Module detail

SHE level	11
SCQF credit points	15
ECTS credit points	7.5
Module code	MMI126271
Module Leader	Moses Ashawa
School	School of Science & Engineering
Subject	Computer Networks & Security
Trimester	A (September start), B (January start)

Summary of content

This module focuses on teaching the methods and techniques used in penetration testing. This is the practice of legally and ethically
assessing the security of systems and networks by identifying possible weaknesses. The overall aim of penetration testing is strengthening defences through the means of attacks. The aim of this module is to appreciate the various stages of a penetration test, while analysing how ethical hackers can use tools to break into insecure network systems and how these attacks may be mitigated. The module examines hacking techniques used to break into networked systems, and explores the usage of malware in the context of a hacking attack.

Module details

Flipped classroom teaching aims to maximise the direct and digitally mediated contact time with students by practicing teaching and learning strategies that use real world scenarios and encourage action learning, enquiry based learning, problem based learning and peer learning. All these approaches aim to directly involve the students in the process of learning and to encourage sharing of learning between students. The module team will determine the level and accuracy of knowledge acquisition at key points in the delivery, inputting when necessary either directly or with the support of external experts who will add to the authenticity, the credibility and application of the education and learning in the workplace.

The course material is introduced through lectures in the form of online presentations, which will cover the principles of the subject, will illustrate the relevance of it to the real-world and introduce a range of professional processes and practices.

Students will engage with practical assignments and online tutorial material which may include instruction and peer-created content, and there will be seminars on campus which will allow students to discuss key concepts and issues with peers and with instructors. Students will be expected to undertake a significant level of independent study within the workplace, including practical activities, and links will be provided to appropriate external material such as podcasts, MOOCs, videos and literature to supplement the module content.

Students will be encouraged to reflect upon the theoretical learning independently. Students will receive feedback on their performance through the module through undertaking the practical assignments and tutorial exercises and participating in the seminars.

The material presented in this module is potentially damaging if used maliciously and the capabilities developed in this module have potential for harm. Academics will emphasise the professional expectations of students as wel

Module structure

Activity	Total hours
Lectures	0
Tutorials	0
Practicals	22
Seminars	22
Independent Learning	91
Assessment	15
Placement	0

Assessment methods

Component	Duration	Weighting	Threshold	Description
Course Work001		60	45	Technical report (2000 words)
Course Work002	1	40	45	Class Test

Academic essentials

Cyber Defence and Penetration Testing

Summary of content

Module details

Module structure

Assessment methods