Learning Area Leader: Mr Mark Comas
Unit 3 – Software Development (Code: DISD33)
Description
In this unit students apply the problem-solving methodology to develop working software modules using an object-oriented programming (OOP) language. Students develop an understanding of the analysis, design and development stages of the problem-solving methodology.
Areas of Study 1 - Software development: programming
In this area of study, students interpret the requirements and designs for developing working software modules. Students use a common OOP language and undertake the problem-solving activities of manipulation (programming), validation, testing and documentation in the development stage.
Outcome
On completion of this unit the student should be able to interpret teacher-provided solution requirements and designs and use appropriate features of an object-oriented programming language to develop working software modules.
Area of Study 2 - Software development: analysis and design
In this area of study, students prepare for the development of a software solution that meets a student-identified problem, need or opportunity. This is the first part of the School-assessed Task, involving analysis and design, with the second part undertaken in Unit 4, Area of Study 1.
Outcome
On completion of this unit the student should be able to document a problem, need or opportunity, formulate a project plan, document an analysis, and generate design ideas and a preferred design for creating a software solution.
Unit 4 – Software Development (Code: DISD44)
Description
In this unit, students focus on how the needs of individuals and organisations are met through the development of software solutions using an object-oriented programming (OOP) language and consider the cyber security risks to organisations as a result of insecure software development practices.
Areas of Study 1 - Software development: development and evaluation
In this area of study, students develop the solution they designed in Unit 3, Area of Study 2 into a software solution that meets their identified problem, need or opportunity by applying the problem-solving stages of development and evaluation.
Outcome
On completion of this unit the student should be able to develop and evaluate a software solution that meets requirements and assess the effectiveness of the project plan.
Area of Study 2 - Cybersecurity: secure software development practices
The secure development of software is crucial within the modern technology and development landscape. Insecure software development environments are problematic for organisations that develop software, regardless of whether solution development occurs internally or is conducted by a secondary organisation. In this area of study, students focus on the security risks to organisations as a result of insecure software development environments and practices.
Outcome
On completion of this unit the student should be able to respond to a teacher-provided case study to analyse an organisation’s software development practices, identify and evaluate current security controls and threats to software development practices, and make recommendations to improve practices.
Unit 3 & 4 Assessment
· Unit 3 School Assessed Coursework = 10%
· Unit 4 School Assessed Coursework = 10%
· School Assessed Task = 30%
· Written Examination = 50%