Unit rationale, description and aim
Almost all computing devices fare connected using computer networks. There is a need of professionals who exercise knowledge and leadership in the area of computer networks and its applications. This unit covers the fundamental topics of computer networks and data communication. The unit demonstrates the basic networking concepts, OSI and TCP/IP networking model, functionalities and characteristics of different layers, network devices, and protocols. Students will learn how these devices and protocols are used in computer networks and application programs. The practical works will help students to learn how to design, configure, build and test a small-scale peer-to-peer network for an organisation. In addition, the unit focuses on designing a network solution that utilises optimal resources and thus, aims to minimise negative impacts on the environment.
The unit aims to equip students with background knowledge in computer networking, which scaffolds an advanced unit in emerging technologies of blockchain and IoT. It will produce graduates with i) a wide range of professional knowledge and skills relevant to networking and communication technologies, ii) adaptability to changing technology and society, iii) capability to design network solutions utilising minimal computing resources, and iv) prepare them for CCNA1 certification exam.
Learning outcomes
To successfully complete this unit you will be able to demonstrate you have achieved the learning outcomes (LO) detailed in the below table.
Each outcome is informed by a number of graduate capabilities (GC) to ensure your work in this, and every unit, is part of a larger goal of graduating from ACU with the attributes of insight, empathy, imagination and impact.
Explore the graduate capabilities.
Identify basic components of networking devices su...
Learning Outcome 01
Design and implement a hierarchical IPv4 and IPv6 ...
Learning Outcome 02
Describe the characteristics and functionalities o...
Learning Outcome 03
Plan, build, and test a small network using packet...
Learning Outcome 04
Content
Topics will include:
- Basic switch and end device configuration
- Protocols and models
- Physical layer
- Data link layer
- Network layer
- IP addressing
- Subnetting
- Transport layer
- Application layer
- Build a small network
Assessment strategy and rationale
A range of assessment procedures will be used to progressively assess achieving unit learning outcomes and develop graduate attributes consistent with University assessment requirements. The first assessment provides students with an opportunity to apply their theoretical knowledge and gain practical skills. The second assessment task will help to gain practical knowledge on subnetting to ensure optimal use of network resources. The final assessment item includes a case scenario where students need to apply their knowledge and skills to find configuration errors, apply patches to make the network operational.
To pass this unit, students must demonstrate competence in all learning outcomes and achieve an aggregate mark of at least 50%. Marking will be in accordance with a rubric specifically developed to measure students’ level of achievement of the learning outcomes for each item of assessment. Students will be awarded a final grade which signifies their overall achievement in the unit.
Overview of assessments
Assessment Task 1: Network Configuration and Trou...
Assessment Task 1: Network Configuration and Troubleshooting
This assessment consists of a series of practical exercises in which students use Cisco Packet Tracer to configure, build, and troubleshoot network systems. Feedback on these exercises will help students understand critical concepts of network security and how they are applied in real-world contexts.
Submission Type: Individual
Assessment Method: Practical task
Artefact: report
20%
Assessment Task 2: Practical task - Subnetting IP...
Assessment Task 2: Practical task - Subnetting IP networks
This is a skill-based assessment where students will be given a network scenario and a set of requirements. Students will be asked to divide the networks in sub-networks to create an optimal network design plan.
The purpose of this assessment is to assess students’ critical and analytical ability to solve practical problems.
Submission Type: Individual
Assessment Method: Practical tasks
Artefact: Answer Script + Online Viva
30%
Assessment Task 3: Practical Task - Configure, Bu...
Assessment Task 3: Practical Task - Configure, Build and Troubleshoot a network
This assessment task will test the students’ grasp of both theoretical and practical aspects of the unit. In the first part of the task, students will be provided a network scenario and need to configure the devices to make the network operational. They will also be given a misconfiguration scenario to troubleshoot network devices and fix the errors.
In the second part, students will be given a topology to plan, design and build a small network for an organisation. They need to consider various aspects of computer networking to design an optimal and effective solution. Students will also explore the application of AI tools for networking. Students will also need to answer a number of questions related to their design and implementation process.
Submission Type: Individual
Assessment Method: Practical/Laboratory & Presentation
Artefact: PT file & Answer script + Live/recorded presentation with face overlay (7 minutes) + online viva
50%
Learning and teaching strategy and rationale
This unit is delivered through Attendance and Online modes using a single, integrated learning and teaching strategy designed to ensure equivalent learning outcomes and a comparable learning experience for all students, while supporting diverse learning needs and maximising access.
Across both modes, learning activities are intentionally aligned to the unit learning outcomes and assessment tasks, and are underpinned by active learning, guided engagement with disciplinary knowledge, opportunities for peer interaction, and regular, timely feedback. While the mode of delivery shapes how students participate, the pedagogical intent, expectations and standards remain consistent.
In Attendance mode, students engage in weekly face-to-face classes at designated locations, supported by preparatory activities prior to workshops and opportunities for consolidation following classes. Online learning platforms are used to complement face-to-face teaching through additional resources and learning activities.
In Online mode, students engage with the same core content and learning outcomes through a combination of synchronous and asynchronous activities, including structured discussions and applied learning tasks that support learning in professional contexts.
Across both delivery modes, students should plan to commit approximately 150 hours to this unit over the semester, including participation in learning activities, independent study, readings and assessment preparation.