NCC Education Limited, 2013

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Tel: +44 (0) 161 438 6200 Fax: +44 (0) 161 438 6240 Email: [email protected]
http://www.nccedu.com

L5DC Qualification Specification v1.0

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CONTENTS
1.

About NCC Education ................................................................................................................. 4

1.1

Why choose this qualification? .......................................................................................... 4

2.

Structure of the L5DC Qualification .......................................................................................... 5

3.

Assessment for the qualification ............................................................................................... 6

3.1
3.2
3.3
3.3.1
3.3.2

Assessment objectives ...................................................................................................... 6

Overview of Qualification Unit Assessment....................................................................... 6
Accessibility of Assessment............................................................................................... 6
Reasonable adjustments and special consideration ....................................................... 6
Supervision and Authentication of Assessment .............................................................. 7

Administration.............................................................................................................................. 8
4.1
4.2
4.3
4.4
4.5
4.6

5.

Assessment Cycles............................................................................................................ 8
Language of Assessment .................................................................................................. 8
Candidates ......................................................................................................................... 8
Qualification and Unit Entry Requirements ....................................................................... 8
Candidate Entry ................................................................................................................. 8
Resits ................................................................................................................................. 9

Syllabus....................................................................................................................................... 10
5.1.
5.2.
5.3.
5.4.
5.5.
5.6.
5.7.
5.8.

Professional Issues in IT.................................................................................................. 10

Network Security and Cryptography................................................................................ 14
Information Systems Analysis.......................................................................................... 17
Analysis, Design and Implementation ............................................................................. 23
Dynamic Websites ........................................................................................................... 26
Database Design and Development................................................................................ 29
Agile Development ........................................................................................................... 32
Computing Project ........................................................................................................... 36

6.

Results and Certificates............................................................................................................ 40

7.

Further Information.................................................................................................................... 40

Appendix 1 Qualification Documentation ....................................................................................... 41

Appendix 2 Grade Descriptors......................................................................................................... 42

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1. About NCC Education

NCC Education is a UK-based awarding body, active in the UK and internationally. Originally part of
the National Computing Centre, NCC Education started offering IT qualifications in 1976 and from
1997 developed its Higher Education portfolio to include Business qualifications, IT qualifications for
school children and a range of Foundation qualifications.
With Centres in over forty countries, four international offices and academic managers worldwide,
NCC Education strives to employ the latest technologies for learning, assessment and support. NCC
Education is regulated and quality assured by Ofqual (the Office of Qualifications and Examinations
Regulation, see www.ofqual.gov.uk) in England and Northern Ireland.

1.1

Why choose this qualification?

NCC Educations Level 5 Diploma in Computing is:

Regulated by Ofqual and listed on the Qualifications and Credit Framework Qualification
Number 600/3055/0. The Qualifications and Credit Framework (QCF) is a credit-based
qualifications framework, allowing candidates to take a unit-based approach to building
qualifications.
For more information see:
http://ofqual.gov.uk/qualifications-and-assessments/qualification-frameworks/

Quality assured and well established in the UK and worldwide

Recognised and valued by employers and universities worldwide

A pathway qualification for candidates who wish to complete the NCC Education degree
journey. The Level 5 Diploma in Computing is equivalent to the second year of an IT degree
in the UK university system. On successful completion, candidates will be able to complete
the final year of a degree at one of the many universities that recognise NCC Education
qualifications, or pursue a career in the IT industry.

Candidates will study a balance of academic and vocational subjects in order to provide them with
the necessary knowledge and skills to play a significant role in IT organisations.

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2. Structure of the L5DC Qualification

Qualification Title, Credits, Units and Level
NCC Education Level 5 Diploma in Computing (QCF), 120 credits, all at QCF
Level 5. Candidates must pass all 8 Units to be awarded the Level 5 Diploma in
Computing certificate.
Professional
Issues in IT
(15 credits)

Network Security
and Cryptography
(15 credits)

Information
Systems Analysis
(15 credits)

Dynamic Websites
(15 credits)

Analysis, Design
and
Implementation
(15 credits)

Database Design
and Development
(15 credits)

Agile
Development
(15 credits)

Computing Project
(15 credits)

Please see Section 5 below for Syllabuses

This qualification is regulated by Ofqual and listed on the Qualifications and
Credit Framework Qualification Number 600/3055/0. For further information
see http://register.ofqual.gov.uk/Qualification/Details/600_3055_0

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3. Assessment for the qualification

3.1

Assessment objectives

All assessment for the qualification is intended to allow candidates to demonstrate that they have
met the relevant Learning Outcomes. Moreover NCC Educations assessment is appropriate to the
assessment criteria as stated in this specification and is regularly reviewed to ensure it remains
consistent with the specification.

3.2

Overview of Qualification Unit Assessment

Assessment Methods

Unit

Global
Examination

Local
Examination

Global
Assignment

Professional Issues in IT

75%

25%

Network Security and Cryptography

75%

25%

Information Systems Analysis

75%

25%

Dynamic Websites

75%

25%

Analysis, Design and Implementation

75%

25%

Database Design and Development

75%

25%

Agile Development

75%

25%

Computing Project

100%

An examination is a time-constrained assessment that will take place on a specified date and
usually in an NCC Education Centre. An assignment requires candidates to produce a written
response to a set of one or more tasks, meeting a deadline imposed by the Centre. Local
Examinations and Global Assignments are marked by the Centre and Global Examinations are
marked by NCC Education.
The overall Unit mark is computed from the weighted mean of its components. The pass mark for a
Unit is 40%.
NCC Education Centres can provide candidates with a specimen assessment paper as well as a
limited number of past examination and assignment papers.

3.3

Accessibility of Assessment

We review our guidelines on assessment practices to ensure compliance with equality law and to
confirm assessment for our Units is fit for purpose.
3.3.1

Reasonable adjustments and special consideration

NCC Education is committed to providing reasonable adjustments and special consideration so as

to ensure disabled candidates, or those facing exceptional circumstances, are not disadvantaged in
demonstrating their knowledge, skills and understanding.
Further information on NCC Educations arrangements for giving reasonable adjustments and
special consideration can be found in the NCC Education Reasonable Adjustments and Special
Considerations Policy.

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3.3.2 Supervision and Authentication of Assessment

NCC Education Centres are required to organise all assessment activity for this specification
according to NCC Educations policies and advice.
Candidates identity and the authenticity of their work is verified and NCC Education moderates all
assessment to ensure that the marking carried out is fair, and that the grading reflects the standard
achieved by candidates as relevant to the specification Learning Outcomes and Assessment
Criteria. Detailed guidance on this process and how candidate work must be submitted to NCC
Education is given in NCC Educations Examination Guidelines and Marking and Moderation
Manual. The Marking and Moderation Manual also includes full reminder checklists for Centre
administrators.

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4 Administration
4.1

Assessment Cycles

Four assessment cycles are offered throughout the year, in March, June, September and
December.
Examination dates and assignment submission deadlines are published in the NCC Education
Activity Schedule, which is provided to Centres by Customer Services. It is also available on
Connect, NCC Educations student registration system.
The Activity Schedule also gives the key dates for registering candidates for assessment cycles, the
dates when Centres can expect the assessment documentation and, ultimately, the assessment
results from NCC Education.

4.2

Language of Assessment

All assessment is conducted in English.

4.3

Candidates

NCC Educations qualifications are available to those Centre candidates who satisfy the entry
requirements as stated in this specification.

