Durham University
Programme and Module Handbook

Undergraduate Programme and Module Handbook 2023-2024 (archived)

Module BUSI2151: INFORMATION SYSTEMS

Department: Management and Marketing

BUSI2151: INFORMATION SYSTEMS

Type Tied Level 2 Credits 20 Availability Available in 2023/24 Module Cap None. Location Durham
Tied to N201
Tied to N203
Tied to N207
Tied to N509
Tied to N510
Tied to N511
Tied to LMV0
Tied to LMVA
Tied to CFG0
Tied to FGC0
Tied to CFG1
Tied to CFG2
Tied to LA01
Tied to LA02

Prerequisites

  • None.

Corequisites

  • None.

Excluded Combination of Modules

  • None.

Aims

  • The aim of this module is to situate information systems within the context of dynamic social interactions in a complex and rapidly changing world. Students will be encouraged to develop critical understanding of the role being played by human-machine relationships in processes of contemporary business change to provide a management perspective on the business issues of realising benefits from investments in information systems.
  • The module explores such questions as:
  • What is the relationship between computer mediated communication and the business world?
  • What are the implications of 'digital lifestyles' for the world of work?
  • What are the key disjunctures/ continuities between the 'old' and 'new' media and wider social and business systems?
  • What is at stake for all of us in the debates surrounding information systems?
  • What is the 'information society'?
  • Students will also be introduced to a broad range of related theories and concepts:
  • Post-industrialism
  • Informatisation
  • Gig economy
  • The network society

Content

  • Introduction to information and information systems.
  • Elements of IS project management.
  • Sources of value from IS.
  • Benefits driven approach to planning investments in IS.
  • Succeeding in realising the planned benefits.
  • Developing a strategic business case for an IS investment.

Learning Outcomes

Subject-specific Knowledge:
  • Demonstrate a detailed awareness and comprehension of the interaction between society and technology, as well as the theories that explain this interaction.
  • Gain confidence with interdisciplinary theory and texts to consider the analysis of information systems.
  • Become familiar with key issues and ideas concerning the ‘state of the art’ to develop a critical understanding of information systems.
  • Build an awareness of the challenges of implementing information systems, and wider implications of an increasingly automated workplace.
  • Derive consumer insights from digital analytics and propose feasible recommendations for enhancing business performance.
  • Gain a firm understanding of data surveillance and sorting.
Subject-specific Skills:
  • By the end of the module students are expected to:
  • Analyse and synthesise different types of material and evidence.
  • Identify and assess the empirical usefulness of different theoretical approaches.
  • Demonstrate sufficient initial knowledge to present independent interpretations.
Key Skills:
  • Undertake independent study and research planning.
  • Build and defend a sound argument both in written form and orally.
  • Co-ordinate group discussion.

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

  • Classses will combine online 'shorts' as lectures, films and class discussion.
  • Teaching is by online learning materials and seminars. Learning takes place through online materials and preparation for and participation in seminars, and private study.
  • Formative assessment will be by means of an individual report.
  • Summative assessment is by means of an assignment and Vlog.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Activity Number Frequency Duration Total/Hours
Lectures 10 1 Per Week 2 Hours 20
Seminars 4 Fortnightly 2 Hours 8
Preparation and Reading 172
Total 200

Summative Assessment

Component: Assignment and vlog Component Weighting: 100%
Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
Critical written reflection 1750 80% Same
Vlog 2 minutes 20% Same

Formative Assessment:

Students are required to put together a group presentation based on the topics covered in the semester, and present this content as a group.


Attendance at all activities marked with this symbol will be monitored. Students who fail to attend these activities, or to complete the summative or formative assessment specified above, will be subject to the procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University