Computing

This module covers the theory and practice of systems analysis and design. It also moves beyond traditional methodologies to introduce new AI-driven approaches, to develop dynamic and often non-deterministic systems. Following by the analysis of complex data storage requirements and the design of appropriate databases to meet those expectations. The module covers the complete lifecycle of systems analysis and database specification from investigation of the problem domain and construction of system requirements and data models; through mapping those models into a relational database environment. Theoretical issues relating to database technology, such as relational theory, modern non-relational data models are discussed alongside the ethical considerations in data protection, security and privacy.

This module covers business, theoretical and practical aspects of computer systems and operating systems and introduces modern computer networks which moves beyond static configurations to self-managing systems and autonomous networks that predict issues such as congestion or attacks, to adapt in real-time for better performance, resilience, and user experience. The module discusses the methodologies and tools of modern software and network systems, applied to the IT, business strategy and business transformations. It covers aligning IT with business processes to achieve organisational goals and objectives, as well as using IT as a strategic business tool and as an enabler to achieve digital business transformation. Consideration will be given to the ethical dimension regarding data governance and big data solutions.

Digital commerce has grown to transform business and the way it interacts with customers and other business stakeholders. In implementing and planning for e-commerce, organisations have to effectively strategies towards its integration and implementation. This module introduces students to e-commerce as a key type of information system. Strategies for e-commerce are explored, from building an e-commerce presence, and developing a business plan to designing the user experience and evaluating suitable marketing plans. It also explores the implications of AI and how AI can be used responsibly as digital commerce enabler. Finally, you will be provided with an opportunity to implement their designs in the form of a prototype, using suitable applications (e.g., Figma, Adobe XD, Wix, etc.). Examples of some topics covered include:

• Foundational concepts of e-commerce
• Building an e-commerce presence
• Business strategy, user experience, and marketing in e-commerce
• Ethical, social and political implications of e-commerce in the era of AI
• e-commerce application requirements gathering
• Pathways for developing e-commerce applications
• Extensibility and integrations in e-commerce applications

In addition to gaining greater knowledge and skills regarding digital commerce, you will enhance your general academic and employability through skills such as critical thinking, analysis, reasoning, and interpretation.

This module introduces human factors and ethical issues that need to be considered when designing interactive intelligent systems. You will explore research methodologies (i.e. quantitative and qualitative methods) across a range of technological examples and will support knowledge, skills and expertise in the theory and practice of human-computer interaction (HCI), ethics by design (EbD), responsible AI, responsible research and innovation (RRI) and the ethical and secure human factors design in AI. The module will develop your ability to consider the stages of research regarding human factors and ethics covering technical, social, cultural and legal aspects of AI human factors research for advanced expertise that will feed into their MSc Final Project. You will consider different methodologies such as questionnaires, interviews and experiments and consider how theory and practice are aligned in human factors and ethical design. You will be required to prepare an individual presentation and write a 2500-word dissertation on these issues.

The aim of the project/dissertation is to provide students with the opportunity to carry out a self-managed in-depth study involving design, fact finding, analysis, synthesis and integration of complex ideas which are sometimes based on incomplete and contradictory data or requirements. The project is likely to demonstrate the application of skills acquired from the taught course to the solution to a particular problem or research topic. Normally the project is a self-contained piece of work of considerably greater depth than can be accommodated within a taught module and may reflect and build on the entire breadth of material studied by yourself