Course Title: Locate equipment, system and software faults

Part B: Course Detail

Teaching Period: Term2 2011

Course Code: COSC5438C

Course Title: Locate equipment, system and software faults

School: 155T Vocational Health and Sciences

Campus: City Campus

Program: C4293 - Certificate IV in Information Technology (Networking)

Course Contact: Geoff Moss

Course Contact Phone: +61 3 9925 4852

Course Contact Email: geoff.moss@rmit.edu.au


Name and Contact Details of All Other Relevant Staff

Dalija Beganovic
Phone 03 9925 4664
Email dalija.beganovic@rmit.edu.au

Alex Buono
Email alex.buono@rmit.edu.au


Nominal Hours: 20

Regardless of the mode of delivery, represent a guide to the relative teaching time and student effort required to successfully achieve a particular competency/module. This may include not only scheduled classes or workplace visits but also the amount of effort required to undertake, evaluate and complete all assessment requirements, including any non-classroom activities.

Pre-requisites and Co-requisites

Not Applicable

Course Description

This unit defines the competency required to apply systematic principles to fault finding in any field of IT.


National Codes, Titles, Elements and Performance Criteria

National Element Code & Title:

ICAT4221B Locate equipment, system and software faults

Element:

1. Choose the most appropriate fault finding method

1.1 Analyse and document the system that requires troubleshooting
1.2 Identify and apply specifically designed troubleshooting tools for thesystem
1.3 Investigate and record generic cyclic fault finding tools
1.4 Obtain required specialist tools appropriate to the work

Performance Criteria:

 

Element:

2. Analyse the problem to be solved

2.1 Collect all data relevant to the system as well as signs andsymptoms of the problem
2.2 Organise the collected data to enable an understanding of thestatus of the system
2.3 Analyse the data to determine that there is a problem, and thenature of the problem

Performance Criteria:

 

Element:

3. Define the causes of the problem and create a plan of action

3.1 Create a list of probable causes of the problem
3.2 Organise causes in order of likelihood
3.3 Formulate a solution or rectification
3.4 Rectify probable causes, testing for the success of the solution and record results

Performance Criteria:

 

Element:

4. Review problem and system status

4.1 Test the system to ensure the problem has been solved and recordresults
4.2 Document the problem, its signs and symptoms, and the ultimatesolution and load to database of problems/solutions for future reference

Performance Criteria:

 


Learning Outcomes




Details of Learning Activities

Mode of delivery can include online, classroom and workplace learning.
You will participate in learning activities such as:
Case studies
Videos
Collaborative classroom activities
Peer interaction
Simulations

Hands-on labs and Virtual Laptop and Virtual Desktop learning tools help students develop critical thinking and complex problem-solving skills
Interactive assessments provide immediate feedback to support the evaluation of knowledge and acquired skills
Reflection and discussion
Accessing and researching information on-line 
Workplace activities
Investigating issues in your workplace

The materials you require for this course are on MyRMIT and you may be required to read the course notes and any information provided online previous to attending each class. Your teacher will inform you of what is required for each class.

Participants are required read the units course notes and any information provided on the RMIT Learning Hub. Participants are also required to study the online materials from the following website: http://www.cisco.com/web/learning/netacad/index.html


Teaching Schedule

 Co-requisites
ICAS4127B Support system software
ICAI4029C Install network hardware to a network

 

Dates Contents Resources
 Topic 1  Introduction to the Personal Computer

 http://cisco.netacad.net

Class Notes

Topic 2  Safe Lab Procedures and Tool Use  http://cisco.netacad.net
Class Notes
Topic 3  Computer Assembly – Step by Step  http://cisco.netacad.net
Class Notes
 Topic 4  Basics of Preventive Maintenance and Troubleshooting  http://cisco.netacad.net
Class Notes
Topic 5  Fundamental Operating Systems  http://cisco.netacad.net
Class Notes
Topic 6  Fundamental Laptops and Portable Devices  http://cisco.netacad.net
Class Notes
Topic 7  Fundamental Printers and Scanners  http://cisco.netacad.net
Class Notes
Topic 8  Fundamental Networks  http://cisco.netacad.net
Class Notes
Topic 9  Fundamental Security  http://cisco.netacad.net
Class Notes
Topic 10  Communication Skills  http://cisco.netacad.net
Class Notes
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     


