Introduction to Information Systems and Data Representation

RATIONALE

The module Introduction to Information Systems and Data Representation provides an introductory overview of one of the most significant aspects of modern computing: the interaction between information systems and the information (data) that is used to guide the majority of day-to-day activities across the globe. The module explores basic concepts of database design, how data is represented in information systems and the various mechanisms that can be employed to manipulate and analyze datasets using computer software. The module will provide the foundational knowledge needed to understand how data can be used in the context of computing and information technology. It will also provide the knowledge of how this data can be used in conjunction with specific information systems to carry out simple to advanced data manipulation and analysis tasks.

AIMS

The aims of this module are to:

• Develop an understanding of how information and communication technology can be used to access and manipulate data and information
• Describe the different types of data structures and their uses
• Describe the role of algorithms in problem solving
• Explore the methods in which a computer or information system understands data 
• Equip students with the skills needed perform data manipulation tasks on any type of dataset

LEARNING OUTCOMES

Upon successful completion of this module, students are expected to be able to:

1. Describe the concept of an Information System
2. Explain how information systems can be used to access, store, retrieve and generate data 
3. Describe and compare the different types of data structures and how they are used for storing and organizing data
4. Understand how to create algorithms that can be used to solve simple to complex computing-related problems
5. Describe the different ways in which a computer can understand and represent (data representation)
6. Employ a range of data manipulation and analysis tasks on small to medium size datasets