURCES Ensure that you can:

Stair, Reynolds & Chesney. Principles of BIS • Identify the entities
Chapter 5 Page 157-185. • Determine the cardinality/optionality of the
relationships
• Which relationships will have both a primary as
well as foreign key?

34
CHAPTER 6 – COMPUTER NETWORKS

Nearly all career fields utilize the communications capabilities provided by telecommunications and
networks including the Internet, intranets, and extranets. To be a successful member of any
organization, you must be able to take advantage of the capabilities that communications
technologies offer you.

OUTCOMES CHECKLIST
1. Define the terms ‘communications’ and ‘telecommunications’ and describe the components of a
telecommunications system.
2. Identify several communications hardware devices and discuss their function.
3. Describe many of the benefits associated with a telecommunications network.
4. Define the term ‘communications protocols’ and identify several common ones.
5. Briefly describe how the Internet works, including alternatives for connecting to it and the role of Internet
Service Providers.
6. Describe the World Wide Web and the way it works.
7. Explain the use of web browsers, search engines, and other web tools.
8. Outline a process for creating web content.
9. Define the terms ‘intranet’ and ‘extranet’ and discuss how organizations are using them.

DURATION SOURCES
Two weeks Stair, Reynolds & Chesney. Principles of BIS
Chapter 6 Page 187 - 230.
BREAK DOWN / WEEK
Preparation 1h30min (3 x 30min)
- Text Book AUDIO/YOUTUBE
- Web If an audio/multimedia file is available it
- Audio
can be accessed for revision purposes on
Class - Theory 2h15 (3 classes x 45min) iKamva.
- Tutorials 45min
- Practical 45min
QUESTIONS
Note-making/Self Study 1h15min Complete the questions at the end of the
chapter (p 223 - 227).
Questions/Activities 30min

Other (Consultations, etc.) 20min SELF REFLECTION

Discuss with a friend
TOTAL HOURS (7h20min) What is your perception of cloud computing and
what are some security or ethical considerations
before participating with cloud computing?
CONTENT
✓ An Overview of Telecommunications By yourself
✓ Telecommunications 1. Create a concept/mind map to summarise the chapter.
o Channel Bandwidth Create sections for Telecommunications, Networks &
o Guided transmission media types Distributed Processing, Use and Functioning of the
o Wireless transmission media types Internet as well as The World Wide Web. Be sure to
o Telecommunications hardware include all subcategories and provide a sentence or two
✓ Networks and distributed processing indicating the purpose of each concept.
o Network types 2. How can wireless communications (NFC, Bluetooth,
o Distributed processing etc.) be used to make the daily lives of South Africans
o Client/server systems easier?
o Communications Software 3. Look for some examples regarding the implementation
o Virtual Private Networks of LiFi. Think about places in South Africa where it can
✓ The Internet be incorporated.
o How it works
✓ Internet Applications
o World Wide Web
o Email
o Telnet & FTP
o Cloud computing
✓ Intranets & Extranets

35
CHAPTER 9 – KNOWLEDGE MANAGEMENT & SPECIALISED SYSTEMS

Knowledge management systems are used in almost every industry. If you are a manager, you
might use a knowledge management system to support decisive action to help you correct a
problem. You will see many examples of using specialised information systems throughout the
chapter. Learning about these systems will help you discover new ways to use information systems
in your day-to-day work.

OUTCOMES CHECKLIST
1. List some of the tools and techniques used in knowledge management.
2. Define the term ‘Artificial Intelligence’ and state the objective of developing artificial intelligence systems.
3. List the characteristics of intelligence behaviour and compare the performance of natural and artificial
intelligence systems for each of these characteristics.
4. Identify the major components of the artificial intelligence field and provide one example of each type of
system.
5. When would one use an expert system?
6. Identify the benefits associated with the use of expert systems.
7. Define the term ‘virtual reality’ and provide three examples of virtual reality applications.
8. Discuss examples of specialised systems for organizational and individual use.

