MBAA617 Regis University Online Course Syllabus MBA A617 Accounting Systems Important Notes: This document provides an overview of expectations for this online course and is subject to change prior to the term start. Changes may also occur during the term due to faculty or SPS Distance Learning course updates. Some links may only be active once the term starts. Please note, EMBA students must contact University Alliance representatives for their course material. Assignment Schedule Instructor biography and contact information is posted on the Discussion Forum and in the roster COURSE DESCRIPTION Identifies and defines the manual and automated systems necessary to provide accounting information. Studies and compares systems to prepare financial accounting, cost accounting and tax documents. Develops efficient, controlled systems that provide both required and management information. COURSE OUTCOMES ● ● ● ● Identify the systems development methodology and benefits (Reading assignments) Identify each of the SDLC phases and their relationship to each other phase and final product (Reading assignments, written assignments, individual project, and class discussions) Determine the systems development life cycle that best fits the organization’s infrastructure (Written Assignments and class discussions) Determine the steps within the systems development life cycle file:///K|/SpsDL/a_webct_to_angel/Grad/MBA/A617_SP207/MBAA617.html (1 of 13)8/14/2007 5:03:12 PM MBAA617 phases (Reading assignments, written assignments, and class discussions)\ ● ● ● Identify the different types of Accounting Information Systems (AIS) and their use within an organization(Reading assignments and class discussions) Complete a System Investigation of an accounting cycle for a company of your choice (Individual project) Identify current technology and technology-enabled services that may improve business objectives and decision-making processes. COURSE PREREQUISITES MBA A602, Interpreting Accounting Information REQUIRED COURSE TEXT OR TEXTS Jones, F., & Rama, D. (2005). Accounting information systems: A business process approach (2nd ed.). Mason, OH: South-Western (Thomson Learning). ISBN: 0-324-30161-8 hard. ©2006. Companion Web site: http://www. swcollege.com/acct/jones. Other Course Materials Optional – Microsoft® Visio® or an equivalent flowchart or diagram program. The following are Web sites that have open source applications which can be used for flowcharting and diagrams. UML Software – http://www.objecteering.com/downloads_objecteering6.php Open Office Software – http://www.canadiancontent.net/tech/download/ OpenOffice.html COURSE FORMAT/METHOD OF INSTRUCTION The course is based on participation in the Discussion Forum, interaction between classmates and the facilitator, completion of the assignments, and communication via e-mail and virtual communities. file:///K|/SpsDL/a_webct_to_angel/Grad/MBA/A617_SP207/MBAA617.html (2 of 13)8/14/2007 5:03:12 PM MBAA617 GRADING CRITERIA As they relate to mastery, each of the letter grades has the following meaning as described in the University Bulletin: GRADE A AB+ B BC+ C CD+ D DF 100% - 93% 92%-90% 89%-87% 86%-83% 82%-80% 79%-77% 76%-73% 72%-70% 69%-67% 66%-63% 62% - 60% Below 60% GPA 4.00 = Outstanding Scholarship 3.67 3.33 3.00 = Superior Work 2.67 2.33 2.00 = Unsatisfactory/Graduate 1.67 1.33 1.00= Unsatisfactory 0.6 0.00 Failure GRADING FOR THIS COURSE Grading Rubric: An “A” grade is characterized by the following attributes: 1. Demonstrates accurate and sophisticated understanding of readings and issues. Draws out important implications . Effectively integrates perspectives, opinions, theories and ideas from outside the assigned material. 2. Shows critical thinking skills expressed articulately with a demonstrated ability to do more than repeat the text material. Defends opinions and judgments effectively. 3. Expresses ideas clearly. 4. Contains few grammatical, syntactical, or stylistic weaknesses. file:///K|/SpsDL/a_webct_to_angel/Grad/MBA/A617_SP207/MBAA617.html (3 of 13)8/14/2007 5:03:12 PM MBAA617 A “B” grade is characterized as follows: 1. Shows all the elements of "A" work, but with less accomplishment, proficiency, or analysis; relies to a lesser degree on materials outside the assigned readings. 2. Asserts a critical position on the issues with a demonstrated ability to do more than repeat the text material. 3. Offers limited defense or explanation of judgments and conclusions. 4. May be missing one or more significant elements in the case. A “C” grade is characterized as follows: 1. Shows an overall grasp of the material, but with little effort or success in defending conclusions or judgments. 