Information Technologies

Although there is no defined precedence, the student should have basic knowledge in using spreadsheet tools, as well as interpretation ability and structured thinking in problem-solving.

Classes will be taught using computers and digital tools in a theoretical-practical regime. A dynamic teaching and learning process will be used, with support for digital tools and based on the “Scrum” and “Flipped Classroom” methodologies (type of “Blended learning”). Student-centered teaching and learning, provision of teaching materials in advance, development of activities and classes almost entirely aimed at applying concepts, with fundamentally interactive dynamics.

Aims
Introduction to Information and Technologies Systems to support management, in the agricultural context.
Introduction to approaches and practices of advanced data analysis and decision support.
Introduction to decision support tools, using spreadsheets.

Learning Outcomes
Instrumental and conceptual capabilities in the field of information systems and technologies to support management.
Knowledge acquisition about the current and the major information technologies, as well their application.
Critical analysis capabilities on information systems and technologies to support management in the agricultural context.
Strengthen the skills in the use of spreadsheets, as a decision support tool.
Consolidation of knowledge and practices in the area of advanced data analysis.

1. Introduction to Information Systems and Technologies
2. Information Systems and Organizations
3. Information Systems in Agriculture
4. The Microsoft Excel Spreadsheet as a decision support tool
4.1. Databases
4.2. Dynamic tables and charts
4.3. Dashboards and Scorecards
5. The concept of Data Warehouse
5.1. Multidimensional modeling
5.2. Implementation of a DW
6. Excel PowerPivot

The assessment will be done in two ways:
1) Continuous, during the course classes, includes the accomplishment of 2 written tests and 1 project. Each test will be held on the computer, carried out within the class, without access to any consulting material, with a duration of 60 minutes, and quoted for 8 points out of 20. The project consists of a report about a critical analysis of a proposed scientific paper, quoted for 4 points out of 20, and carried out by 4 to 6 students. The dates of each evaluation will be defined in the first class.
2) By exam, takes place at the time of regulated exams periods, including the accomplishment of 1 written test and 1 project. The test has the same format as the continuous one, with a duration of 120 minutes, and is quoted for 16 points in 20. The project consists of a report about a critical analysis of a proposed scientific paper, quoted for 4 points out of 20, single carried out by the student and together with the written test.
In any of the above assessment methodologies, all components are mandatory and each written test has 9,5 points in 20 as the minimum grade to obtain approval.
The final grade for the curricular unit results from the arithmetic sum of the scores obtained in each component, concerning the assessment methodology that the student submits for assessment. In case the student does not accomplish the required minimums, the final grade will be 5 points in 20.
In both assessment methodologies, theoretical and practical skills are evaluated, in the contents taught.

NAO