DURATION SOURCES
One week Stair, Reynolds & Chesney. Principles of BIS
Chapter 9 Page 305 - 334.
BREAK DOWN / WEEK
Preparation 1h30min (3 x 30min) AUDIO/YOUTUBE
- Text Book
- Web If an audio/multimedia file is available it
- Audio can be accessed for revision purposes on
iKamva.
Class - Theory 2h15 (3 classes x 45min)
- Tutorials 45min
- Practical 45min QUESTIONS
Complete the questions at the end of the
Note-making/Self Study 1h15min chapter (p 328 - 333).
Questions/Activities 30min
SELF REFLECTION
Other (Consultations, etc.) 20min Discuss with a friend
AI could potentially cause the extinction of many
TOTAL HOURS (7h20min) jobs. What do you think, we as humans need to
do to ensure that our skills stay relevant?
CONTENT
✓ KMS By yourself
o Overview KMS 1. Understand the difference between tacit and explicit
o Obtaining, storing, sharing and using knowledge knowledge.
o Technology to support knowledge management 2. How will artificial intelligence impact our lives in the near
✓ AI future? Think about such systems being built into new
o Nature of intelligence smartphones.
o Difference between natural and artificial intelligence 3. Robots are used in more and more environments.
o Major branches of AI Identify at least two new uses of robotics (these should
▪ Expert systems (basics) be relatively new). What are the dangers associated
▪ Robotics with robotics used within these environments?
▪ Vision Systems 4. Virtual reality is set to have a major impact on the
▪ NLP and voice recognition interaction that we as humans have with content. How
▪ Learning systems can virtual reality be used to make the lives of ordinary
▪ Neural networks South Africans easier?
▪ Other AI applications
✓ Expert Systems
o When to use expert systems
✓ VR
o Interface devices
o Forms of VR
o VR applications

36
CHAPTER 10 – PERVASIVE SYSTEMS

The move of information systems from the office into every aspect of our lives is well underway.
Many businesses are exploiting this to their advantage, as are their customers. In this chapter, we
examine some of the technologies that enable us to use systems on the go.

OUTCOMES CHECKLIST
1. Identify the range of devices that now incorporate computing power.
2. Describe the business benefits of mobile devices.
3. Discuss and evaluate the technologies that can be used to support teamwork when team members are
separated by time and/or space.
4. Describe how to select mobile systems to support business objectives.

DURATION o Advantages of e- and m-commerce

One week SOURCES
Stair, Reynolds & Chesney. Principles of BIS
BREAK DOWN / WEEK Chapter 10 Page 335 - 363.
Preparation 1h30min (3 x 30min)
- Text Book
- Web AUDIO/YOUTUBE
- Audio If an audio/multimedia file is available it
can be accessed for revision purposes on
Class - Theory 2h15 (3 classes x 45min) iKamva.
- Tutorials 45min
- Practical 45min
QUESTIONS
Note-making/Self Study 1h15min Complete the questions at the end of the
Questions/Activities 30min chapter (p 356 - 360).

Other (Consultations, etc.) 20min SELF REFLECTION

Discuss with a friend
TOTAL HOURS (7h20min)
What are your views on wearable technology?

CONTENT By yourself
✓ An Introduction to Electronic Commerce 1. Identify at least 5 different examples of wearable
✓ Wireless Internet Access technology.
✓ Mobile devices 2. What is GPS and why has it become an integral part of
o Smartphone our daily lives?
o Wearable technology 3. What are different examples of e-money?
o E-money 4. Find 2 examples of personal robotics or virtual pets.
o Tangible media Write a short summary about the purpose and functions
o Personal robotics that each offer.
o Virtual pets CSCW is a concept that emerged due to global
✓ Computer Supported Cooperative Work collaborations. How can this be used to enable students
o Videoconferencing from different universities to work together on projects?
o Messaging 5. Identify at least 2 more advantages that companies
o Interactive Whiteboards might experience when they make use of e- and m-
o Wikis commerce.
o MMOG's
o Blogs and Podcasts
✓ Mobile applications of e- and m-commerce
o Retail and Wholesale
o Manufacturing
o Marketing
o Auctions
o Anywhere, anytime applications of m-commerce

37
CHAPTER 13 – SECURITY, PRIVACY, AND ETHICAL ISSUES IN INFORMATION SYSTEMS
(SELF STUDY)

In this chapter, we will look at the FOUR main factors you need to understand when working through
how this topic covers management information systems and decision support systems and how
crucial these are to run an effective business.

