Overview
Please Note: No course extension is available for COMP 601.
COMP 601 is a first course in information systems for graduate students in the Master of Science (Information Systems) program at Athabasca University. It provides an overview of topics relevant to graduate students, including research, presentation of academic material, ethics, project management, and learning objects as well as a background in information systems and related topics required by courses in the graduate program.
Learning outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, you should be able to
- explore the Athabasca University library, ACM, and IEEE catalogues to source information needed for other graduate courses and graduate research.
- assess information sources for probable reliability, timeliness, and other key factors; support assessments with sound analytical discussion.
- select and use appropriate electronic communications systems for discussion, reflection, and collaborative work.
- present information in a variety of forms, including summaries, full technical reports, and multimedia presentations.
- write academic essays following standard academic essay design criteria, including an abstract, references, and attribution of the work of others used in creating the essay.
- discuss current topics in information and computer technology based on personal research and the research of colleagues.
- articulate design decisions and create a personal notebook describing learning experiences, which forms a portfolio of competence.
Evaluation
In order to receive credit for COMP 601, you must achieve a cumulative course grade of "B-" (70 percent) or better, and must achieve an average grade of at least 60 percent on the assignments and achieve a grade of at least 60 percent on the Take-home Examination. Your cumulative course grade will be based on the following assessment.
Activity | Weight |
Assignment 1 | 10% |
Assignment 2 | 10% |
Assignment 3 (Project) | 30% |
Assignment 4 | 10% |
Collaboration | 10% |
Take-home Test | 30% |
Total | 100% |
Materials
All learning materials for COMP 601 are delivered through Athabasca University’s learning management system, Moodle, and on the Landing, AU’s social learning space. Online course materials include study guide, discussion forums, learning objects, and assignments.
Assignments will be submitted online.
Special Course Features
COMP 601 is offered completely online and can be completed at the student’s workplace or home. It is a required course for all students in the MSc IS program.
Special Note
Students registered in this course will NOT be allowed to take an extension due to the nature of the course activities.