- An undergraduate course
in
Engineering, Technology and Design.
Technologies in practice
- On this page
| Course facts | |
|---|---|
| About this course: | |
| Course code | TM129 |
| Credits | 30 |
| OU Level | 1 |
| SCQF level | 7 |
| FHEQ level | 4 |
| Course work includes: | |
| 3 Tutor-marked assignments (TMAs) | |
| 1 Interactive computer-marked assignment (iCMA) | |
| End-of-module assessment | |
| No residential school | |
This course provides an opportunity to sample some of the key areas in computing and information technology. You will be introduced to three topics as tasters for your future studies and career: networking, Linux and robotics. Studying these topics will enable you to develop essential skills if you are considering future employment in the computing and IT industry. You will be applying what you learn to develop a portfolio, to demonstrate your skills and understanding in these areas to potential employers. By studying this key introductory Level 1 course you can also begin to explore where your future career ambitions or interests might lie.
Register for the course
What you will study
The course is structured into three study blocks, each based upon a key area in computing and IT, followed by the development of a portfolio on which your final assessment will be based.
You will study both OU materials and third party materials that support your learning in the three key topics.
Block 1 – Linux: an introduction introduces you to one of the most extensively used operating systems worldwide. You’ll examine the many similarities that exist between Linux and other popular operating systems and also the diverse technology available in the Linux community. The study materials for this block are all online and you’ll be provided with tools to access free versions of Linux to install on your computer in order to carry out associated practical activities.
Block 2 – Networking computers provides a sound grounding in the basic principles of computer networks and the challenges in setting these up and maintaining them. Topics covered include protocol models and layering; IP addressing; basic network design and network devices. A third party source will be used to introduce these concepts and your learning will be supported through computer-based practical exercises.
Block 3 – Robotics will introduce you to robotics and the design of intelligent machines. Robots are no longer the stuff of fiction: they are found not just in factories, but on the battlefield and in our homes. You will learn how robots work and how to program and control robots using the specially written software we provide. (This software was written for Microsoft Windows but will run under emulation on recent Apple Mac and Linux computers after the installation of additional software – instructions will be provided.) You will also examine the relationships between humans and robots, the enormous impact they will have on our lives, and the ethical issues surrounding robots.
As you progress through the course, you will develop a portfolio of your work for the various practical activities which relate to each block. This will help demonstrate to potential employers your skills and understanding in the areas you have studied. The portfolio will also be the main component of the end-of-module assessment. Working on the portfolio will help you to think about your future career interests and will inform decisions you need to make on your future areas of study.
You will learn
This course will enable you to:
- increase your knowledge of operating systems (in particular the Linux operating system); computer networks, robotics and intelligent machines
- develop a variety of skills appropriate to a career in the computing and IT industry
- demonstrate your understanding of technical subjects and technical skills through the development of a portfolio.
Vocational relevance
This course has a vocational relevance to those wishing to develop a career in the IT industry as you have the opportunity to demonstrate practically, how operating systems allow robots to be programmed and computers exchange information.
Entry
This is a key introductory Level 1 course providing you with the core subject knowledge and study skills needed for both higher education and distance learning and to help you progress to courses at Level 2.
You will need to be able to carry out all the following activities on your computer as part of studying this course: writing with a word-processor; saving and locating files; installing software; following basic instructions that enable you to explore your computer and undertake basic computing tasks; and accessing a website. You should also be able to read and understand written English and write clearly in English.
If you have any doubt about the suitability of the course, please contact our Student Registration & Enquiry Service.
Preparatory work
You will need to ensure you have a broadband account with an internet service provider (ISP) before the course begins.
Regulations
As a student of The Open University, you should be aware of the content of the Module Regulations and the Student Regulations which are available on our Essential documents website.
If you have a disability
The course includes significant amounts of work with a computer. The course team is aware that disabled students may be using additional hardware or software; some of this may not work effectively with the course software. Every effort is being made to collect information about this and to make as many components as possible accessible. Please contact the Student Registration & Enquiry Service at the earliest available opportunity who will help you to find the latest information about accessibility.
Alternative formats of the study materials may be available in the future. Our Services for disabled students website has the latest information about availability.
If you have particular study requirements please tell us as soon as possible, as some of our support services may take several weeks to arrange. Visit our Services for disabled students website for more information, including:
- help to determine your study requirements and how to request the support that you need
- Disabled Students' Allowances (DSAs)
- using a computer for OU study
- equipment and other support services that we offer
- examination arrangements
- how to contact us for advice and support both before you register and while you are studying.
Study materials
What's included
Study texts, some of which will be online, website, specialised software, a DVD and online discussion forums.
You will need
Broadband internet access and a headset with a microphone and earphones to take part in online tutorials.
Computing requirements
You will need a computer with internet access to study this course as it includes online activities, for use with a web browser. There is also software to download and install on your computer.
- If you have purchased a new desktop or laptop computer running Windows since 2007 you should have no problems completing the computer-based activities.
- If you’ve got a netbook, tablet or other mobile computing device you may have difficulties with some software, check our Technical requirements section.
- If you have an Apple Mac or Linux computer – please note that you can only use it for this course by running Windows on it using Boot Camp or a similar dual-boot system.
You can also visit the Technical requirements section for further computing information including the details of the support we provide.
Materials to buy
Set books
- Asimov I I Robot, Voyager £14.99 - ISBN 9780007491513 (This book is not required for February 13 Presentation. Any edition of either 'I Robot' or 'The Complete Robot' by Asimov I, ISBN9780586057247 can be purchased. Second-hand copies from internet retailers such as www.amazon.co.uk or www.abebooks.co.uk can also be used)
Teaching and assessment
Support from your tutor
You will have a tutor who will help you with the study material and who will mark and provide feedback on your written work. Your tutor is the first point of contact for any queries on the course and you can ask them for advice and guidance.
Contact our Student Registration & Enquiry Service if you want to know more about study with The Open University before you register.
Assessment
The assessment details for this course can be found in the facts box above.
You must use the online eTMA system to submit your tutor-marked assignments (TMAs).
Future availability
The details given here are for the course that starts in October 2013 and February 2014. We expect it to be available twice a year.
How to register
To register a place on this course return to the top of the page and use the Click to register button.
Distance learning
The Open University is the world’s leading provider of flexible, high quality distance learning. Unlike other universities we are not campus based. You will study in a flexible way that works for you whether you’re at home, at work or on the move. As an OU student you’ll be supported throughout your studies – your tutor or study adviser will guide and advise you, offer detailed feedback on your assignments, and help with any study issues. Tuition might be in face-to-face groups, via online tutorials, or by phone.
For more information read Distance learning explained.
Undergraduate
| Course facts | |
|---|---|
| About this course: | |
| Course code | TM129 |
| Credits | 30 |
| OU Level | 1 |
| SCQF level | 7 |
| FHEQ level | 4 |
| Course work includes: | |
| 3 Tutor-marked assignments (TMAs) | |
| 1 Interactive computer-marked assignment (iCMA) | |
| End-of-module assessment | |
| No residential school | |
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