4.4

Qualification and Unit Entry Requirements

Entry Requirements
Holders of the NCC Education International Diploma in Computer Studies (IDCS)
Holders of the NCC Education Level 4 Diploma in Computing (L4DC) (QCF)
Holders of any local or international qualification deemed to be a similar level to these awards.
Candidates in this category whose first language is not English will also require IELTS 5.5 or
equivalent.
It is recommended that IDCS-holders wishing to progress to the Level 5 Diploma in Computing
should have either passed the Java or Visual Basic elective Unit, or should have some objectoriented programming experience or training before proceeding with the Level 5 qualification.
Direct Entry at Other Points
The majority of students are expected to join the NCC Education IT Journey at Level 4 or earlier.
However, applications will be accepted for entry at any point and will be accepted, by means of
documented evidence, using the following criteria:
The applicant's general educational background is appropriate for the level of entry.
The applicant's knowledge of computing is both equivalent to and appropriate for the level of
entry.

4.5

Candidate Entry

Candidates are registered for assessment via NCC Educations Connect system and according to
the deadlines for registration provided in the Activity Schedule.

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Candidates are registered for the assessment of each Unit they wish to take in a particular
assessment cycle (e.g. Units A and B in June, Units C and D in September, Units E and F in
December and Units G and H in March). This includes candidates who need to resit a particular
Unit.
Further details can be found in NCC Educations Operations Manual.

4.6

Resits

If a candidate fails an assessment, they will be provided with opportunities to resit during the
eligibility period.
Candidates may only seek reassessment in a previously failed Unit.

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5. Syllabus
5.1. Professional Issues in IT
Title:
QCF code:

Professional Issues in IT
R/503/4768

Credits

Guided Learning Hours

15

Level

60

Learning Outcomes;
The Learner will:

Assessment Criteria;
The Learner can:

1. Understand the social, ethical

and
professional
issues
essential to the IT profession

1.1 Identify and explain common legal, social and

professional standards issues applicable to a
professional working in the IT industry
1.2 Appraise the ethical aspects of various scenarios
in the development, deployment and use of IT
systems
1.3 Explain the social, legal and professional
standards issues in the context of various
scenarios in the development, deployment and
use of IT systems

2. Understand
a
project
management life cycle and
associated techniques

2.1 Explain the project management lifecycle in the

context of an IT project
2.2 Identify the key phases of the project
management lifecycle in relation to a given
scenario
2.3 Develop project management strategies for
specified software development and maintenance
projects

3. Understand how to deploy a

software application

3.1 Explain the need for structured and planned

deployment of a software application
3.2 Analyse the potential risks and problems of
deploying a software application in a given
scenario
3.3 Specify a software deployment process for a given
scenario

4. Understand risks and the 4.1

management of them in
software projects
4.2
4.3

Explain the need for detailed risk analysis in a

software engineering context
Explain risk management techniques
Analyse risks and risk management strategies in
the context of an IT project

5. Understand the principles and 5.1 Analyse an IT service case study in respect to
techniques of IT service
management requirements
management
5.2 Analyse objectives in an IT service case study
5.3 Apply management techniques to a problem
situation in order to achieve objectives

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6. Be able to design software 6.1 Define and explain the concept of software quality
quality
policies
and 6.2 Explain the use of metrics for software quality
procedures
management and apply these to a given scenario
6.3 Evaluate the requirements for software quality
policies and procedures in a problem context
6.4 Design software quality policies and procedures
and apply these to a given scenario
Syllabus content
Topic

Course coverage

Understanding IT
Standards and
Issues

Introduction to the Unit

Ethics What are ethics and why are they relevant?
Social, legal and professional issues in IT and their potential
impact
Why understanding standards and issues is so important
Learning Outcome: 1

Applying IT
Standards and
Issues

Applying social, ethical, legal and professional standards and

issues to the IT profession and projects
Analysing the effects of such issues and standards on the IT
industry
Learning Outcome: 1

IT Project
Management

What is IT project management and why is it necessary?

Identifying and understanding project management lifecycles
and phases
Understanding project management strategies
Learning Outcome: 2

Applied IT Project
Management

Identifying and applying project management lifecycle phases

and strategies to IT projects
Analysing, evaluating, concluding and reporting findings
Learning Outcome: 2

Software Application
Deployment

What is software application deployment?

Its place within an IT projects lifecycle
How to identify potential issues
Software application deployment standards
Learning Outcome: 3

Applying Software
Application
Deployment to
Projects

Identifying deployment risks and issues

Creating a software deployment procedure for an IT project
Explanation of software deployment procedure
Learning Outcome: 3

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IT Risk Management

What is risk?
Risk management and the techniques employed
Risk identification and analysis in IT projects
The consequences of not planning for risk
Reactive vs. proactive
Learning Outcome: 4

Applying, Evaluating
and Managing Risk
Analysis

Applying risk analysis and risk management to an IT project

Evaluating findings
Reporting results
Learning Outcome: 4

IT Service
Management (ITSM)

What is IT service management?

Where is ITSM focused?
Why is ITSM important?
ITSM International Standards
Learning Outcome: 5

Analysing and
Applying IT Service
Management

Analysing and applying IT service management

Evaluation of ITSM advantages and disadvantages
Learning Outcome: 5

Software Quality
Policies and
Procedures

Understanding quality within IT

What are quality procedures and policies?
Why software quality procedures are important
Measuring quality
Theory of applying quality procedures to IT projects
External standards
Learning Outcome: 6

Applying Software
Quality

Writing a software quality policy

Applying software quality procedures
Revision of Unit content
Assessment Clinic
Learning Outcome: 6

Related National Occupational Standards (NOS)

Sector Subject Area: 6.1 ICT Professionals
Related NOS: 4.7.P.3 Monitor the progress of system/solution/service design activities;
5.1.S.4 - Monitor, analyse and report on systems development activities;
5.2.P.1 - Plan software development activities;
5.2.P.3 - Control software development activities;
5.2.P.4 - Contribute to the management of software development;
5.3.P.2 - Contribute to the communication of the results of IT/Technology solution testing;
5.3.S.2 - Manage testing activities

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Assessments
Local Examination (75%)
Global Assignment (25%)
See also Section 3 above

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5.2. Network Security and Cryptography

Title:
QCF code:

Network Security and Cryptography

R/503/4785

Credits

Guided Learning Hours

15

Level

60

Learning Outcomes;
The Learner will:

Assessment Criteria;
The Learner can:

1. Understand the most common 1.1 Explain the most common types of cryptographic
types
of
cryptographic
algorithm (i.e. block ciphers, public-key ciphers
algorithm
and hash algorithms)
1.2 Select and justify an appropriate algorithm for a
particular purpose
2. Understand the
Infrastructure

Public-key 2.1 Describe the Public-key Infrastructure

2.2 Explain the role of Certification Authorities

3. Understand security protocols 3.1 Explain the concept of Web security with TLS
for
protecting
data
on 3.2 Describe Email security mechanisms
networks
3.3 Describe disk encryption mechanisms
3.4 Deploy file encryption mechanisms
4. Be able to digitally sign emails
and files

4.1 Explain digital signatures

4.2 Demonstrate applying for and deploying a Digital
Certificate
4.3 Digitally sign an email

5. Understand Vulnerability
Assessments and the
weakness of using passwords
for authentication

5.1
5.2
5.3
5.4
5.5

Explain the need for vulnerability assessments

Interpret a vulnerability assessment report
Explain the different authentication mechanisms
Describe multifactor authentication
Describe biometrics and their issues