2. Reflects sufficient clarity of expression to communicate ideas, but lacks in depth analysis of issues or questions raised in the case. 3. May be missing more than one critical element of the case. Grades of plus or minus reflect variations from the above standards, up or down, which are not sufficient to merit a change in letter grade. Grade of “Incomplete” The instructor does not give incompletes except in exceptional circumstances. Even then, there must be a significant amount of work handed in to warrant an incomplete. If the incomplete is awarded, a grade of I/F is submitted and a deadline will be given within which the work must be completed. The deadline cannot extend beyond the end of the following session. If the work is not completed in the allocated time, the grade will be changed to F. Assignment Feedback file:///K|/SpsDL/a_webct_to_angel/Grad/MBA/A617_SP207/MBAA617.html (4 of 13)8/14/2007 5:03:12 PM MBAA617 Assignments will be graded and returned with feedback pursuant to the message posted by the facilitator the first day of the class on the Message Board, which will be no more than four (4) days from the assignment due date. Feedback will include your grade for participation for the week, if participation is a requirement. Attendance/Participation Requirements Students are expected to be present in the virtual class and participate meaningfully in class discussions. Meaningful participation means within the context of the subject in a way that is informative and generates further discussion. Not participating will impact participation grades. ACADEMIC INTEGRITY Regis University is committed to intellectual integrity in its academic pursuits. Conduct such as cheating, plagiarism, forgery, and alteration or misuse of academic records is inconsistent with accepted University standards of intellectual integrity and academic performance. Sanctions may, therefore, be imposed by the programs of the University for cheating (defined as using inappropriate sources of information on a test) or plagiarism (defined as presenting as one’s own, the ideas, words or products of another). Such sanctions may include a failing grade on the assignment, failure of the course or expulsion of the student from the course or the department; sanctions are decided upon and imposed by the program after consideration of the evidence. STUDENT CONDUCT SPS Graduate Programs’ students and faculty share responsibility for maintaining an appropriate learning environment. This includes using information technology responsibly in online and other courses. In order for faculty members to provide and students to receive effective instruction in classrooms, laboratories, online courses, and other learning areas, the Graduate Programs and Faculty expect students to conduct themselves in an orderly and cooperative manner and not engage in disruptive behavior, disorderly conduct or intentionally interfere in the freedom of expression of others. “Disruptive Behavior” or “Disorderly Conduct” as applied to the academic setting, means behavior that a reasonable faculty member or student would view as intentionally or recklessly interfering with normal academic functions, University file:///K|/SpsDL/a_webct_to_angel/Grad/MBA/A617_SP207/MBAA617.html (5 of 13)8/14/2007 5:03:12 PM MBAA617 events or University sponsored activities. Examples include, but are not limited to: persistently speaking or commenting without being recognized or interrupting other speakers; behavior that distracts the class from the subject matter or discussion; or in extreme cases, physical threats, harassing behavior or personal insults; refusal to comply with faculty direction including refusal to work in a group, using a cell phone or pager during a classroom session; or behavior that has a negative impact in any learning environment.Disruptive behavior also includes any other behavior covered by the Regis University Student Code of Conduct. Students who fail to adhere to acceptable behavioral standards will be counseled by the classroom faculty. Should the issue not be resolved, they will then be referred to the Program Chair and then, should it be necessary, to the Dean and may be subject to discipline up to and including expulsion from the program. PLAGIARISM Plagiarism is defined as presenting as one’s own, the ideas, words or product of another. When a student submits work for credit that includes the product, words, ideas, or data of others, the source must be acknowledged by the use of complete, accurate, and specific references, this includes copying and pasting from online media or from any Web site. By placing one’s name on work submitted for credit, the student certifies the originality of all work not otherwise identified by appropriate acknowledgements. Sanctions for plagiarism include: a failing grade on the assignment, failure of the course, or, expulsion from the course or department (program). An instructor may, at their discretion, utilize the services of Turnitin.com to evaluate the student work product for plagiarism. Alternatively, an instructor may require students to submit the work product directly to Turnitin.com for evaluation prior to submission to the instructor. For more information on Turnitin.com, please go to www.turnitin.com. AVOIDING PLAGIARISM TUTORIAL There are a variety of tutorials designed to help students understand and avoid plagiarism. Please take the time to review the Web site provided below. ● http://highered.mcgraw-hill.com/sites/0072873469/ file:///K|/SpsDL/a_webct_to_angel/Grad/MBA/A617_SP207/MBAA617.html (6 of 13)8/14/2007 5:03:12 PM MBAA617 student_view0/avoiding_plagiarism_tutorial/ EQUAL ACCESS & DISABILITY SERVICES As policies change, the most recent information for Disability Services is located at: http://regis.edu/regis.asp?sctn=ars&p1=dis. Regis University, in compliance with federal guidelines, is committed to equal educational opportunity by assuring otherwise qualified students with disabilities equal