Course Title: Apply introductory object-oriented language skills

Part B: Course Detail

Teaching Period: Term1 2014

Course Code: COSC6113C

Course Title: Apply introductory object-oriented language skills

School: 650T TAFE Business

Campus: City Campus

Program: C5300 - Diploma of Information Technology

Course Contact : Radhu Punchanathan

Course Contact Phone: +61 3 99251409

Course Contact Email:radhu@rmit.edu.au


Name and Contact Details of All Other Relevant Staff

Michael Edwards
michael.edwards@rmit.edu.au

Nominal Hours: 60

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

None

Course Description

This course covers the competency required to undertake introductory programming tasks using an object-oriented programming language. Competency includes using existing tools, documentation, debugging and testing techniques in support of the programming activities.

This unit is delivered using a blend of classroom based and self-paced learning activities.


National Codes, Titles, Elements and Performance Criteria

National Element Code & Title:

ICAPRG406A Apply introductory object-oriented language skills

Element:

4. Document activities

Performance Criteria:

4.1 Follow organisational guidelines for developing maintainable code and adhere to the provided coding standards when documenting activities
4.2 Apply internal documentation to all code created and use documentation tools available in the target language when documenting activities

Element:

5. Test code

Performance Criteria:

5.1 Create and conduct simple tests to confirm code meets design specification
5.2 Document the tests performed and results achieved

Element:

3. Debug code

Performance Criteria:

3.1 Use an integrated development environment, in particular the language debugging facilities, to debug code
3.2 Interpret compiler or interpreter messages to resolve syntax errors and use debugging techniques to resolve logic errors

Element:

6. Create an application

Performance Criteria:

6.1 Develop a solution when provided with a basic object-oriented design document
6.2 Refer to appropriate documentation for the language

Element:

2. Apply basic object-oriented principles in the target language

Performance Criteria:

2.1 Implement a class that contains primitive member or instance variables
2.2 Implement a class that contains multiple options for object construction
2.3 Implement a class that uses user-defined aggregation (object instance or member variables)
2.4 Use the facilities provided in the language to implement inheritance to at least two levels of depth
2.5 Use polymorphism at a simple level through inheritance to enable easy extension of code

Element:

1. Apply basic language syntax and layout

Performance Criteria:

1.1 Demonstrate understanding and application of basic language syntax rules and best practices
1.2 Select and use language data types, operators and expressions to create clear and concise code
1.3 Use the appropriate language syntax for sequence, selection and iteration constructs
1.4 Use a modular programming approach within member or function logic
1.5 Apply arrays, including arrays of objects to introductory programming tasks
1.6 Use standard-array processing algorithms
1.7 Use the facilities of the language to read and write data from and to text files and record outcomes


Learning Outcomes



Details of Learning Activities

A range of learning activities are planned for this course including self-paced and collaborative classroom based activities.

 
The collaborative classroom based activities will include theory sessions, practical lab sessions, tutorial sessions, and out-of-class research and homework.


We expect you to participate and contribute in all scheduled learning activities. 


Teaching Schedule

 The nominal hours associated with this are a guide only and represent the total teaching time and student effort required to successfully complete the course. This may include not only scheduled classes but also the amount of effort required to undertake, evaluate and complete all assessment requirements, including any non-classroom activities.

Week

Week Commencing Topics Assessment
1 10th Feb 2014

Pre-training review:
• RPL
• LLN as required
Familiarisation with:
• Program
• Services/facilities
• Other students
• Teacher(s)
• Where to get support
• Student responsibilities
• Course requirements
• Course support documents
• Pre-reading
• Blackboard
Overview of assessment requirements:
• Grading
• Plagiarism
• Appeals
• Extensions
• Feedback
• Privacy
• Submission requirements
• Resubmission policy
Alice: Introduction to Object Oriented Programming 

