Part A: Course Overview
Course Title: Data Communication and Net-Centric Computing
Credit Points: 12.00
Terms
Course Code |
Campus |
Career |
School |
Learning Mode |
Teaching Period(s) |
COSC3113 |
City Campus |
Postgraduate |
175H Computing Technologies |
Face-to-Face |
Sem 1 2025 |
Flexible Terms
Course Code |
Campus |
Career |
School |
Learning Mode |
Teaching Period(s) |
COSC3113 |
City Campus |
Postgraduate |
175H Computing Technologies |
Face-to-Face |
PGRDFlex25 (STEM), PGRDFlex25 (All) |
Course Coordinator: Dr Fengling Han
Course Coordinator Phone: +61 3 9925 3402
Course Coordinator Email: fengling.han@rmit.edu.au
Course Coordinator Location: City Campus, 14.11.27
Course Coordinator Availability: By appointment.
Pre-requisite Courses and Assumed Knowledge and Capabilities
None
Course Description
This course aims to provide a broad introduction to the fundamentals of data communication and network technology. The emphasis is on data communication from the perspective of computer scientists and information technologists.
The course covers the underlying mechanisms and their characteristics that need to be considered by communicating application software. Students will engage with key topics such as the principles and reference models of data communication, including the OSI model and TCP/IP suite, basic operations of communication systems, and the intricacies of protocols and error handling.
The course also examines the application of these concepts in networked environments, equipping students with the skills to develop and manage software applications that effectively communicate within these frameworks.
Through a mixture of theoretical study and practical exercises, students will be prepared to address emerging technologies and complex challenges in the field of data communication.
Objectives/Learning Outcomes/Capability Development
Program Learning Outcomes
This course contributes to the program learning outcomes for the following program(s):
MC159 Master of Cyber Security
PLO 1 Knowledge - Apply a broad and coherent set of knowledge and skills for developing user-centric information technology solutions for contemporary societal challenges.
PLO 2 Problem Solving - Apply systematic problem solving and decision-making methodologies to identify, design and implement information technology solutions to real world problems, demonstrating the ability to work independently to self-manage processes and projects.
PLO 3 Cognitive and Technical Skill - Critically analyse and evaluate user requirements and design systems employing software development tools, techniques and emerging technologies.
For more information on the program learning outcomes for your program, please see the program guide.
Upon successful completion of this course, you will be able to:
- Critically evaluate and effectively communicate basic concepts of data communication, demonstrating specialist knowledge in the field.
- Apply comprehensive knowledge of data communications and network technology, including detailed underlying mechanisms, principles, reference models, protocols, and error handling, appropriate for the innovative development of software applications in networked environments.
- Analyse and interpret emerging networking technologies, integrating AI where appropriate, to address complex industrial requirements and propose viable, technology-driven solutions.
- Evaluate and critically analyse communication systems using the TCP/IP protocol suite and the abstract 7-layer OSI reference model, demonstrating the ability to synthesise advanced theoretical and practical aspects.
- Employ advanced problem-solving skills to address complex issues in real-world data communications, demonstrating adaptability and innovative thinking.
- Utilise advanced mathematical and analytical skills in the performance evaluation of data communication systems, applying concepts such as utilisation, throughput, and delay to optimise system performance and efficiency.
Overview of Learning Activities
You are encouraged to be proactive and self-directed in your learning, asking questions of teaching staff and/or peers and seeking out information as required, especially from the numerous sources available through the RMIT library, and through links and material specific to this course that is available through myRMIT Studies Course. Learning activities are made up of teacher guided hours and learner directed hours. This course uses highly structured learning activities to guide your learning process and prepare you for your assessments. The activities are a combination of individual, peer-supported and facilitator-guided activities, and where possible project-led, with opportunities for feedback throughout.
Authentic and industry-relevant learning is critical to this course and you will be encouraged to critically compare and contrast what is happening in your context and in industry, and to use your insights.
Social learning is another important component and you are expected to participate in class and group activities, share drafts of work and resources and give and receive peer feedback. You will be expected to work efficiently and effectively with others to achieve outcomes greater than those that you might have achieved alone.
The learning activities enable you to understand course learning resources and apply that learning to improve your own practice, for example by producing real-world artefacts and engaging in scenarios and case studies.
Overview of Learning Resources
RMIT will provide you with resources and tools for learning in this course through myRMIT Studies Course.
You should make extensive use of computer laboratories and relevant software provided by the School.
There are services available to support your learning through the University Library. The Library provides guides on academic referencing and subject specialist help as well as a range of study support services. For further information, please visit the Library page on the RMIT University website and the myRMIT student portal.
Overview of Assessment
Note: this course has no hurdle requirements
Assessment Tasks
For on-campus students:
Assessment Task 1: Technical report
Weighting 20%
This assessment supports CLOs 1, 2 and 4.
Assessment Task 2: Deep investigation on data communication protocols
Weighting 30%
This assessment supports CLOs 2 and 4.
Assessment Task 3: In-class face-to-face timed test
Weighting 15%
This assessment task supports CLOs 3-5
Assessment Task 4: Advanced data communication and demo
Weighting 35%
This assessment task supports CLOs 4-6
For RMITO students
Assessment Task 1: Technical report
Weighting 30%
This assessment supports CLOs 1, 2 and 4.
Assessment Task 2: Deep investigation on data communication protocols
Weighting 30%
This assessment supports CLOs 2-5.
Assessment Task 3: Advanced data communication
Weighting 40%
This assessment task supports CLOs 4-6
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 Equitable Learning Services if you would like to find out more.