Learning Resources

Prescribed Texts

CISCO On-line Materials (IT Essentials 1), Course Notes


References


Other Resources

Web Resource

Online Material (Cisco Networking Academy) http://www.cisco.com/web/learning/netacad/index.html
RMIT Learning Hub
http://www.rmit.edu.au/students - Login to myRMIT

Online learning materials can be accessed by going into the RMIT web site Online Learning Hub. The online learning materials listed under each topic include:
• Subject outlines
• Lecture notes
• Reading materials
• Activities

Further online learning materials are available and include:
• Useful external links
• Learning Lab


Overview of Assessment

Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit.
Assessment must confirm the ability to choose the best fault finding method for a situation/scenario, and apply it in a structured, methodical manner.

Assessment occurs throughout the program and includes learning and assessment activities conducted in the classroom, online and in the workplace giving you the opportunity to practice and be assessed on what you are learning in a work context. You must demonstrate an understanding of all elements of a particular competency to be deemed competent. Assessment methods have been designed to measure achievement of each competency in a flexible manner over a range of assessment tasks.

Assessment will incorporate a variety of methods including technical requirements, documentation, workplace activities, in class exercises, quizzes, practical problem solving exercises and presentations. Participants are advised that they are likely to be asked to personally demonstrate their assessment work to their teacher to ensure that the relevant competency standards are being met.

If you have a long term medical condition and/or disability it may be possible to negotiate to vary aspects of the learning or assessment methods. You can contact the program coordinator or the Disability Liaison Unit if you would like to find out more.


Assessment Tasks

Overview of assessment tasks

1. Theoretical knowledge (On-line Chapter Exams) – 20%
With each chapter, you are required to complete an On-line Exam
2. Labs (Lab Manual) – 10%
There will be a series of labs throughout the course. You will complete these labs and record your observations in your lab worksheets. You MUST complete all indicated labs in conjunction with your work in each chapter.
3. Skills test -20%
A hands-on practical assessment at the end of the course that measures lab techniques and knowledge.
4. Comprehensive Final On-Line Examination – 50%

The participant must demonstrate an understanding of all elements of a particular competency to be deemed competent. Assessment methods have been designed to measure achievement of each competency in a flexible manner over a range of assessment tasks.

A detailed assessment sheet will be distributed in class.


Assessment Matrix

A detailed assessment rubric will be provided in class.

Other Information

Competency based training
This nationally recognised vocational education and training (VET) qualification is competency-based.
This means that it is designed to enable you to develop the practical skills and knowledge (competency) needed to perform the duties and tasks in the job you are training for.
Assessment in a competency-based program is about being able to demonstrate that you have developed these practical skills and areas of knowledge, and that you can perform at the standard required in the job. This could involve showing an assessor how you plan and carry out tasks, and explaining to the assessor how you know what you are doing. It could also involve completing a project and presenting a report on the process and outcomes. If you are working, your work supervisor may provide the assessor with a report on your competency.
If you have already developed areas of skill and knowledge included in this program (e.g. through prior paid or voluntary work experience), you can be assessed and have these skills and knowledge formally recognised at any point during the program. There is information on the RMIT University website about how to apply for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) – refer to http://www.rmit.edu.au/students/enrolment/credit/tafe

Work integrated learning (WIL)
RMIT University is committed to providing you with an education that strongly links formal learning with professional or vocational practice. As a student enrolled in this RMIT University program you will:
• undertake and be assessed on structured activities that allow you to learn, apply and demonstrate your professional or vocational practice;
• interact with industry and community when undertaking these activities
• complete these activities in a real work contexts or situations; and in addition
• these interactions and the work contexts provide distinctive sources of feedback to you to assist your learning.
Any or all of these aspects of a WIL experience may be simulated.
If you are working, particularly in a job which is related to your studies you will also be learning while at work and may have the opportunity to be assessed in your workplace for some or all of your courses. Feedback from work supervisors and others in the workplace can be used as evidence of competency, and an RMIT University assessor can visit your workplace to observe your work practice.


