For the OTHM Level 5 Diploma in Information Technology
Software Engineering (20 credits)
Qualification: OTHM Level 5 Diploma in Information Technology
Overview and aims
This unit develops learners’ ability to apply software engineering principles to the analysis, design, implementation and testing of medium‑scale software systems. It builds on Level 4 programming to introduce structured development processes, design methods and team collaboration.
Aims:
- Introduce software development life‑cycle models and engineering best practices.
- Develop skills in requirements analysis, system design and implementation for larger applications.
- Promote effective testing, documentation and maintenance practices.
Indicative content (summary)
- SDLC models (waterfall, incremental, agile overviews).
- Requirements analysis and specification.
- Design methods (modular design, object‑oriented design, UML).
- Implementation strategies, coding standards and version control.
- Testing levels (unit, integration, system), debugging and maintenance.
Outcomes (summarised)
Learners will be able to:
- Explain and compare software engineering processes and techniques.
- Produce requirements and design documents for a given problem.
- Implement, test and document a medium‑scale software solution.
Assessment (project‑based)
- Main assignment: design and build a multi‑module application (with design docs, code, test evidence), submitted as a project portfolio.