OUTCOMES CHECKLIST
1. Describe some examples of waste and mistakes in an IS environment, their causes, and possible
solutions.
2. Identify policies and procedures useful in eliminating waste and mistakes.
3. Discuss the principles and limits of an individual’s right to privacy.
4. Explain the types and effects of computer crime.
5. Identify specific measures to prevent computer crime.
6. List the important effects of computers on the work environment.
7. Identify specific actions that must be taken to ensure the health and safety of employees.
8. Outline criteria for the ethical use of information systems.

DURATION SOURCES
One week Stair, Reynolds & Chesney. Principles of BIS
Chapter 13 Page 449 - 482.
BREAK DOWN / WEEK
Preparation 1h30min (3 x 30min) AUDIO/YOUTUBE
- Text Book
- Web If an audio/multimedia file is available it
- Audio can be accessed for revision purposes on
iKamva.
Class - Theory 3h (3 classes x 1h)
- Tutorials 1h
QUESTIONS
Note-making/Self Study 1h Complete the questions at the end of the
chapter (p 474 - 479).
Questions/Activities 30min

Other (Consultations, etc.) 20min SELF REFLECTION

Discuss with a friend
TOTAL HOURS (7h20min) Have you been a victim of a computer crime? For
example, you experienced that your information
CONTENT has been taken/used without your consent or your
files being damaged through a virus attack?
✓ Computer waste and mistakes
o Prevention
✓ Computer crime By yourself
✓ Prevention 1. What can we do to minimise computer waste in
o By state South Africa? Do you think enough has been
o By organizations done? Write a ½ page reflection on the topic.
o By individuals 2. What can we as computer users do to ensure that
o Using intrusion detection software we don’t fall victim to identity theft?
o Using managed security service providers (MSSPs) 3. Differentiate between:
o Preventing crime on the Internet - Virus
✓ Privacy - Worm
o Privacy and the government - trojan
o at work
o email privacy 4. Find at least 3 examples of computer scams that
o Internet privacy have taken place recently. Explain each one
o Fairness of Info use briefly.
o Individual efforts to protect privacy 5. The overuse of computers and mobile devices has
✓ The work environment a negative effect on us as human beings. What
o Health concerns can be done to inform people to take their health
o Avoiding Health and Environmental Problems and safety more seriously? Create a small
✓ Ethical issues in IS pamphlet with tips that can be distributed amongst
your fellow students.

38
 PART E – LAYOUT TO USE FOR REPORTS
LAYOUT OF REPORT FOR ASSIGNMENTS
1. Cover page Ensure that your name, surname, student number, date, lecturer’s name,
tutor’s name, and tutorial period are all clearly printed on the cover page. Be
sure to insert the “anti-plagiarism” declaration and sign it before hand-in. It
is preferred that you use the cover page found on iKamva. Remember to
also include the date of submission.
2. Table of contents Generate the Table of Contents automatically using the built-in MS Word
function. Follow the following procedure:
Firstly, identify the text that you want to appear in the Table of Contents
from your content, highlight it before applying a heading style.
o On the ‘Home’ tab, in the ‘Styles’ group, click the Heading 1 option.
o In the same way, apply the Heading 1 style to other major headings
in your document.
o Apply the Heading 2 style to sub-headings, Heading 3 style to sub-
sub-headings, etc.
Choose ‘References’ > ‘Table of Contents’
Choose ‘Automatic Table 2’ from the menu. Your table of content will
be inserted automatically to content control.
3. Introduction Provide a brief overview of the topic, clearly stating the purpose of the report
and providing a concise outline or overall plan of development for the rest of
the report.
4. Procedure / Method By using relevant headings (two levels e.g. 4.1) clearly illustrate the main
of gathering topics and areas of discussion. This section of the report should describe
information the method or procedure you followed to collect the information to answer
the questions in each task.
5. Findings This section of your report should focus on answering the questions
presented in each task (above). It should contain the actual information you
have collected based on your research. Be sure to explain your answers in
detail and motivate/justify your views.
6. Conclusion Illustrate your understanding of the topic by summing up the key points
discussed in the body of the report and clearly state your opinion.
7. Recommendations What are your suggested/recommended solutions to the challenges faced
in the case study and presented to you in the questions for the task? These
recommendations should be based on your Findings and Conclusion.
Always justify your views.
8. References Use the APA referencing style for in-text and reference list, for all the sources
of the information used in your report.
9. Originality report After you submit your report on www.Turnitin.com, you need to print the
Originality report (not the digital receipt) and add it to the report
10. Printed copy of the Print a copy of the rubric provided for the task and attach it to your
rubric for tutor assignment before submission. Your tutor will use this to provide you with
feedback.
11. Appendices If any are necessary ensure that you label them clearly as Appendix A, B, C,
etc.

