This module is not currently running in 2024 to 2025.
E-commerce is an increasingly important area for consumers, businesses and national economies. This module introduces what is meant by electronic commerce, and discusses its economic and social implications, its drivers and limitations. You will learn about the principal features of business-to-business and business-to-customer e-commerce and compare them with traditional forms of trading. The course also includes the chance to implement a simple end-to-end e-commerce system.
Total contact hours: 24
Private study hours: 126
Total study hours: 150 hours
Main assessment methods
2 pieces of coursework (each 20 hours) (50%)
Unseen examination (2 hours) (50%)
Reassessment methods
Like for like.
Norris, M., West, S., Gaughan, K. (2001). eBusiness Essentials. John Wiley
Schneider, Gary P and Perry, James T. Electronic Commerce, Course Technology. Thomson Learning
Turban, E. et al. (1999). Electronic Commerce: A Managerial Perspective. Prentice Hall
See the library reading list for this module (Canterbury)
See the library reading list for this module (Medway)
8. The intended subject specific learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
8.1 Explain the relation of e-commerce to traditional commerce and the relative benefits of each [A10, B1, C2, C11];
8.2 Understand the notions of client-side and server-side programming and be able to write server-side programs[A2, B4, C1, C3, C4];
8.3 Understand the architectural features (client and server) required for supporting ecommerce [A2, A3];
8.4 Describe the different frameworks for e-commerce currently in use and be able to evaluate how appropriate a given framework is for a specific purpose [B3, C9]
8.5 Explain how the fundamental concepts of cryptography are used in e-commerce [B5, B7, D5];]
8.6 Understand the security aspects of payment and micropayment methods [B5];
8.7 Be aware of the legal background to e-commerce [B6, C10].
9. The intended generic learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
9.1 Make effective use of general IT facilities [D3];
9.2 Demonstrate comprehension of the trade-offs involved in design choices [B1];
9.3 Communicate technical issues clearly to specialist audiences [B2, D2];
9.4 Manage own learning and development, including time management and organisational skills [D5];
9.5 Recognise and be guided by social, professional and ethical issues and guidelines [B6].
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