6. Be able to perform simple 6.1 Use port scanners to highlight open ports
vulnerability assessments and 6.2 Perform password cracking using dictionary and
password audits
brute-force methods
7. Be able to configure simple
firewall architectures

8. Understand
Networks

Virtual

7.1
7.2
7.3
7.4
7.5

Configure access control mechanisms

Describe the components of a firewall
Configure a DMZ firewall
Evaluate the limitations of firewalls
Apply and manage port forwarding rules

Private 8.1 Explain Virtual Private Networks

8.2 Select an appropriate remote access solution

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9. Be able to deploy wireless 9.1 Explain the vulnerabilities inherent in wireless

security
networks
9.2 Deploy a secure network architecture for wireless
access
9.3 Configure Access Control Lists
9.4 Encrypt and protect the wireless link
Syllabus content
Topic

Course coverage

Cryptography
Fundamentals

PKI

The Public-Key Infrastructure

Certification Authorities and Digital Signatures
Learning Outcomes: 2 & 4

Web Security

Browser security and SSL/TLS for encrypted browsing

Learning Outcomes: 3 & 4

Email Security

PGP and S/MIME for encrypted and authenticated email

Learning Outcomes: 3 & 4

Data Protection

File, disk and portable encryption technologies

Learning Outcomes: 3

Vulnerability
Assessment

Authentication

Passwords
Multi-factor authentication
Biometrics
Learning Outcomes: 5

Access Control

Packet filtering
Access control lists
NAT
IDS
Learning Outcomes: 7

Firewalls

Firewall architectures and their limitations

The DMZ firewall and its limitations
Learning Outcomes: 7

Cryptographic algorithms including:

- AES block cipher
- RSA public-key code
- SHA hash algorithm
Learning Outcomes: 1

Vulnerability assessment terms and tools:

- Port scanners
- Password crackers
Learning Outcomes: 5 & 6

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VPN

Virtual Private Network technologies and issues

Learning Outcomes: 7 & 8

Remote Access

Wireless Security

Wireless security (WEP, WPA, WPA2)

Secure network architectures for wireless deployments
Learning Outcomes: 9

Alternative remote access technologies:

- Remote desktops
- Web applications
Learning Outcomes: 7 & 8

Related National Occupational Standards (NOS)

Sector Subject Area: 6.1 ICT Professionals
Related NOS: 6.2.A.1 - Contribute to IT/technology security management activities;
6.2.A.2 - Document IT/technology security management processes;
6.2.A.3 - Assist the management with IT/technology security systems;
6.2.P.1 - Manage the IT/technology security requirements;
6.2.P.2 - Carry out IT/technology security management activities
Assessments
Global Examination (75%)
Global Assignment (25%)
See also Section 3 above

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5.3. Information Systems Analysis

Title:
QCF code:

Information Systems Analysis

Y/503/4769

Credits

Guided Learning Hours

15

Level

60

1. Understand soft and hard 1.1 Explain the key aspects of Soft Systems
approaches to the analysis of
Methodology (SSM) and related approaches
information systems
1.2 Explain the key aspects of Structured Systems
Analysis and Design Methodology (SSADM) and
related approaches
1.3 Identify business situations where a soft or hard
systems analysis might be appropriate
1.4 Explain combined soft/hard frameworks (such as
Multiview).
2. Understand the techniques
associated with requirements
capture

2.1 Explain and apply stakeholder analysis techniques

2.2 Explain and apply CATWOE

3. Understand
the
different
viewpoints associated with IS
methodologies

3.1
3.2
3.3
3.4
3.5

Explain object-oriented IS methodologies

Explain organisation-oriented IS methodologies
Explain process-oriented IS methodologies
Explain people-oriented IS methodologies
Evaluate IS methodologies of different types in the
context of a business scenario

4. Be able to apply various 4.1 Evaluate

a
knowledge-based
view
of
analytical
techniques
for
organisations
understanding
a complex 4.2 Define and apply techniques for analysing the
organisational environment
business environment (such as PEST and SWOT)
5. Understand the relationship 5.1 Analyse the economic, social, political and
between the economic, social,
technical aspects of a business systems problem
political and technical factors 5.2 Evaluate the different aspects of a business
influencing
a
business
problem in the context of potential solutions
problem
6. Understand and apply the 6.1 Design or evaluate an interface with regard to the
principles of interface design
characteristics of its users
and the requirements and 6.2 Explain the requirements of computer users and
characteristics of users that
how good design can address these
motivate these

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Syllabus content
Topic

Course coverage

Introduction to
Information Systems
Analysis

Hard Approaches to
the Analysis of
Information Systems

Soft Approaches to
the Analysis of
Information Systems

An introduction to the Unit

Define and explain the term information system
Identify types and examples of information systems
Discuss Information systems analysis in the context of the
SDLC
Define and explain the abbreviation SDLC
Define and explain analysis and requirements capture
Discuss the role of analysis and requirements capture in
specific contexts
Define the term methodology
Determine the requirement for different methodologies
Present an overview of Information System Analysis and
Design methodologies
Research and discuss case studies
Learning Outcome: 1
Define and explain the term hard approach to systems analysis
Identify examples of hard approach methodologies
Identify business situations where a hard approach to systems
analysis might be appropriate
Define and explain the abbreviation SSADM
Identify and discuss the advantages of SSADM
Identify and discuss the disadvantages of SSADM
Define and explain the abbreviation DFD
Define and explain terminology associated with DFDs
Illustrate the use of DFDs
Construct DFDs
Provide solutions to business problems using DFDs
Learning Outcome: 1
Define and explain the term soft approach to systems analysis
Identify examples of soft approach methodologies
Identify business situations where a soft approach to systems
analysis might be appropriate
Define and explain the abbreviation SSM
Identify and discuss the advantages of SSM
Identify and discuss the disadvantages of SSM
Provide solutions to business problems using SSM
Research and discuss case studies
Learning Outcome: 1

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Combined Soft/Hard
Approaches to the
Analysis of
Information Systems

Techniques
Associated with
Requirements
Capture

Define and explain the term stakeholder

Identify and discuss types of stakeholder analysis techniques
Define and illustrate the Stakeholder Analysis Matrix
Define and explain the abbreviation CATWOE
Identify and discuss the advantages of CATWOE
Identify and discuss the disadvantages of CATWOE
Provide solutions to business problems using CATWOE
Evaluate CATWOE
Learning Outcome: 2

Define and explain the term combined soft/hard approach to

systems analysis
Identify examples of combined soft/hard approach
methodologies
Identify business situations where a combined soft/hard
approach to systems analysis might be appropriate
Define and explain the term Multiview
Identify and discuss the advantages of Multiview
Identify and discuss the disadvantages of Multiview
Provide solutions to business problems using Multiview
Research and discuss case studies
Compare and contrast soft, hard and combined approaches to
systems analysis
Learning Outcome: 1

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OrganisationOriented and PeopleOriented IS

Methodologies

Process-Oriented IS
Methodologies

Define and explain the term organisation-oriented IS

methodology
Identify the types of organisation-oriented IS methodologies
Identify and discuss the advantages of organisation-oriented
methodologies
Identify and discuss the disadvantages of organisation-oriented
methodologies
Evaluate and discuss an organisation-oriented methodology in
the context of a business scenario
Define and explain the term people-oriented IS methodology
Identify the types of people-oriented IS methodologies
Identify and discuss the advantages of people-oriented
methodologies
Identify and discuss the disadvantages of people-oriented
methodologies
Define and explain the abbreviation ETHICS
Evaluate and discuss the ETHICS methodology in the context
of a business scenario
Define and explain the term Agile methodology
Evaluate and discuss the Agile methodology in the context of a
business scenario
Learning Outcome: 3
Define and explain the term process-oriented IS methodology
Identify the types of process-oriented IS methodologies
Identify and discuss the advantages of process-oriented
methodologies
Identify and discuss the disadvantages of process-oriented
methodologies
Define and explain the term Yourdon methodology
Evaluate and discuss the Yourdon methodology in the context
of a business scenario
Define and explain the abbreviation POEM
Evaluate and discuss the POEM methodology in the context of
a business scenario
Learning Outcome: 3