Assignment format: font size 11 and font type “Arial” and 1, 5 line-spacing, with margins of 2.54 CMs on all sides
for pages, justify body text. Hand-written work will not be marked.

39
 PART F – ICON LIBRARY
The following set of images appear throughout this guide, the slides, as well as in tutorial and assignment
specifications. Please ensure that you know what is expected from you for the indicated activity.
Outcomes checklist
At the beginning of each unit there is a list of learning outcomes. These outcomes indicate what you
should know and must be able to do after the completion of the unit.

Read a reference/Additional sources

This symbol will indicate what you have to read and learn from your textbook or other sources.
Reference to additional text/paper sources.

Notes
Read the notes in the blocks indicated by this symbol. These notes will give you important
information.

WWW links
These blocks will contain hyperlinks to websites where you can find useful/more information on a
particular subject that relates to the unit.

\
Questions
You will come across these questions throughout the modules. These questions are applicable to
the work you have just completed. Try to answer them.

Answers to short questions

This symbol indicates the answers to short questions that appeared throughout the modules.

Check your progress

When you see this symbol you must check yourself against the list of outcomes provided at the
beginning of the module. When you feel that you have accomplished all the outcomes, you can
complete the quizzes for that particular unit. You will find these quizzes on the subject on-line page.

Assignments
This symbol indicates assignments that you will have to hand in as part of your assessment. Check
the assignment schedule for the dates of submission.

Work on the computer

This symbol will be displayed whenever you need to carry out work on the computer.

Hints
The notes in the blocks indicated by this symbol contain special hints for future/current use.

40
Time
This symbol indicates that there is a specific amount of time allocated to the completion of the given
task.

Date
This symbol indicates the date when an assignment must be submitted or when a class test/
evaluation will take place.

Audio/Video
This is an indication that extra work has been assigned in this specific work area, e.g., watching a
video; listening to a guest speaker; watching a slide show, etc.

Self-study
This is an indication that the mentioned work will not be done in class but must be done by the
student as extra work. The student can expect to be evaluated on this self-study material.

Enrichment activities
This symbol is an indication that the mentioned work is not compulsory, but only for self-enrichment
purposes.

Self-tests
These are tests that are given so that the student can evaluate him-/herself. They do not count for
evaluations and are not marked by the lecturer.

Group work
This activity is not for individual work and must be done in a group context.

Exercise
The activity indicated by this symbol is the homework given to students in order to enable them to
apply the work done in class and to target difficult aspects.

Example
This indicates a practical explanation of the theory work done in class.

Presentation
The activity indicated by this symbol is the homework given to students in order to enable them to
present work and communicate effectively with others.

Content
The following topics will be covered in class.

Reflection
Think about how the following topics/questions relate to or influence the work explained in class.

41
 PART G – LIST OF EXPLANATORY WORDS
The following list of words will assist you in answering questions in tests, assignments, homework,
or exams. Please ensure that you get familiarised with them.

Analyse Separate/divide into parts or elements, describe comprehensively, and

comment.
Apply Show the application of acquired knowledge or given information in practice,
or in relation to what is asked. Use knowledge to find an answer to the
question.
Classify Arrange information in categories
Comment Give your own opinion regarding the subject matter and illustrate it through
examples. Interpret and evaluate.
Compare Contrast facts, events, or problems and indicate the similarities and
differences, or analyse the similarities and differences between statements,
ideas, etc.
Contrast Emphasise the differences, contrasts, and anomalies of facts or events by
using analysis, discussion, and examples.