 
2 17th Feb 2014 Introduction to Java and installing JDK, Introduction to and installing Textpad, Activities using Alice  
3 24th Feb 2014 Variables, datatypes and operators Java.  
4 3rd Mar 2014 Introduction to Object Oriented programming, classes, objects, attributes and methods  Assessment 1: Project specifications issued
5 10th Mar 2014 UML Class diagrams and more OOP concepts  Project draft check and feedback
6 17th Mar 2014 Project Submissions  Assessment 1: Project Stage 1 due
7 24th Mar 2014 Selection and repetition in Java  
8 31st Mar 2014 Input, Strings and API’s  
9 7th Apr 2014 Arrays and ArrayList  
10 14th Apr 2014 Inheritance, aggregation and polymorphis  
Mid-Semester EASTER Break - Friday 18th  April to Friday, 25th April 2014 inclusive
11 28th Apr 2014 Revision  
12 5th May 2014 Assessment 2: Skills review  Assessment 2: Skills review
13 12th May 2014 Project work  Project draft check and feedback
14 19th May 2014 Project Submissions  Assessment 1: Project Stage 2 due - Final
15 26th May 2014 Review and Feedback  
16 1st June 2014 Resubmits  


Learning Resources

Prescribed Texts

Gerard Sparke, The Java Way, 3rd Edition, ISBN 978-0-646-54746-6


References

Kathy Sierra & Bert Bates, Head First Java, 2nd Edition, (Sebastopol: O'Reilly Media, 2005), ISBN 978-0-596-00920-5.

James Overton, Simple Program Design, (Thomson Learning) ISBN 978-0-17-012895-7.


Other Resources

Other materials will include worksheets distributed by the teacher in class and various Websites which will be indicated.


Overview of Assessment

Students must demonstrate an understanding of all elements of competency to be deemed competent.

A range of assessment methods are used to assess practical skills and knowledge, for example:
• direct questioning combined with review of portfolios of evidence and third party workplace reports of on-the-job performance by the candidate
• review of authenticated documents from the workplace or training environment
• demonstration of techniques

Students 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.


Assessment Tasks

You are required to complete 2 assessments. You must successfully complete both the 2 assessments to be deemed competent in this unit.

Assessment 1: Project (Due Dates: Weeks 6 and 14)
This is a major project which is assessed progressively in 2 stages as Project Stage 1(week 6) and Project Stage 2 (week 14).
Note: Late submissions of work required for any stage of this project will be eligible for grading at pass level only.
Project Description / Scenario: You are a developer within a small software consulting firm and have been assigned to build a new software application for a client. Your application has to be submitted to, and approved by, your Project Leader (in this case your lab teacher). There are two (2) stages involved in submitting your task.

Stage 1 deliverables:
• A UML class diagram of all classes, their attributes, methods, etc., and showing their relationships to one another.
• The entire java source code.

Stage 2 deliverables:
• A UML class diagram of all classes (including all subclasses and driver classes), their attributes, methods, etc., and showing their relationships to one another. This diagram should also show which tiers the classes are in.
• The entire java source code showing inheritances and object oriented concepts.

Assessment 2: Skills review (Test) - Done in labs in week 12
This is a part theory and part practical test where students will be asked to design and develop a small application in Java using object-oriented concepts. This assessment is done under a supervised time-bound condition.
 


Assessment Matrix

Other Information

Submission Requirements

Assessment tasks need to be submitted via Blackboard.

You should:
• Ensure that you submit assessments on or before the due date. If your performance in the assessment is affected by unexpected circumstances, you should consider applying for Special Consideration. Information on the process and application forms is available at http://rmit.edu.au/browse;ID=ls0ydfokry9rz website.
• Always retain a copy of your assessment tasks. (hard copy and soft copy)
• When you submit work for assessment at RMIT University you need to use a cover sheet that includes a declaration and statement of authorship. You must complete, sign and submit a cover sheet with all work you submit for assessment, whether individual or group work. On the cover sheet you declare that the work you are presenting for assessment is your own work. An assignment cover sheet for submission of work for assessment is available on blackboard.
• Each page of your assessment should include footer with your name, student number, the title of the assessment, unit code and title and page numbers. For example, Julie Macpherson, 324567, Task 2, OHS2345C Ensure safe workplace, Page 1 of 10.