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Object-Oriented
Methodologies

IS

Define and explain the term object-oriented IS methodology

Identify the types of object-oriented IS methodologies
Define and explain terminology associated with an object
oriented methodology
Illustrate the construction of an object-oriented methodology
Identify and discuss the advantages of object-oriented
methodologies
Identify and discuss the disadvantages of object-oriented
methodologies
Evaluate and discuss an object-oriented methodology in the
context of a business scenario
Learning Outcome: 3

Analytical
Techniques for
Understanding a
Complex
Organisational
Environment

Analysis of Factors
Influencing a
Business Problem

Define and explain the term knowledge-based view of

organisations
Identify and discuss the advantages of an organisationoriented methodology
Identify and discuss the advantages of an organisationoriented methodology
Define and explain the abbreviation SWOT
Demonstrate how SWOT can be used
Apply SWOT to a business scenario
Define and explain the abbreviation PEST
Demonstrate how PEST can be used
Apply PEST to a business scenario
Learning Outcome: 4
Analyse the economic aspects of a business systems problem
Evaluate and discuss the economic aspects of a business
systems problem in the context of potential solutions
Analyse the social aspects of a business systems problem
Evaluate and discuss the social aspects of a business systems
problem in the context of potential solutions
Analyse the political aspects of a business systems problem
Evaluate and discuss the political aspects of a business
systems problem in the context of potential solutions
Analyse the technical aspects of a business systems problem
Evaluate and discuss the technical aspects of a business
systems problem in the context of potential solutions
Research and discuss case studies
Learning Outcome: 5

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Principles of
Interface Design and
the Requirements
and Characteristics
of Users that
Motivate These

Design or Evaluate
an Interface with
regard to the
Requirements and
Characteristics of its
Users

Identify the principles and good practice of interface design

Analyse the requirements of the users of an interface
Analyse the characteristics of the users of an interface
Demonstrate how good interface design can address the
requirements and characteristics of an interface user
Learning Outcomes: 6
Design an interface that addresses the requirements and
characteristics of an interface user
Evaluate and discuss whether interface design principles have
been applied to an interface
Evaluate and discuss whether interface design principles have
addressed the requirements and characteristics of the interface
user
Learning Outcomes: 6

Related National Occupational Standards (NOS)

Sector Subject Area: 6.1 ICT Professional Competence
Related NOS: 4.1.P.1 Carry out IT/technology architecture activities
4.1.P.2.C Contribute to information activities relating to IT/technology architecture
models
4.1.P.1 Contribute, under supervision, to the preparation of a data analysis assignment;
4.1.P.2 Assist in the development of data analysis models
6.1.A.1 - Contribute to information management
6.1.A.2 - Document information assets
6.1.P.1 - Manage the classification and categorisation of information
Assessments
Global Examination (75%)
Global Assignment (25%)
See also Section 3 above

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5.4. Analysis , Design and Implementation

Title:
QCF code:

Analysis, Design and Implementation

H/503/4869

Credits

15

Guided Learning Hours

Level

60

Learning Outcomes;
The Learner will:

Assessment Criteria;
The Learner can:

1. Understand the seamless

transition from OO Analysis to OO
Design.

1.1 Explain the seamless transition from OO

analysis to OO design
1.2 Identify and describe OO analysis models
1.3 Indentify and describe OO design models

2. Understand how to convert OO

analysis and design models to
code

2.1 Convert OO analysis models to code

2.2 Convert OO design models to code

3. Understand the quality attributes

associated with an OO
development

3.1 Explain the developer software quality

attributes
3.2 Explain the user software quality attributes

4. Understand the concept of

maintenance within an OO
development environment

4.1 Describe what is meant by maintenance of

software
4.2 Identify and define the different types of
software maintenance

5. Be able to produce OO analysis

and design models using a case
tool

5.1 Use a case tool to produce OO analysis

models based on a case study
5.2 Use a case tool to develop OO design models
based on a case study

6. Be able to convert OO analysis

and design models to code using
an appropriate IDE

6.1 Use an IDE to develop code based on an OO

analysis model
6.2 Use an IDE to develop code based on an OO
design model

7. Be able to refactor an OO
programme to improve quality

7.1 Refactor code based on standard refactoring

techniques.

Syllabus content
Topic

Course coverage

Introduction to the
Unit

Introduction to the Unit

Distinction between analysis and design
The Software Crisis
Recap of key OO concepts
Learning Outcomes: 1

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Introduction to
StarUML

Obtaining and using the Unit OO Case tool

Turning simple models into code
Learning Outcomes: 5 & 6

Object-Oriented
Modelling

Discussion of the OO software development process

Use-case diagrams
Identifying abstractions
Event Decomposition
Discussion of benefits of OOAD
Discussion of drawbacks of OOAD
Learning Outcomes: 1 & 5

Static Modelling in
UML

Requirements gathering
Natural Language Analysis
Candidate classes
Class diagrams
Converting class diagrams into code
Learning Outcomes: 1 & 5

Dynamic Analysis
and Design

Activity diagrams
Sequence diagrams
Converting dynamic models into code
Learning Outcomes: 1 & 5

OOAD Case Study

Worked example from problem statement to design

Learning Outcomes: 1, 3 & 5

Design Patterns 1

Introduction to design patterns

Factory
Abstract Factory
Learning Outcomes: 2, 3 & 4

Design Patterns 2

Model-View-Controller
Flyweight
Strategy
Facade
Learning Outcomes: 2, 3 & 4

Elements of Good
Design

Software quality attributes

Software component design
Coupling
Cohesion
The Observer design pattern
Learning Outcomes: 3 & 5

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Redesign and
Implementation

Maintenance and
Refactoring

Impact of change
Refactoring
Refactoring case study
Learning Outcomes: 4 & 7

Recap

Recap of Unit
Learning Outcomes: All

Redesign of case study

Incorporation of design patterns
Implementation of elements of previous design case study into
code
Learning Outcomes: 2 & 6

Related National Occupational Standards (NOS)

Sector Subject Area: 6.1 ICT Professionals
Related NOS: 4.3.P.1 Manage, under supervision, information to direct human needs
analysis assignments;
4.3.P.2 Produce, implement and maintain quality human needs analysis activities;
4.3.P.3 Provide human needs analysis findings to others;
4.4.P.1 Prepare, under supervision, for a systems analysis assignment;
4.4.P.2 Carry out, as required, systems analysis activities;
4.4.P.3 Monitor the effectiveness of systems analysis activities and their deliverables;
4.4.S.1 Design, implement and maintain systems analysis activities;
4.7.P.1 Prepare, under supervision, for system/solution/service design activities;
4.7.P.2 Assist with the design of system/solution/service design;
4.7.P.3 Monitor the progress of system/solution/service design activities;
5.1.S.2 - Initiate systems development activities;
5.3.S.3 - Manage systems development activities;
5.2.P.2 - Perform software development activities;
5.3.P.2 - Contribute to the communication of the results of IT/Technology solution testing;
5.3.S.1 - Implement the infrastructure for testing activities;
5.3.S.2 - Manage testing activities;
5.3.S.3 - Monitor and control testing activities.
Assessments
Local Examination (75%)
Global Assignment (25%)
See also Section 3 above