Correct Identify and remedy mistakes, identify false statements and correct them.
Criticise Judge the credibility of given facts or viewpoints and discuss the positive and
negative elements of a statement, by giving and
motivating your own opinion.
Define Give a clear, to the point, systematic and authoritative
explanation/description of concepts, to reflect the precise meaning thereof.

Demonstrate Explain by using a sketch, model, picture or graph, or a concrete subject. It

Or Indicate may also imply a well-thought-out and well-formulated description.

Derive Form an opinion from the above-mentioned or given information.

Describe Give the characteristics/basic facts/results in a logical, systematic, and well-

structured manner.
Design Create a plan. Portray by means of illustrations or concrete artefacts. Create
a model with a specific objective in mind and indicate the planning phase.

Discuss Analyse the matter carefully by discussing different aspects in logical

arguments. Compare, contrast, and debate.
Distinguish Show the difference and give the distinguishing characteristics.

Evaluate Assess based on specific points of reference or criteria and give your own
opinion. Do not describe. Personal viewpoints may be given.
Explain Give a clear explanation/exposition. Support the argument by means of
examples and/or illustrations and give reasons for statements or results.

Give an outline Give a framework consisting of main facts and relevant information in
support of these facts. It is not necessary to write down a detailed discussion.

Identify Reproduce the essential characteristics/main facts.

42
Illustrate Use a sketch, picture, diagram, graph or concrete item to explain a
concept/solve a problem. It can also mean to give examples in well-chosen,
descriptive words.
Interpret Comment on available facts, relating to applicable examples. Give a clear
indication of your own interpretation.
Investigate Analyse the facts/divide into sections and give a critical discussion.
Modify Prove, give reasons, activate and comment.
Predict Process the information (given/acquired) to reach relevant/applicable
conclusion.
Propose Give a relevant answer/recommendation.

Re-arrange Re-divide into new/different classes, groups, types, or characteristics. The

information is generally provided in the paper.
Show relations Show by using analysis, discussion and examples how different facts are
interrelated, or correspond to one another.
Sketch - Give a summary of main features logically divided into main facts & sub-
sections
- Provide a graphical representation, graph, flow diagram, map, etc.
Summarise Give a resume of the most important facts without detail, illustrations, critical
analysis or discussion.
Use Make use of info or subject(s) supplied to illustrate/explain specific viewpoint.

Write an essay Supply the information in a logical and well-structured manner.

43
 PART H – WEEKLY INTERACTIONS & DETAILED PLANNER
WEEKLY INTERACTIONS

Self-guided video lectures are scheduled on the iKamva System. Students need to work through the Pre-recorded PowerPoint presentations during
these times.
Lectures & Practicals

Group 1 (Lecturer: Dr. Mziwoxolo Mayedwa) Group 3 (Lecturer: Erlo Keynel)

Group 2 (Lecturer: Avuyile Naki) Practicals – All groups (Lecturer: Sarel Viljoen)

44
Tutorial slots (as per the registered group on iKamva – Site info)

45
 Consultations Slots
NB: Please consult with your tutors on regular basis so that you do not fall behind and take note of all due dates for the assessments. Please refer to iKamva
for the latest consulting times (Click Here).

