1. Demonstrate knowledge and basic understanding of the OSI reference model and the principles which underlie data representation in a networked system and their implication on that system's capability and performance.
Knowledge & Understanding

2. Demonstrate knowledge and basic understanding of the facts, concepts, principles and theories required to analyse a networking scenario and its component parts
Analysis, Knowledge & Understanding

3. Install, configure, test and troubleshoot a router WAN connection in a router orientated internetwork, according to industry standards and using commercial equipment
Communication, Problem solving,

A coursework case study (Learning Outcomes 1 and 2).
50% 3000 words

Practical Coursework (Learning Outcome 3).
50% 3000 words

The coursework is all practical in nature, but the first part is against a case study which will reference the learners own work context where possible. The second is against a set of troubleshooting tasks.

Network fundamentals is the first of the four sub-modules preparing students for the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) designation. Network fundamentals introduces student to Local Area Networks (LANs) based on switching and routing techniques. Upon completion of this course, students will have performed tasks related to:

- The Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) model
- Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP), IP addressing, sub-netting, VLSM
- Basic network design, configuration, documentation and troubleshooting.

Module Launch (30 hours)
There will be a module launch during which around 20 hours of face to face contact will be devoted to undertaking tasks which are designed to provide useful insights into the module content and purpose. The remaining time will be spent on guided learning activities.

Additional Guided Learning (22 hours)
A module tutor who is part of the teaching team of the module will be allocated to you and you will meet them during the launch. Following the launch, there will be some materials on the VLE which are designed to guide your learning. Additionally, there will be at least two hour long sessions per week of contact time for the eleven weeks following the launch. This will be used for learning guided led by your module tutor. It will be a face to face presentation if you are on day release. For online learners it will be flipped classroom approach with group (up to 20) seminars.

Reviews:
(1 hour per student)

Independent learning (247 hours)
The module leader will provide resources through the virtual learning environment which will include videos and presentations as well as links to useful websites. Other academic learning will be achieved through reading around the subject area. Module tutors will suggest useful texts, though many others will be suitable and can be found in our e-library. If you require help understanding any of the concepts, you may contact your module tutor for assistance.

Part of your independent learning will take place in your workplace under the guidance of your mentor. You will complete a work-based learning agreement to ensure that arrangements are in place at your workplace to facilitate this work-based learning. You are encouraged to endeavour to apply your growing academic knowledge to improve your work practice and to reflect on your work-based experiences to improve your learning.

You will be required to complete assignment work during independent learning time. Assignment work for a 30 credit module at level 6 should take around 100 hours to complete

Additional help with learning
You will have access to the departmental librarian. As a student, you are more than welcome to visit the university at any time and to use the resources. During time at the university, you may arrange to meet your module tutor or academic coach for additional help

Roberts R M, Easttom C (2018) Networking Fundamentals, 3rd Edition, The Goodheart-Willcox Company, Inc ISBN: 9781635634433

Lammie, T (2007) CCNA(R): Cisco(R) Certified Network Associate Study Guide: Exam 640-802: 6th edition Sybex, ISBN: 978-0-470-11008-9

Lewis, L (2008) LAN Switching and Wireless, CCNA Exploration Companion Guide ISBN-13: 9781587132070

Vachon, B, Graziani, R (2008) Accessing the WAN, CCNA Exploration Companion Guide ISBN-13: 9781587132056

On-line learning material provided by CISCO Inc.
CISCO Networking Academy programme assessment server
Laboratory exercise sheets provided by course instructor