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5.5. Dynamic Websites

Title:
QCF code:

Dynamic Websites
Y/503/4786

Credits

Guided Learning Hours

Learning Outcomes;
The Learner will:

15

Level

60
Assessment Criteria;
The Learner can:

1. Understand the various tools and 1.1 Define and explain web applications and their
techniques
used
for
Web
functions
Application development
1.2 Identify and evaluate appropriate web
application development tools for a given
scenario
1.3 Identify and evaluate appropriate web
application development techniques for a
given scenario
2. Be able to develop data-driven 2.1 Design and code a web-based user interface
websites
appropriate to a given problem
2.2 Design and build a database which interacts
with a web page
2.3 Create scripts to facilitate data transfer
between a database and a web page.
2.4 Evaluate the functionality of a databasedriven website in the context of a given
problem
3. Be able to apply the various tools 3.1 Select appropriate web development tools for
and techniques used to build dataa given scenario
driven websites
3.2 Use a development tool to develop a dynamic
web solution which addresses a given
scenario
4. Understand the functions of web 4.1 Define and explain a range of web services
services
(e.g XML, RSS, SOAP).
4.2 Evaluate and select the optimal web service
solution for a given problem
4.3 Appraise the potential business benefits of
web services
5. Be able to create and deploy web 5.1 Use one or more web services to build a
services
dynamic website which addresses a given
business problem
5.2 Evaluate a dynamic website which utilises
web services in the context of business
objectives

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Syllabus content
Topic

Course coverage

Introduction to the
Unit

Introduction to the Unit

N-Tier Architectures
Introduction to layers and the tools used
Learning Outcomes: 1, 3, & 4

Introduction to PHP

Programming with PHP

Language design
Loops, Selections and Iterations
Version considerations
HTML via PHP
Learning Outcomes: 1 & 2

Cookies and
Sessions

Statelessness in HTTP
Cookies
Sessions
The role of PHP in web-based applications
Learning Outcomes: 1 & 2

MySQL and PHP

Creating tables via PHP

Manipulating tables via PHP
Querying database tables via PHP
Learning Outcomes: 2

Web Based
Protocols

XML
RSS
XHTML
CSS
Learning Outcomes: 1 & 3

Ajax (1)

Introduction to dynamic client side scripting with Java-script

Building a web-based user interface
JavaScript events
Asynchronous Applications
Learning Outcomes: 1 & 2

Ajax (2)

Manipulating the Document Object Model

XML DOM trees
Ajax requests and responses
jQuery
Learning Outcomes: 1 & 2

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Evaluation

Standards validation
User centred design
Accessibility
Browser compatibility
Learning Outcomes: 2 & 4

Web Services

SOAP
REST
Google Directions
Mash-Ups
Learning Outcomes: 4 & 5

jQuery

Overview of jQuery
Presentational Flourishes
Selectors
Filters
Callbacks
Learning Outcomes: 1, 2 & 3

jQuery and Ajax

jQuery and Ajax

jQuery plug-ins
jQuery widgets
Themeroller
Learning Outcomes: 1, 2 & 3

Integration

Integration of topics
Development of solution to meet a specified objective
Learning Outcomes: 3 & 5

Related National Occupational Standards (NOS)

Sector Subject Area: 6.1 ICT Professionals
Related NOS: 4.7.P.1 Prepare, under supervision, for system/solution/service design
activities;
4.7.P.2 Assist with the design of system/solution/service design;
4.7.P.3 Monitor the progress of system/solution/service design activities;
5.1.S.2 - Initiate systems development activities;
5.3.S.3 - Manage systems development activities;
5.2.P.2 - Perform software development activities
Assessments
Local Examination (75%)
Global Assignment (25%)
See also Section 3 above

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5.6. Database Design and Development

Title:
QCF code:

Database Design and Development

D/503/4787

Credits

Guided Learning Hours

Learning Outcomes;
The Learner will:

15

Level

60
Assessment Criteria;
The Learner can:

1. Understand
the
enterprise 1.1 Summarise the common use of distributed
application of database systems
database management systems
1.2 Explain the meaning of the term disributed
database management system
1.3 Describe the components of a disributed
database management system
1.4 Summarise the common use of data
warehouses
1.5 Explain the meaning of the term data
warehouse
1.6 Describe the structure of a data warehouse
2. Understand how to enhance the 2.1 Describe how tables that contain redundant
design of and further develop a
data can suffer from update anomalies
database system
2.2 Explain how to overcome update anomalies
using normalisation
2.3 Describe how to retrieve data from one or
more tables using SQL
3. Be able to enhance a logical 3.1 Check the tables are well-structured using
database design
normalisation
3.2 Define the integrity constraints on the tables
4. Be able to develop a physical 4.1 Map a logical database design to a physical
database design
database design
4.2 Design tables for a target DBMS
4.3 Design a representation of derived data
4.4 Design integrity constraints for the target
DBMS
4.5 Denormalise tables where appropriate
5. Be able to enhance a database 5.1 Apply integrity constraints
system using SQL
5.2 Retrieve data from one or more tables using
join
5.3 Retrieve data from one or more tables using
sub-queries

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Syllabus content
Topic

Course coverage

Key Concepts in
Databases and
Database
Management

Review of key material from Level 4 databases Unit

Common uses of databases
Types of databases
Overview of database development
Learning Outcomes: All

Enhancing Design 1

Introduction to normalisation
The concept of functional dependency
Data redundancy and update anomalies
Overcoming anomalies with normalisation
Learning Outcome: 2

Enhancing Design 2

Deriving a set of relations from a conceptual data model

Validating relations using normalisation
Integrity constraints on tables
Learning Outcome: 3

Data Retrieval 1

Table and view structure in a relational database

Data types
Null values
Retrieving data using SQL
Learning Outcome: 2

Data Retrieval 2

Referential integrity in relational databases

Types of joins
Retrieving data using joins
Retrieving data using sub-queries
Learning Outcome: 5

Physical Design 1

Physical Design 2

The concept of derived data

Designing a representation of derived data
Learning Outcome: 4

Physical Design 3

Types of constraints
Designing integrity constraints for the target DBMS
Learning Outcomes: 3, 4 & 5

The purpose of physical design

Mapping the logical database design to a physical database
design
Designing tables for the target DBMS
Learning Outcome: 4

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Physical Design 4

Understanding transactions
Denormalisation
Improving performance
Estimating the size of the database
Learning Outcome: 4

Distributed
Databases

The need for distributed databases

Components of distributed databases
Advantages and disadvantages of distributed databases
Homogenous and Heterogeneous distribution
Distributed Database Design
Learning Outcome: 1

Data Warehouses

Summary

The need for business intelligence and the concept of the data
warehouse
The difference between Online Transaction Processing (OLTP)
systems and data warehousing
The architecture and main components of a data warehouse
Learning Outcome: 1
Summary of Unit, linking units to objectives and to each other
Clarification of material and related issues as identified by
students
Learning Outcomes: All

Related National Occupational Standards (NOS)

