Associate Degree of Applied Information Technology

To operate effectively within any information system, an understanding of the theory and practice of database management systems is essential. This subject is designed to deepen students' interest and expertise in databases in general with a focus on cloud databases. A cloud database stores/processes data on the cloud. We start by looking at how database systems have evolved. The subject is mainly concerned with the relational data model and students learn the basics of database design using entity-relationship diagrams and how this design can then be mapped onto the relational model. A significant part of the subject is devoted to the use of structured query language (SQL). A commercial database management system will be used throughout the subject to provide hands-on skills. Foundations of normalising as well as data security will also be discussed. This subject is designed to prepare students for undertaking an associated vendor certification.

In this subject, students are introduced to the concept of an information system (IS) including file design, input/output/interface design, file conversion and implementation techniques. This subject deals with systems development life cycle as a framework for IS development and emphasises the role and involvement of users in an IS project. The use of appropriate fact-finding techniques in systems analysis and an introduction to data flow and E-R modelling are covered. Several information system case studies are used to illustrate the concepts introduced. Students will receive hands-on experience in the construction of a small information system using a suitable prototyping tool.

Appropriate information systems infrastructure is crucial to the successful operation of any organisation. This subject covers the selection and implementation of systems infrastructure dependent on client needs. There is a focus on the setup and troubleshooting of machine hardware and networks and the configuration of operating systems. This subject is designed to prepare students for undertaking an associated vendor certification.

This subject provides a general introduction to the breadth of the field of information technology. Areas covered include the main components and operation of IT devices, data storage and retrieval, networks, programming and website development.

In this subject, we lay the foundation for internetworking. Basic building blocks of internetworking in terms of two main reference models are introduced. Two main reference models, OSI and TCP/IP, are examined in detail, mainly by analysing each layer’s functionality and different protocols involved. A few of the critical concepts in network design like IP addressing, IP subnetting, VLSM, IP routing, local area network technologies (Ethernet), switching and packet analysis are also introduced with a practical approach as an enabler to perform small network designs. This subject is designed to prepare students for undertaking an associated vendor certification.

Students are introduced to object-oriented programming concepts through a contemporary programming language. Topics covered include classes and objects, encapsulation and inheritance, primitive data types, flow of control, methods, basic input/output and arrays. Software engineering principles are introduced, including coding standards, class design and testing strategies.

In this subject, students are introduced to the environments, tools, techniques and methods of thinking needed to analyse simple data processing problems and develop effective and efficient software solutions. It is assumed that participants have no previous exposure to programming.

In this subject, students are introduced to developing and implementing a workplace sustainability policy in line with a current theoretical framework and modifying it to suit the interconnections between the economy, society and the environment. Students identify, analyse and evaluate information to develop, monitor and modify organisational policies in accordance with legislative and organisational goals and changing business circumstances. During this process, they are required to communicate and consult with internal and external stakeholders. The subject also introduces students to planning, sequencing and using systematic and analytical processes to research and gather data and to evaluate outcomes of decision-making to identify improvement. This subject addresses La Trobe’s Sustainability Thinking Essential. Sustainability Thinking entails deep appreciation of how the choices we make affect the natural, economic, social, political and cultural systems – now and in the future.

This subject is an introduction to discrete mathematics. Concepts in discrete mathematics are useful in several branches of computer science as computers operate in discrete binary states. Among the topics covered are: sets, functions, relations, counting, sequences, modular arithmetic and Big-O notation. All these topics are central to the application of mathematics in electronics and computer science.

LAN switching and IP routing are the two key enablers of internetworking. This subject mainly focuses on how the switching technologies are implemented in a network and how we can secure access to a network in switch level using port-security and enhance performance of a network by using VLANs. The other main aspect covered in this subject is IP routing. Key concepts of IP routing together with different types of routing and routing protocols are carefully analysed to make critical decisions on which routing type or protocol is most suitable for a given scenario. Also, practical implementation of each of these key features is covered in a simulated environment.