Marking Guide (competency):

Vocational Education and Training (VET) is based on current industry needs and the focus on preparing you for the workplace. Because VET courses are informed by practical application of knowledge and skills, they are based on a system known as ‘competency based training’ (CBT).

So when you are assessed in VET it is about whether you are competent to do the job, as well as having a firm grasp on the knowledge and skills required to do that job, as opposed to traditional curriculum based education settings that are often based on knowledge retention.

You need to demonstrate you are competent in each element of the unit of competency you are studying.

You will receive feedback on each assessment task that will inform you whether you are competent or not and how well you are performing. Once competent in all elements of the unit you receive a competency grading.

Please refer to the Final Grades table below.

Late Submission Procedures
You are required to submit assessment items and/or ensure performance based assessment is completed by the due dates.
If you are prevented from submitting an assessment item on time, by circumstances outside your control, you may apply in advance to your teacher for an extension to the due date of up to seven calendar days.
More Information: http://www.rmit.edu.au/students/assessment/extension
Form to use: http://mams.rmit.edu.au/seca86tti4g4z.pdf
Where an extension of greater than seven days is needed, you must apply for special consideration. Applications for special consideration must be submitted no later than two working days after the assessment task deadline or scheduled examination.
More Information: http://www.rmit.edu.au/browse;ID=g43abm17hc9w
Form to use: http://mams.rmit.edu.au/8a5dgcaqvaes1.pdf

Resubmissions (VET Programs):
If you are found to be Not Yet Competent in a Course Assessment Task you will be allowed one resubmission only. Your teacher will provide feedback regarding what you need to do to improve and will set a new deadline for the resubmission. The highest grade you will receive if your resubmission is successful is “CAG”.
If you are still not meeting the assessment requirements you must apply to your Program Manager in writing outlining the steps you will take to demonstrate competence in your course. Your submission will be considered by the Program Team and you will be advised of the outcome as soon as possible.

Adjustments to Assessment
In certain circumstances students may be eligible for an assessment adjustment. For more information about the circumstances under which the assessment arrangements might be granted please access the following website:
More Information: http://rmit.edu.au/browse;ID=7usdbki1fjf31


Marking Guide (Grading)

After achieving competency we then grade your performance in the unit; this gives you the opportunity to have the level of your performance formally recognized against industry standards and employability skills.

The grading is according to the following criteria:

1. LEVEL OF INDEPENDENCE, INITIATIVE, ENTERPRISE AND PERFORMANCE OF WORK TASK

We are looking for a high level of ability to complete all tasks independently as per the specifications as well as demonstrating a high level of initiative in your approach to introductory programming tasks using an object-oriented programming language.

2. DEMONSTRATED BREADTH OF UNDERPINNING KNOWLEDGE AND A WILLINGNESS TO CONTINUE LEARNING 

We are looking for depth of understanding of the key concepts and knowledge required in programming tasks using an object-oriented programming language. You should be able to demonstrate a thorough understanding of all applicable Object-Oriented concepts in all the assessment tasks.

3. TECHNIQUES & PROCESSES, TECHNOLOGY SKILLS AND PROBLEM SOLVING

We are looking for appropriate use of technology to assist in presenting all tasks clearly and suitable for the intended audience. You also need to show an understanding of the kinds of problems that can arise in managing Object-oriented programming systems and how these might be addressed..

4. WORK ORGANISATION, PLANNING AND SELF MANAGEMENT 

We expect to see ongoing uploading of information into Blackboard as per course requirements and timely submission of all required assessment tasks.

5. COMMUNICATION, PEOPLE NETWORKING, LANGUAGE AND INTERPERSONAL SKILLS AND TEAMWORK 

We expect to see contributions to relevant discussions in class and with your other members. We expect to see your tasks should demonstrate a very good understanding of strategies for a collaborative approach to object oriented programming in the workplace.


Final Grades Table:

CHD   Competent with High Distinction
CDI     Competent with Distinction
CC      Competent with Credit
CAG    Competency Achieved – Graded
NYC    Not Yet Competent
DNS   Did Not Submit for assessment

Further information regarding the application of the grading criteria will be provided by your teacher.
 

Course Overview: Access Course Overview