Sector Subject Area: 6.1 ICT Professionals
Related NOS: 4.1.P.1 Contribute, under supervision, to the preparation of a data
analysis assignment;
4.1.P.2 Assist in the development of data analysis models;
4.1.P.3 Manage the outcomes from the data analysis assignment;
4.5.P.2 Manage, under supervision, the maintenance of data design assignments;
4.5.P.1 Provide others, when requested, with specified information relating to data
design activities;
4.5.S.1 Select and implement appropriate data design processes;
4.5.S.2 Manage the progress of data design assignments;
4.5.S.3 Review the effectiveness of data design deliverables.
Assessments
Global Examination (75%)
Global Assignment (25%)
See also Section 3 above

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5.7. Agile Development

Title:
QCF code:

Agile Development
J/503/4783

Credits

Guided Learning Hours

Learning Outcomes;
The Learner will:

15

Level

60
Assessment Criteria;
The Learner can:

1. Understand the background to Agile 1.1 Summarise the background to Agile

development
development
1.2 Explain Agile development in relation to
other development approaches
2. Understand the roles within an Agile 2.1 Explain the roles in an Agile development
development team
team
2.2 Evaluate the need for a particular role within
an Agile development team for a particular
project scenario
3. Understand the various
development techniques

Agile 3.1 Explain the various Agile development

techniques
3.2 Evaluate the need for a particular Agile
development technique for a particular
project scenario

4. Understand an Agile development 4.1 Describe an Agile development lifecycle

lifecycle
4.2 Explain the documentation required to
support an Agile development lifecycle
4.3 Evaluate the use of an Agile development
lifecycle for a particular project scenario
5. Understand
the
principles 5.1 Describe the principles associated with an
associated
with
an
Agile
Agile development approach
development approach
6. Be able to apply an Agile 6.1 Describe how to apply an Agile development
development
approach
to
a
approach to a particular problem scenario
particular project scenario
6.2 Suggest and justify the members of an Agile
development team for a particular project
scenario
6.3 Suggest and justify the use of particular
Agile development techniques for a
particular project scenario
6.4 Define a document set to support an Agile
development approach for a particular
project scenario
6.5 Populate a document set to support an Agile
development approach for a particular
project scenario

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Syllabus content
Topic

Course coverage

An Overview of Agile

An introduction and overview of the Agile Development Unit

What is Agile? - the history
What Agile Approaches
Learning Outcomes: 1 & 5

The Agile Approach

and Principles

What is DSDM Atern?

Philosophy of Agile and benefits
The 8 principles
The 5 key techniques
The Instrumental success factors
The Project Approach Questionnaire
Learning Outcomes: 1 & 5

Modelling

What is a model?
Links to the 8 principles
Viewpoints for modelling
Modelling within the Agile lifecycle

Learning Outcomes: 3 & 6

Roles, Skills and
Team Structures

Agile Team style (self-directing, empowered)

Agile team size and reasons
Project level roles and responsibilities
Solution Development Team roles and responsibilities
Specialist roles and other supporting roles
Learning Outcomes: 2 & 6

Lifecycle and
Products

The purpose of the configurable lifecycle

The 5 main phases and the two further phases of the lifecycle
For each phase:
- Objectives
- Preconditions
- Points to consider
Products related to lifecycle phases
The three essential perspectives for the products
Learning Outcomes: 4 & 6

Project Management
Considerations
Part 1: Control Risk

Key Differences in style between Traditional and Agile (Atern)

Project management
Control parameters in an Agile project
Communication including daily Stand Ups
Empowerment and escalation
Risk in an Agile project
Learning Outcomes: 1, 2 & 6

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Project Management
Considerations
Part 2: Quality and
Testing

Configuration Management
Quality and Maintainability
Testing concepts
Metrics
Learning Outcomes: 1, 2 & 6

Facilitated
Workshops

What is a Facilitated workshop?

The role of the Facilitator; co-facilitator/scribe; participants.
Workshop planning
Workshop success factors
Learning Outcome: 6

Requirements
Definition and
Prioritisation

What is a requirement in Agile?

Defining requirements: User story format (as a... I need... in
order to...)
Functional and non-functional requirements
Format and content of a requirement
The Prioritised Requirements List
MoSCoW as a key technique
Requirements and modelling
Learning Outcome: 6

Iterative
Development and
Prototyping

What is a prototype?
What is iterative development?
Prototyping perspectives:
- Functional
- Usability
- Non-functional
- Capability/Technique prototype: Architectural Spike and
Proof of Concept
Horizontal, Vertical and Combined development strategies
Prototyping: Identify, plan, evolve, review.
Iterative development as a key technique
Learning Outcome: 6

Estimating and
Timeboxing

The estimating process

Factors affecting an estimate
Estimating approaches
Problems with estimates
What is a timebox?
Timebox structure (Identify, plan, evolve, review) Timebox links
to MoSCoWed requirements
Delivery (increment) planning
Timebox planning
Timeboxing as a key technique
Learning Outcome: 6

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Unit Summary and

Revision Guidance

Revision
Learning Outcomes: All

Related National Occupational Standards (NOS)

Sector Subject Area: 6.1 ICT Professionals
Related NOS: 4.4.P.3 Monitor the effectiveness of systems analysis activities and their
deliverables;
4.4.S.1 Design, implement and maintain systems analysis activities;
4.4.S.2 Manage the systems analysis assignment activities;
4.4.S.3 Liaise with others on matters relating to systems analysis activities;
4.4.S.4 Review and sign off systems analysis outcomes
Assessments
Global Examination (75%)
Global Assignment (25%)
See also Section 3 above

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5.8. Computing Project

Title:
QCF code:

Computing Project
L/503/4784

Credits

15

Guided Learning Hours

Level

24

Learning Outcomes;
The Learner will:

Assessment Criteria;
The Learner can:

1. Identify
a
suitable computing 1.1 Select and justify an appropriate computing
artefact and development method
artefact to develop
2. Project manage the analysis, 2.1 Select and justify the use of an appropriate
design,
development
and
development method
deployment of a computing artefact
2.2 Produce a viable project plan
2.3 Check progress against a project plan
2.4 Evaluate his/her performance against a
project plan
2.5 Select and justify the use of an appropriate
risk management approach
2.6 Select and justify the use of an appropriate
configuration management approach
3. Carry out the analysis
computing artefact

for

a 3.1
3.2
3.3
3.4

Elicit requirements
Prioritise requirements
Produce a requirements specification
Produce an analysis specification

4. Design a computing artefact

4.1 Enhance requirements

4.2 Produce a design specification

5. Develop a computing artefact

5.1 Select and justify the use of an appropriate

development environment
5.2 Write the code for a computing artefact

6. Test a computing artefact

6.1 Develop appropriate test scripts

6.2 Test that a computing artefact meets its
requirements by using test scripts

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Syllabus content
Topic

Course coverage

Introduction

Appropriate Artefacts
Planning your Project
Appropriate Development Methods
Appropriate Risk Management
Appropriate Configuration Management
Learning Outcome: 2

Analysis
Specifications

Structure of an Analysis Specification

Content of an Analysis Specification
Learning Outcome: 3

Design Specifications

Structure of a Design Specification

Content of a Design Specification
Learning Outcomes: 4 & 5

Test Scripts

Types of Testing (Reminder)

Choosing Appropriate Tests
Applying Tests
Documenting Tests
Learning Outcome: 6

Planning the final

report

Structure of Final Report

Content of Final Report
Citations and Referencing (Reminder)
Appropriate Appendices
Learning Outcomes: 1, 2 & 3

Project and Report

Completion

Private study time should include weekly meetings with your

tutor to discuss your progress.
Project production
Learning Outcomes: 1 - 6

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Related National Occupational Standards (NOS)

