Business Problem Solving

CATALOG DESCRIPTION: Problem solving, analysis, and processing of business data implemented with a high-level general-purpose object-oriented programming language.

RATIONALE: The module is intended to provide students with an understanding of the role business computing can play in solving problems arising in current business settings. Students will solve problems, explore real-world business challenges, and create practical and contemporary applications using a structured high-level general-purpose programming language such as Python. The knowledge and skills acquired in this module can be applied to any setting requiring problemsolving with programming. The module is suitable for students with no or minimum prior programming experience pursuing a career or postgraduate studies and research in Business and Economics.

LEARNING OUTCOMES: As a result of taking this course, the student should be able to:

1. Demonstrate understanding of problem solving via programming principles by formulating algorithmic solutions to problems

2. Analyse the effectiveness of a solution to a given problem

3. Develop a program as a solution to a given problem by implementing the necessary programming constructs and techniques.

METHOD OF TEACHING AND LEARNING: In congruence with the teaching and learning strategy of the college, the following tools are used:

➢ Lectures and class discussions.

➢ Laboratory sessions involving practice in problem solving and program design and development.

➢ Office hours held by the instructor to provide further assistance to students.

➢ Use of the Blackboard Learning platform (communication, posting of lecture notes / assignments’ instructions / timely announcements, online submission of assignments, etc).

ASSESSMENT:

Summative:

First Assessment - Midterm Examination 40% Programming problems

Final Assessment – Group Project 60% Development of a solution to a problem (Groupwork: requirements analysis/application development/documentation)

Formative: Programming problems assigned on Blackboard 0%

The formative assessment(s), which include individual and group assignments, aim to prepare students for the summative ones. 

The First Assessment tests Learning Outcomes 1 and 2. The Final Assessment tests Learning Outcome 1, 2 and 3. The final grade for this module will be determined by averaging all summative assessment grades, based on the predetermined weights for each assessment. If students pass the comprehensive assessment that tests all Learning Outcomes for this module and the average grade for the module is 40 or higher, students are not required to resit any failed assessments. (Guidelines and assessment rubrics are distributed on the first day of classes along with the course outline).