This subject further develops and adds to the tools and techniques introduced in CSE1ISX: Information Systems. Major topics include information systems development strategies, project management, requirements modelling, domain modelling, behavioural modelling, structural modelling and dynamic modelling. Students will learn to use Unified Modelling Language (UML) for the analysis and design phases of IS. They will gain the ability to apply knowledge of basic science and software engineering fundamentals to information systems analysis and design.

The object-oriented programming (OOP) approach allows for the streamlined development of complex programming solutions. This subject aims to build on the knowledge and skills with object-oriented programming gained in prior studies. The subject delves more deeply into object-oriented programming concepts and how they can be applied to develop more complex and innovative programming solutions. Previously learnt software engineering skills are also further developed.

Web pages provide an interface for users to view and manage all manner of information from IT systems across the globe. In this subject, students will design and develop functional web pages using contemporary client and server-side web technologies including scripting languages. The subject also covers the logical design of web interfaces and the application of usability testing in the successful development of web pages.

This subject covers multiple WAN technologies and how these are configured in different network scenarios. Students will apply their knowledge to implement appropriate WAN connectivity options on given network scenarios. Also, this covers a few of the crucial functional areas of network infrastructure such as managing, maintaining and securing the network infrastructure. This subject is designed to prepare students for the opportunity to undertake a vendor certification on networking.

This subject covers the skills and knowledge required for the deployment of network servers based on an operating system. Techniques and skills for system administration are developed throughout the course of this subject. It further validates the candidate's technical abilities in understanding the architecture of an operating system, installing and configuring an operating system, working at the operating systems command line, handling files and access permissions as well as system security and performing certain maintenance tasks such as backup and restore. This subject is designed to prepare students for undertaking a vendor certification on Linux operating system.

This subject addresses a wide spectrum of fundamental technical concepts relating to client-side web programming including creating HTML pages, writing CSS to enhance the look of HTML pages, using JavaScript and the JQuery library to implement the underlying logic, and specialised topics such as drawing, web storage, geolocation, exception handling, event handling, asynchronous programming, serialization and parallel programming. This subject is designed to prepare students for the opportunity of undertaking a vendor certification on HTML5 and JavaScript.

This subject introduces students to the fundamentals of machine learning (history, algorithm types, uses) and then covers an efficient implementation of machine learning algorithms on real-world data of moderate complexity using an open source ecosystem and MapReduce and R environments. Students explore the practical aspects of this subject using the AWS platform.

This subject focuses on the skills and knowledge required to manage information and communications technology projects in the cloud. The subject takes a practical approach by taking students from the project planning stage to the project closure stage. It covers conducting a feasibility study, how to establish and work effectively in a project team, financial planning, project management tools and software, and project management methodologies. It provides students with an opportunity to gain practical skills and knowledge in using various project management tools that are available in the cloud.

This subject is an introduction to mobile application development, including programming paradigms, models, technologies and platforms. Topics include the design of mobile applications, and their implementation on popular platforms such as Android, iOS and Windows (mobile versions). The unique considerations for programming with mobile devices will be studied, including application architectures, mobile user interface issues, context-aware computing, the use of mobile sensing, middleware, mobile data management, and programming with wireless connections. Cross-platform development on a range of mobile and wearable form factors will be discussed, from smartphones, to tablets of varying sizes.

In this subject, students are introduced to modern operating systems and their major components. Students will learn these concepts by working on an operating system. Process and memory management, file systems, system management and several other concepts are also covered.

This subject provides an understanding of virtualisation concepts and exposure to different virtualisation solutions. Students will utilise this knowledge to design, implement and manage a virtualisation solution for a given scenario. The practicality of using virtualisation on cloud is particularly emphasised.

In this subject you will be introduced to a number of moral frameworks that you will use to analyse ethical issues for management. You will participate in innovative and challenging learning experiences/processes via the completion of online tasks. You will adopt relevant roles to participate in a high-level, ethics and rights discussion and debate to consider issues relating to organisations, global trade, advertising, the environment, politics, corruption and governance and the person as an individual. Working individually and in teams, within a collaborative learning environment, you will explore and analyse relevant literatures to develop moral reasoning in order to present an ethically based case to their peers and/or external parties.