Sector Subject Area: 6.1 ICT Professionals
Related NOS: 4.1.P.3 Manage the outcomes from the data analysis assignment;
4.2.S.1 Prepare for data analysis activities;
4.2.S.2 Manage effective data analysis activities;
4.2.S.3 Maintain effective data analysis deliverables;
4.3.P.1 Manage, under supervision, information to direct human needs analysis
assignments;
4.3.P.2 Produce, implement and maintain, quality human needs analysis activities;
4.3.P.3 Provide human needs analysis findings to others;
4.4.P.1 Prepare, under supervision, for a systems analysis assignment;
4.4.P.2 Carry out, as required, systems analysis activities;
4.4.P.3 Monitor the effectiveness of systems analysis activities and their deliverables;
4.4.S.1 Design, implement and maintain systems analysis activities;
4.4.S.2 Manage the systems analysis assignment activities;
4.4.S.3 Liaise with others on matters relating to systems analysis activities;
4.4.S.4 Review and sign off systems analysis outcomes;
4.5.P.1 Assist with the development for data design activities;
4.5.P.2 Manage, under supervision, the maintenance of data design assignments;
4.5.P.1 Provide others, when requested, with specified information relating to data
design activities;
4.5.S.1 Select and implement appropriate data design processes;
4.6.P.1 Prepare for human interaction and interface (HCI) design activities;
4.6.P.2 Implement, under supervision, human interaction and interface (HCI) design
activities;
4.6.P.3 Manage the needs of different users of HCI design activities;
4.7.P.1 Prepare, under supervision, for system/solution/service design activities;
4.7.P.2 Assist with the design of system/solution/service design;
4.7.P.3 Monitor the progress of system/solution/service design activities;
5.1.P.1 - Perform systems development activities;
5.1.P.2 - Contribute to the management of systems development;
5.3.S.3 - Manage systems development activities;
5.1.L.2 - Control systems development activities;
5.2.P.1 - Plan software development activities;
5.2.P.2 - Perform software development activities;
5.2.P.3 - Control software development activities;
5.2.P.4 - Contribute to the management of software development;
5.3.A.1 - Carry out IT/Technology solution testing activities under direction;
5.3.P.1 - Carry out IT/Technology solution testing;
5.3.P.2 - Contribute to the communication of the results of IT/Technology solution testing;
5.4.P.2 - Perform systems integration activities;
5.5.P.1 - Perform systems installation, implementation and handover activities;
5.5.P.2 - Document and present systems installation, implementation and handover
activities

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Assessments
Global Assignment (100%)
See also Section 3 above

L5DC Qualification Specification v1.0

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6. Results and Certificates

The grade descriptors Pass, Merit and Distinction are awarded by Unit to successful candidates. A
Pass is awarded for an overall Unit mark of between 40 and 59. A Merit is awarded for an overall
Unit mark of between 60 and 69 and a Distinction is awarded for an overall Unit mark of 70 and
above. Candidates who obtain an overall Unit mark of below 40 are classed as fail in the Unit and
may resit.
Grade Descriptors incorporate characteristics intended to provide a general indication of
assessment performance in relation to each Units Learning Outcomes in this specification. The final
Unit grade awarded will depend on the extent to which a candidate has satisfied the Assessment
Criteria. A qualification is awarded when the candidate has achieved at least a pass in all Units.
After each assessment cycle, results slips are issued (in electronic format) which detail the grades
achieved, i.e. Fail, Pass, Merit or Distinction (see Appendix 2). Certificates are then dispatched to
Centres.

7. Further Information
For more information about any of NCC Educations products please contact
[email protected] or alternatively please visit www.nccedu.com to find out more about
our suite of high-quality British qualifications.

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Appendix 1 Qualification Documentation

The following NCC Education documentation has been referred to in this specification:

Reasonable Adjustments and Special Considerations Policy

Examination Guidelines

Marking and Moderation Manual

Activity Schedule

Operations Manual

All documentation, together with access to NCC Educations online resources, is available to
Centres and (where applicable) candidates who have registered for assessment.

L5DC Qualification Specification v1.0

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Appendix 2 Grade Descriptors

The grade descriptors Pass, Merit and Distinction are awarded to successful candidates. The
following are characteristics intended to provide a general indication of assessment performance in
relation to each Learning Outcome in this specification.

Grade descriptors for Professional Issues in IT

Learning Outcome

Pass

Merit

Distinction

Understand the social,

ethical and professional
issues essential to the
IT profession

Demonstrate adequate
level of understanding

Demonstrate robust
level of understanding

Demonstrate highly
comprehensive level of
understanding

Understand a project
management life cycle
and associated
techniques

Demonstrate adequate
level of understanding

Demonstrate robust
level of understanding

Demonstrate highly
comprehensive level of
understanding

Understand how to
deploy a software
application

Demonstrate adequate
deployment of an
application

Demonstrate sound
and appropriate
deployment of an
application

Demonstrate highly
effective deployment of
an application

Understand risks and

the management of
them in software
projects

Demonstrate adequate
level of understanding

Demonstrate robust
level of understanding

Demonstrate highly
comprehensive level of
understanding

Understand the
principles and
techniques of IT
service management

Demonstrate adequate
level of understanding

Demonstrate robust
level of understanding

Demonstrate highly
comprehensive level of
understanding

Be able to design
software quality
policies and
procedures

Demonstrate ability to
perform the task

Demonstrate ability to
perform the task
consistently well

Demonstrate ability to
perform the task to the
highest standard

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Grade descriptors for Information Systems Analysis

Learning Outcome

Pass

Merit

Distinction

Understand soft and

hard approaches to the
analysis of information
systems

Demonstrate adequate
level of understanding

Demonstrate robust
level of understanding

Demonstrate highly
comprehensive level of
understanding

Understand the
techniques associated
with requirements
capture

Demonstrate adequate
understanding of
techniques

Demonstrate robust
understanding of
techniques

Demonstrate highly
comprehensive
understanding of
techniques

Understand the
different viewpoints
associated with IS
methodologies

Demonstrate adequate
level of understanding

Demonstrate robust
level of understanding

Demonstrate highly
comprehensive level of
understanding

Be able to apply
various analytical
techniques for
understanding a
complex organisational
environment

Demonstrate adequate
and appropriate
application of
techniques

Demonstrate sound
and consistently
appropriate application
of techniques

Demonstrate detailed
and highly appropriate
application of
techniques

Understand the
relationship between
the economic, social,
political and technical
factors influencing a
business problem

Demonstrate adequate
level of understanding

Demonstrate robust
level of understanding

Demonstrate highly
comprehensive level of
understanding

Understand and apply

the principles of
interface design and
the requirements and
characteristics of users
that motivate these

Demonstrate adequate
and appropriate
application of principles

Demonstrate sound
and consistently
appropriate application
of principles

Demonstrate detailed
and highly appropriate
application of principles

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Grade descriptors for Dynamic Websites

Learning Outcome

Pass

Merit

Distinction

Understand the various

tools and techniques
used for Web
Application
development

Demonstrate adequate
understanding of tools
and techniques

Demonstrate robust
understanding of tools
and techniques

Demonstrate highly
comprehensive
understanding of tools
and techniques

Be able to develop
data-driven websites

Show adequate
development

Show sound and

appropriate
development

Show innovative and

highly appropriate
development

Be able to apply the

various tools and
techniques used to
build data-driven
websites

Demonstrate adequate
and appropriate
application of tools and
techniques

Demonstrate sound
and consistently
appropriate application
of tools and techniques

