Core Body of Knowledge for Information Technology Professionals (Skills Assessment for Migration Purposes Only)
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Alan Underwood,FACS,PCP
Approved by Council on 20 September 1997 For the Core Body of Knowledge latest version 2008, please click here |
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The Australian Computer Society Incorporated |
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Table of Contents 1. Preamble 2. Introduction 3. The Areas of Knowledge 4. Implementing the Areas of Knowledge 5. Curricula Proposals 5.1 Computer Organisation and Architecture 5.2 Conceptual Modelling 5.3 Database Management 5.4 Data Communications and Networks 5.5 Data Structures and Algorithms 5.6 Discrete Mathematics 5.7 Ethics/Social Implications/Professional Practice 5.8 Interpersonal Communications 5.9 Program Design and Implementation 5.10 Project Management and Quality assurance 5.11 Information Security 5.12 Software Engineering and Methodologies 5.13 Systems Analysis and Design 5.14 Systems Software 6. Acknowledgements References Attachment 1 - A Conceptual Model of I.T. RelatedGroups |
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5.8 Interpersonal Communications Preamble This topic deals with individual behaviour and group dynamics and the application of these principles to the system development process. There has been a consistent comment from employers that a high level of interpersonal communication ability is an essential attribute of IT staff at all levels. It is important that those seeking employment in this profession appreciate that it is largely people-centred rather than technology-centred. Table of topics
As well as acquiring general communication skills, IT professionals should appreciate the working environment in which they are exercised. Specific areas in which these skills need to be employed include :
Preamble This unit deals with the ability to specify a solution to a problem in a form which is able to be converted to a machine-executable product which will produce the correct result for a specified problem. It encompasses the ability to design a solution to a problem, preferably in a form which is independent of the target programming language for its implementation, to translate that design into the syntax of a programming language and to produce an executable program which is correct, efficient and maintainable. The unit also encompasses the aspects of software documentation which are essential to the effective use of the software during its lifetime. Table of topics
It is expected that candidates will have a working knowledge of at least one language in one of the contemporary paradigms. They will be able to design, code, test, implement and document programs of a moderate complexity in terms of the nature of the problem and the data structures and processing techniques required for its solution. 5.10 Project Management and Quality AssurancePreamble This area deals with the methods and problems of managing and assuring the quality of computing system projects, particularly from the viewpoint of the practitioner as a member of the project team. The area takes a balanced approach to software quality in that there is a focus on both product and process issues. Factors that impact quality outcomes associated with all phases of development are addressed. Throughout there should be a constructive focus on quality; that is, quality requirements are planned and specified, processes are then put in place to satisfy these requirements, and these processes are supported by integral processes which ensure that the quality requirements have been satisfied. Table of Topics
An understanding of the principles, techniques and tools of project management are essential in the management of the inherent complexities of the systems development lifecycle. The study of this area presumes there have been previous studies in systems analysis and software engineering which covers the software life-cycle and the use of associated standards. Proficiency in programming in at least one language is also expected. 5.11 SecurityPreamble Information technology professionals are increasingly responsible for the incorporation of security services and mechanisms into overall information systems under development and in operation. This responsibility is expected to increase as national and international Guidelines and legislation are developed and enforced. The I.T. Professional will need to be familiar with Social, Governmental and Legal requirements in this area and to incorporate appropriate technologies into systems during the development phase with appropriate levels of security management created for ongoing usage of the systems. Table of topics
5.12 Software Engineering and Methodologies Preamble This unit deals with the design and implementation of programs and large software systems that meet specifications and are safe, secure, reliable, dependable and maintainable. It includes models of the software development process, requirements analysis, specification, design, implementation, validation and verification, documentation and the use of appropriate software tools. Table of topics
Candidates should be exposed to the practices of "programming in the large". It is expected that software assignments will be managed along the same lines as would be used for the development and implementation of large, complex systems. The emphasis of this area is not merely the writing of programs but the team interaction and project management which is an integral part of a large software system. There must be an underlying theme of producing software which is of the quality expected by the user and which meets the user's specifications. |