46
DETAILED PLANNER JULY
Week Day Date Lectures/Activities Activity/Assessment Due
Sunday 23
Monday 24 Lectures Tutorials Practical
Tuesday 25 Face 2 face NB: Start in week 2 NB: Start in week 2 Complete IFS132 module
Chapters 1, 2, 7 & 8 - An expectation survey on iKamva
Wednesday 26 Introduction to IS, IS in Org & (Click Here) – due Saturday
Thursday 27 Various Systems 29 July, before 23h55
(More info)
Group 1
Monday P4 (DL1)
Tuesday P5 (GH1)
Wednesday P7 (GH1)
1 Group 2
Monday P7 (SC1)
Friday 28 Tuesday P2 (SC1)
Wednesday P1 (L20)
Group 3 Please join one of the groups
Tuesday P1 (SC1) as indicated on iKamva – Site
Wednesday P4 (SC1) info (Click Here)– due
Friday P2 (B2) Saturday 29 July, before
• Pre-recorded lectures are available on iKamva (Click Here) 23h55
• Check all Announcements on iKamva (Click Here)
Saturday 29
JULY/AUGUST
Week Day Date Lectures/Activities Activity/Assessment Due
Sunday 30
Monday 31 Lectures Tutorials Practical
Self-guided Online Face 2 Face
Tuesday 1 Chapters 1, 2, 7 & 8 - An Tutorial 0 – Get to know your Practical activity 1

2 Wednesday
Thursday
2
3
Introduction to IS, IS in Org &
Various Systems (catch up &
make notes)
tutor & What is the expectations
for tutorials
(More info)

Please note that tutors are Group 1

Friday 4 available for consultation during Thursday P3 (GH1)
the week – please refer to the

47
 tutor consultation timetable if Group 2
you need assistance. Thursday P5 (A1)
Group 3
Thursday P6 (L20)
Saturday 5

AUGUST
Week Day Date Lectures/Activities Activity/Assessment Due
Quiz – Chapter 1, 2, 7 & 8 -
Sunday 6 due before 23h55 (3 attempts
allowed)
Monday 7 Lectures Tutorials Practical
Face 2 face Online Self-guided Practical activity 1
Tuesday 8 Chapter 3 – Hardware: Input, Tutorial 1 – Systems Thinking (catch up & make notes)

3 Wednesday
Thursday
9
10
processing, output & storage
devices)
(More info)
9 – Women’s Day
Friday 11 (Theory classes missed on Wednesday will be delivered the next week Monday/Tuesday as per group period)
(Tutorial sessions missed on Wednesday will be conducted the next day during lunch time)
Saturday 12
AUGUST
Week Day Date Lectures/Activities Activity/Assessment Due
Sunday 13
Monday 14 Lectures Tutorials Practical
Self-guided Online Face 2 Face
Tuesday 15 Assignment – Get assignment &
Chapter 3 – Hardware: Input, Practical activity 2
Wednesday 16 processing, output & storage tutor explain the requirements (More info) Tutorial 1 (submit under

4 Thursday 17 devices (catch up & make

notes)
for all 3 phases
a. Assignment report
(individual)
assignments - iKamva)
Due date: Wed 16 August
(due before 23h55)
b. Website (group)
Friday 18
c. Report (group)

Saturday 19
AUGUST

48
Week Day Date Lectures/Activities Activity/Assessment Due
Quiz – Chapter 3 - due before
Sunday 20 23h55
(3 attempts allowed)
Monday 21
Lectures Tutorials Practical
Tuesday 22
5 Wednesday 23
Face 2 face
Chapter 4 – Software: Systems &
application software
Online
Tutorial Discussion – APA &
report rubric
Self-guided Practical
activity 2 (catch up & make
notes)
Thursday 24
(More info)
Friday 25
Saturday 26
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER
Week Day Date Lectures/Activities Activity/Assessment Due
Quiz – Practical activity 2 -
Sunday 27 due before 23h55 (3 attempts
allowed)
Monday 28
Lectures Tutorials Practical
Tuesday 29
Self-guided Online Face 2 Face
6 Wednesday 30 Chapter 4 – Software: Systems &
application software
Tutorial 2 – Hardware &
Software
Practical activity 3
(More info)
Thursday 31
(catch up & make notes)
Friday 1
Submit assignment report -
Saturday 2
due before 23h55
SEPTEMBER
Week Day Date Lectures/Activities Activity/Assessment Due
Quiz – Chapter 4 - due before
Sunday 3 23h55
(3 attempts allowed)
Monday -
Friday
4-8
BREAK
Saturday 9