Demonstrate detailed
and highly appropriate
application of tools and
techniques

Understand the
functions of web
services

Demonstrate adequate
level of understanding

Demonstrate robust
level of understanding

Demonstrate highly
comprehensive level of
understanding

Be able to create and

deploy web services

Demonstrate ability to
perform the task

Demonstrate ability to
perform the task
consistently well

Demonstrate ability to
perform the task to the
highest standard

L5DC Qualification Specification v1.0

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Grade descriptors for Database Design and Development

Learning Outcome

Pass

Merit

Distinction

Understand the
enterprise application
of database systems

Demonstrate adequate
level of understanding

Demonstrate robust
level of understanding

Demonstrate highly
comprehensive level of
understanding

Understand how to
enhance the design of
and further develop a
database system

Demonstrate ability to
perform the task

Demonstrate ability to
perform the task
consistently well

Demonstrate ability to
perform the task to the
highest standard

Be able to enhance a
logical database design

Demonstrate ability to
perform the task

Demonstrate ability to
perform the task
consistently well

Demonstrate ability to
perform the task to the
highest standard

Be able to develop a
physical database
design

Show adequate
development

Show sound and

appropriate
development

Show innovative and

highly appropriate
development

Be able to enhance a
database system using
SQL

Demonstrate ability to
perform the task

Demonstrate ability to
perform the task
consistently well

Demonstrate ability to
perform the task to the
highest standard

L5DC Qualification Specification v1.0

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Grade descriptors for Network Security and Cryptography

Learning Outcome

Pass

Merit

Distinction

Understand the most

common types of
cryptographic
algorithm

Demonstrate adequate
understanding of
common types of
cryptographic
algorithm

Demonstrate robust
understanding of
common types of
cryptographic
algorithm

Demonstrate highly
comprehensive
understanding of
common types of
cryptographic
algorithm

Understand the Publickey Infrastructure

Demonstrate adequate
level of understanding

Demonstrate robust
level of understanding

Demonstrate highly
comprehensive level of
understanding

Understand security
protocols for
protecting data on
networks

Demonstrate adequate
understanding of
security protocols

Demonstrate robust
understanding of
security protocols

Demonstrate highly
comprehensive
understanding of
security protocols

Be able to digitally sign

emails and files

Demonstrate ability to
perform the task

Demonstrate ability to
perform the task
consistently well

Demonstrate ability to
perform the task to the
highest standard

Understand
Vulnerability
Assessments and the
weakness of using
passwords for
authentication

Demonstrate adequate
level of understanding

Demonstrate robust
level of understanding

Demonstrate highly
comprehensive level of
understanding

Be able to perform
simple vulnerability
assessments and
password audits

Demonstrate ability to
perform the task

Demonstrate ability to
perform the task
consistently well

Demonstrate ability to
perform the task to the
highest standard

Be able to configure
simple firewall
architectures

Demonstrate adequate
level of understanding
and ability

Demonstrate robust
level of understanding
and ability

Demonstrate highly
comprehensive level of
understanding and
ability

Understand Virtual
Private Networks

Demonstrate adequate
level of understanding

Demonstrate robust
level of understanding

Demonstrate highly
comprehensive level of
understanding

Be able to deploy
wireless security

Demonstrate ability to
perform the task

Demonstrate ability to
perform the task
consistently well

Demonstrate ability to
perform the task to the
highest standard

L5DC Qualification Specification v1.0

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Grade descriptors for Analysis, Design and Implementation

Learning Outcome

Pass

Merit

Distinction

Understand the
seamless transition
from OO Analysis to
OO Design.

Demonstrate adequate
level of understanding

Demonstrate robust
level of understanding

Demonstrate highly
comprehensive level of
understanding

Understand how to
convert OO analysis
and design models to
code

Demonstrate ability to
perform the task

Demonstrate ability to
perform the task
consistently well

Demonstrate ability to
perform the task to the
highest standard

Understand the quality

attributes associated
with an OO
development

Demonstrate adequate
understanding of
quality attributes

Demonstrate robust
understanding of
quality attributes

Demonstrate highly
comprehensive
understanding of
quality attributes

Understand the
concept of
maintenance within an
OO development
environment

Demonstrate adequate
level of understanding

Demonstrate robust
level of understanding

Demonstrate highly
comprehensive level of
understanding

Be able to produce
OO analysis and design
models using a case
tool

Demonstrate ability to
perform the task

Demonstrate ability to
perform the task
consistently well

Demonstrate ability to
perform the task to the
highest standard

Be able to convert OO
analysis and design
models to code using
an appropriate IDE

Demonstrate ability to
perform the task

Demonstrate ability to
perform the task
consistently well

Demonstrate ability to
perform the task to the
highest standard

Be able to refactor an
OO programme to
improve quality

Demonstrate ability to
perform the task

Demonstrate ability to
perform the task
consistently well

Demonstrate ability to
perform the task to the
highest standard

L5DC Qualification Specification v1.0

Page 47 of 49

Grade descriptors for Agile Development

Learning Outcome

Pass

Merit

Distinction

Understand the
background to Agile
development

Demonstrate adequate
level of understanding

Demonstrate robust
level of understanding

Demonstrate highly
comprehensive level of
understanding

Understand the roles

within an Agile
development team

Demonstrate adequate
level of understanding

Demonstrate robust
level of understanding

Demonstrate highly
comprehensive level of
understanding

Understand the various

Agile development
techniques

Demonstrate adequate
understanding of
techniques

Demonstrate robust
understanding of
techniques

Demonstrate highly
comprehensive
understanding of
techniques

Understand an Agile
development lifecycle

Demonstrate adequate
level of understanding

Demonstrate robust
level of understanding

Demonstrate highly
comprehensive level of
understanding

Understand the
principles associated
with an Agile
development approach

Demonstrate adequate
level of understanding

Demonstrate robust
level of understanding

Demonstrate highly
comprehensive level of
understanding

Be able to apply an
Agile development
approach to a
particular project
scenario

Demonstrate ability to
perform the task

Demonstrate ability to
perform the task
consistently well

Demonstrate ability to
perform the task to the
highest standard

L5DC Qualification Specification v1.0

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Grade descriptors for Computing Project

Learning Outcome

Pass

Merit

Distinction

Identify a suitable
computing artefact and
development method

Utilise adequate
reasoning to inform
selection

Utilise sound reasoning

to inform appropriate
selection

Utilise highly
appropriate and
original reasoning to
inform appropriate
selection

Project manage the

analysis, design,
development and
deployment of a
computing artefact

Demonstrate ability to
perform the task

Demonstrate ability to
perform the task
consistently well

Demonstrate ability to
perform the task to the
highest standard

Carry out the analysis

for a computing
artefact

Demonstrate ability to
perform the task

Demonstrate ability to
perform the task
consistently well

Demonstrate ability to
perform the task to the
highest standard

Design a computing
artefact

Provide adequate
design to address the
specification

Provide detailed and

appropriate design to
address the
specification

Provide wholly
appropriate and
innovative design that
meets the specification

Develop a computing
artefact

Show adequate
development

Show sound and

appropriate
development

Show innovative and

highly appropriate
development

Test a computing
artefact

Demonstrate adequate
knowledge of testing
methodologies and
ability to implement

Demonstrate sound
knowledge of testing
methodologies and
ability to implement

Demonstrate
exceptional knowledge
of testing
methodologies and
ability to implement

L5DC Qualification Specification v1.0

Page 49 of 49