Innovation is a hot topic in business today, but what does it really mean, how is it different to creativity and how do companies successfully innovate? This subject addresses these questions and more, while providing you with practical strategies to enhance your creativity and develop an innovation mindset. You will study the principles of innovation across strategy, systems, processes and culture. You will apply your research and critical thinking skills to identify, evaluate and assess opportunities to innovate. You will also develop skills to plan, implement and evaluate innovation strategies that make a positive difference to a customer’s perceived value. This subject uses a case-based approach, where you will investigate various innovation case studies from a range of companies around the world to examine how they innovate.

This subject provides you with individual, consumer and managerial understanding of consumer behaviour principles and theories. You will analyse psychological, sociocultural, and situational factors influencing consumer decision-making processes and the role of consumer behaviour in the development of effective marketing strategies. Throughout the subject, you will develop skills of relevance for understanding and managing consumer behaviour including problem-solving, critical thinking, interpretation and analysis, and micro-blog writing.

Brands are a key source of competitive advantage for firms. Yet, building and maintaining a strong brand in an increasingly digital environment is an ongoing challenge. In this subject, you will learn the fundamental principles and theories of branding that apply across all contexts. You will also explore how branding is changing in the face of digital disruption, and how marketers are using digital marketing strategies to build strong brands across multiple channels and retail platforms. At the end of the course, you will have put yourself in the shoes of a brand manager and developed the necessary skills to measure, manage and optimise brand performance within a highly complex modern world.

In this online subject, undergraduate students are given the opportunity to undertake 100-120 hours of work placement in for profit, not for profit, NGO or government enterprises - either within Australia or overseas. Students engage in a professional setting that promotes the development of workplace acumen, professional skills, agency and self-efficacy. The subject includes the opportunity to combine hands-on experience with theoretical platforms of reflection and evaluation - a skill that enhances students' employability and self-awareness. In self-sourced or arranged placements, students learn to understand and meaningfully interact with a variety of factors driving, challenging and inspiring the world of work.

In this subject you will explore the strategic and operational issues involved in managing staff in the workplace. You will examine the challenges facing human resource managers in contemporary Australian organisations and develop an understanding of human resource management practices in our continually changing social, economic, industrial relations and organisational environments. You will explore the reasons underpinning the increasing recognition of human resource management (HRM) within organisations as well as the field’s underlying purposes. Throughout this subject an emphasis is placed on a strategic approach to HRM in addition to the functional and operational aspects.

In this subject, students are introduced to some of the core principles of contract and consumer protection law, the law of negligence and property law. In addition, students are exposed to ethical standards that apply to business activities, such as contractual relationships and special legal protections against unethical business practices. The subject also adopts a skills-based learning approach. It does this through teaching the basic techniques of legal problem-solving and promoting an understanding of the dynamic nature of the law. These skills prepare students for more advanced law subjects as well as their professional careers.

Organisations operate in a global economy. As a manager and leader, it is your responsibility to get the best out of your employees and respond to customer needs. In this subject you will develop the practical skills for the next generation leading in a diverse workforce. Managing diversity isn't just about abiding by legal obligations, it's about recognising and valuing human differences and being able to create an inclusive environment, where employees have the opportunity to achieve their full potential. This subject will help you to develop a deep understanding of diversity and so create an inclusive workplace. You'll reflect on your own attitudes and biases, as well as researching strategies, policies and practices that develop and promote a diverse, inclusive workforce.

This subject will develop and enhance your appreciation of how constant and/or evolutionary changes to the international business environment influence the operations and conduct of domestic and cross-border for-profit and not-for-profit enterprises. You will examine key strategic and structural drivers and tools that support globalisation and the establishment of multinational enterprises. You will be exposed to the models, approaches and challenges of successful cross-cultural management, negotiations, communications, and knowledge transfer.

Business managers request, assess, purchase and use marketing research to make a wide number of informed decisions. You will come to understand what marketing research can provide, what research methods are appropriate for different types of problems, and how results should be interpreted. The aim of this subject is to give you the knowledge and skills, as either a future business manager or a marketing research practitioner, to make intelligent decisions in your specification, evaluation and application of marketing research in real everyday life and the digital era.