1. Code using advanced data structures

1.1 Design dynamic data structures

1.2 Implement and use dynamic data structures, including double-linked lists and binary trees for coding

2. Code using advanced algorithms

2.1 Code using hashing techniques

2.2 Consider and record the advantages and disadvantages of at least three sorting algorithms

2.3 Code at least one sorting algorithm

2.4 Code advanced searching techniques for use with complex data structures

3. Write simple multi-process application

3.1 Demonstrate use of the features of the language that enable inter-process communication through at least one mechanism

3.2 Demonstrate use of features of the language that allow for operating system ‘signals’ to be captured and responded to

4. Use third-party libraries

4.1 Use a third-party library in the construction of an application

4.2 Reference third-party documentation

4.3 Use procedural techniques to write an application to work within a graphical user interface (GUI) environment

5. Debug code

5.1 Use integrated development environment (IDE) debugging facilities or a stand-alone debugger

5.2 Use program debugging techniques to detect and resolve errors of syntactical, logical and design origin

6. Document activities

6.1 Demonstrate use of source code version control

6.2 Demonstrate adherence to guidelines for developing maintainable code and to a set of provided coding standards

6.3 Apply suitable internal documentation to all code created using documentation tools available in the target language

7. Test code

7.1 Design and document tests to be undertaken

7.2 Undertake limited testing of produced code to ensure it complies with program specification

7.3 Capture test results

8. Create an application

8.1 Develop a solution from a program specification design document

8.2 Design the algorithm, and construct and test applications in response to a problem description and language

Overview of assessment

Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit

Evidence of the ability to:

design application programs using a range of tools to support programming activities

produce design documentation for these programs

build application programs according to the design

document these programs

conduct testing procedures on these programs to ensure validity

analyse test results to determine program’s accuracy.

Context of and specific resources for assessment

Assessment must ensure access to:

software development environment

technical requirements

appropriate learning and assessment support when required

modified equipment for people with special needs.

Method of assessment

A range of assessment methods should be used to assess practical skills and knowledge. The following examples are appropriate for this unit:

evaluation of candidate’s program response to specifications

review of candidate design, program and testing documentation

verbal or written questioning to determine candidate’s knowledge of:

user requirements

programming techniques

testing techniques.

Guidance information for assessment

Holistic assessment with other units relevant to the industry sector, workplace and job role is recommended, where appropriate.

Assessment processes and techniques must be culturally appropriate, and suitable to the communication skill level, language, literacy and numeracy capacity of the candidate and the work being performed.

Indigenous people and other people from a non-English speaking background may need additional support.

In cases where practical assessment is used it should be combined with targeted questioning to assess required knowledge.

Dynamic data structures may include:

binary trees

double-linked lists.

Mechanism may include:

pipes

sockets.

Integrated development environment may include:

C

Code Warrior

Eclipse

J-Edit

VB

Visual C++

Visual Studio suite.

Coding standards may include:

C coding standard

GNU.

Language may include:

C

C++

Java

Small Talk

VB

VB.NET.