49
 SEPTEMBER
Week Day Date Lectures/Activities Activity/Assessment Due
Sunday 10
Monday 11
Lectures Tutorials Practical
Tuesday 12 Tutorial 2 (submit under
Face 2 face Online Self-guided Practical
7 Wednesday
Thursday
13
14
Chapter 5 – Organizing & storing data
(More info)
Create groups, create site
design & start with website
activity 3 (catch up & make
notes)
assignments - iKamva)
Due date: Wed 13 Sep (before
23h55)
Friday 15
Saturday 16
SEPTEMBER
Week Day Date Lectures/Activities Activity/Assessment Due
Quiz – Practical activity 3 -
Sunday 17 due before 23h55 (3 attempts
allowed)
Monday 18 Lectures Tutorials Practical
Self-guided Online Face 2 Face
Tuesday 19
8 Wednesday 20
Chapter 5 – Organizing & storing data
(catch up & make notes)
Tutorial 3 – Databases Practical activity 4
(More info)
Thursday 21
TEST 1 (Chapters 1, 2, 7, 8, 3 & 4)
Friday 22 Friday 22 September - More info will be made available in class and on iKamva
Saturday 23
SEPTEMBER
Week Day Date Lectures/Activities Activity/Assessment Due
Quiz – Chapter 5 - due before
Sunday 24 23h55
(3 attempts allowed)
Monday 25
9 Tuesday 26
Lectures
Face 2 face
Chapter 6 – Networks
Tutorials
Online
Discuss website rubric
Practical
Self-guided Practical
activity 4 (catch up & make
Tutorial 3 (submit under
assignments - iKamva)
Wednesday 27 Due date: Wed 27 Sep (before
(More info) notes)
23h55)
Thursday 28

50
 24/25 – Heritage Day
Friday 29 (Theory classes missed on Monday will be delivered the next week Monday as per group period)
(Tutorial sessions missed on Monday will be conducted the next day during lunch time)
Submit Website - due before
Saturday 30
23h55
OCTOBER
Week Day Date Lectures/Activities Activity/Assessment Due
Quiz – Practical activity 4 -
Sunday 1 due before 23h55 (3 attempts
allowed)
Monday 2
Tuesday 3 Lectures Tutorials Practical
10 Wednesday 4
Self-guided
Chapter 6 – Networks
Online
Tutorial 4 – Networks
Face 2 Face
Practical activity 5
Thursday 5 (catch up & make notes) (More info)
Friday 6
Submit presentation - due
Saturday 7
before 23h55
OCTOBER
Week Day Date Lectures/Activities Activity/Assessment Due
Quiz – Chapter 6 - due before
Sunday 8 23h55
(3 attempts allowed)
Monday 9
Lectures Tutorials Practical Tutorial 4 (submit under
Tuesday 10
11 Wednesday 11
Face 2 face
Chapter 9 – Knowledge management
& Specialised Information Systems
Tutorials concluded – go to
any tutor consultation period
if assistance is required
Self-guided Practical
activity 5 (catch up & make
notes)
assignments - iKamva)
Due date: Wed 11 Oct (before
23h55)
Thursday 12
(More info)
Friday 13
Saturday 14
OCTOBER
Week Day Date Lectures/Activities Activity/Assessment Due

51
 Quiz – Practical activity 5 -
due before 23h55 (3 attempts
allowed)
Sunday 15
Quiz – Chapter 9 - due before
23h55
(3 attempts allowed)
Monday 16 Lectures Tutorials Practical
Face 2 face Tutorials concluded – go to Practicals concluded,
Tuesday 17 Chapter 10 – Pervasive Computing any consultation period if however this period will be
Wednesday 18 (More info) assistance is required used for test
12 Thursday 19
preparation/questions.

Group 1
Thursday P3 (GH1)
Group 2
Friday 20 Thursday P5 (A1)
Group 3
Thursday P6 (L20)

TEST 2 (Chapters 5, 6, 9 &10)

Saturday 21
Saturday 21 October - More info will be made available in class and on iKamva
OCTOBER
Week Day Date Lectures/Activities Activity/Assessment Due
Quiz – Chapter 10 - due
Sunday 22 before 23h55

13 Monday 23 All module related work concluded – please note that because this is a CA only module that there will be
(3 attempts allowed)

Tuesday 24 no exam conducted for it. Good luck with your other exams.

52