Teacher contact
Out of class communication to all participants will occur using participant email. It is essential that you check your email prior to attending each class.
Consultation times will be made available to you. Consultations may also be arranged via email.

Self managed learning
Participants will be required to undertake research and assessment outside of regular class times. Exercises are provided to the participants to facilitate their learning in a self-paced manner and form part of the overall achievement of the competencies in this course. Participants are reminded that they are expected to spend an equal amount of time outside of class, furthering their understanding of the concepts being taught, as they do in class to be deemed competent in this course.

Course evaluation & feedback
Feedback on the course itself is welcome at any time to your facilitator or course coordinator. Periodic course evaluation surveys are also conducted.

Submission of written work/assessment
All of your written assessment must be lodged by the due date in the format specified for the particular assessment task. Assessment must have a footer on each page containing: participant number, participant name, course code, title of assessment and teacher’s name.
You must keep a copy of your assignment/written work, which can be produced if the original is lost or damaged.

Non and late submission of work
If you do not attempt an assessment or meet an assessment deadline and have not been granted Special Consideration, you will not receive a mark for the assessment.
Please note: If you fail an assessment you will be given more that one chance to pass that assessment.
Special consideration information http://www.rmit.edu.au/browse;ID=ai33t2efhuti (unresolved)

Academic integrity
Academic Integrity is about honest presentation of your academic work. It means acknowledging the work of others while developing your own insights, knowledge and ideas.
All work produced must acknowledge the sources of ideas presented and cite the original written work which informed it.
You can achieve Academic Integrity by honestly submitting work that is your own. Presenting work that fails to acknowledge other people’s work within yours can compromise Academic Integrity.
This includes:
• plagiarism
• cheating in an exam
• copying or submitting whole or parts of computer files as if they are your own (eg webpages).
Information on Academic Integrity: http://www.rmit.edu.au/browse;ID=kkc202lwe1yv (unresolved)

Pathways
Pathways refer to related programs for which you may be eligible once you have graduated from your current program.
Upon successful completion of the Certificate IV in Information Technology Networking you may be eligible to undertake further studies in the Diploma … at RMIT University.

Library resources and services
As a student enrolled in a program at RMIT University you can access the extensive services, facilities and study space provided by the Library. You can access books, journals and other course related materials, such as DVDs, past exams, newspapers and e-books. Through our document delivery service you can also request items from any library in the world.
Computers for study are available at every Library site, where you can access the Internet, myRMIT (www.rmit.edu.au/myrmit) or Library e-resources. If you have a laptop you can access the RMIT University wireless network in the Library.

Library staff can show you how to find information for your assignments or you can work through web-based tutorials or use our online Ask a Librarian service.
The Library is continually expanding our electronic collections to make it easier for you to get the information you need when you need it. All RMIT University students have unlimited access to quality electronic resources such as, e-books, e-journals and newspapers.
You can find more information on Library resources and services at:
http://www.rmit.edu.au/library


Services available to you as a student at RMIT University
RMIT University provides a wide range of resources and opportunities to assist your learning and wellbeing so you can achieve your study and career goals.
Services are available face to face and online assisting with:
• transition to tertiary study and learning
• study skills, academic skills including literacy, mathematics and basic sciences if relevant
• enabling assistance if you have a disability, long term medical condition or other form of disadvantage which may impact on your learning
• career development and employment
• living and wellbeing (including advice on health, housing and financial matters)
• opportunities for scholarships, leadership and study abroad
• opportunities for participating in arts, sport, recreation, fitness activities as well as student activism and university governance

You can find more information at www.rmit.edu.au/students 

Course Overview: Access Course Overview