access to Regis University programs and activities that are provided to students without disabilities. An otherwise qualified person with a disability is a student who meets the academic and technical standards required for admission or participation in Regis University’s educational programs and activities. To ensure the provision of reasonable and appropriate services at Regis University, students with disabilities must identify themselves in a timely manner to the Office of Disability Services (ODS), Room 118B, Life Directions Center, 303-458-4941, disability@regis.edu in order to be eligible for requested accommodation(s). Current and comprehensive documentation must be on file with the ODS prior to approval of the accommodations. It is strongly encouraged that students self-disclose their disabilities at the beginning of their academic experience because accommodations are not retroactive Accelerated courses that are offered in eight-week terms are fast-paced and reading intensive. Incomplete grades are seldom granted and are not considered appropriate accommodations. All courses are expected to be completed during the term in which they occur. DIVERSITY At Regis University, diversity is at the core of our faith-inspired commitment to build an inclusive community that values the dignity and contributions of all of our members. Our differences thrive in a learning environment characterized by the Jesuit traditions of mutual respect and the pursuit of justice, an environment in which our human differences, whether physical or philosophical, are respected. WRITING ASSISTANCE – ™SMARTTHINKING file:///K|/SpsDL/a_webct_to_angel/Grad/MBA/A617_SP207/MBAA617.html (7 of 13)8/14/2007 5:03:12 PM MBAA617 The School for Professional Studies will provide 10 hours of FREE tutoring or writing assistance for one year for all SPS students through ™SMARTHINKING. The tutoring year begins on March 8 of the current year. To register for ™SMARTHINKING, access INsite at https://insite.regis.edu, login using your RegisNet Username and Password. Select ™SMARTHINKING. RegisNET A RegisNET Account allows students to use and access Regis University Webbased resources. RegisNET provides access to SHAREPOINT, ™SMARTHINKING, free email, course modules and syllabi, Dayton Memorial Library Databases, computer labs, presentation equipment, etc. To register for a RegisNET account, go to INsite (http://insite.regis.edu/). Select “RegisNET Account”. You will be required to post either your social security number or student ID. DAYTON MEMORIAL LIBRARY The Dayton Memorial Library can be accessed http://www.regis.edu/library. htm Web site. The Jesuit University system provides 24 hour research support. The reference desk can be accessed by the link on the site or at 303-458-4031, 1-800-388-2366 Ext. 4031. STYLE SHEET STATEMENT Regis University SPS Graduate Programs requires students use the APA Style Sheet for written assignments. Information can be accessed through: http://www.regis.edu/regis.asp?sctn=ars&p1=ws REGIS UNIVERSITY MISSION STATEMENT (the following statement is located on the Regis University Web site at: http:// www.regis.edu/regis.asp?sctn=abt) Regis University educates men and women of all ages to take leadership roles and to make a positive impact in a changing society. Standing within the Catholic and United States traditions, we are inspired by the particular Jesuit vision of Ignatius Loyola. This vision challenges us to attain the inner freedom to make intelligent choices. We seek to provide value-centered undergraduate and graduate education, as well as to strengthen commitment to community service. file:///K|/SpsDL/a_webct_to_angel/Grad/MBA/A617_SP207/MBAA617.html (8 of 13)8/14/2007 5:03:12 PM MBAA617 We nurture the life of the mind and the pursuit of truth within an environment conducive to effective teaching, learning and personal development. Consistent with Judeo-Christian principles, we apply knowledge to human needs and seek to preserve the best of the human heritage. We encourage the continual search for truth, values and a just existence. Throughout this process, we examine and attempt to answer the question: "How ought we to live?" As a consequence of Ignatius Loyola's vision, particularly as reflected in his Spiritual Exercises, we encourage all members of the Regis community to learn proficiently, think logically and critically, identify and choose personal standards of values, and be socially responsible. We further encourage the development of the skills and leadership abilities necessary for distinguished professional work and contributions to the improvement and transformation of society. ^ Top ONLINE COURSE ASSIGNMENTS: MBA A617 Week 1: Introduction to Systems Development Reading Chapters 1 and 14 - Jones, F., & Rama, D. (2005). Accounting information systems: A business process approach (2nd ed.). Companion Web site: http://www.swcollege.com/acct/jones. Activities Forum: Class Introductions and Personal experience with accounting systems Forum: Personal Experience Technology Assessment Forum: Changes to a system Course project Submit the completed System Investigation Steps template to the facilitator. See Week 1 for further details. Week 2: System Analysis and Documenting Accounting Systems, file:///K|/SpsDL/a_webct_to_angel/Grad/MBA/A617_SP207/MBAA617.html (9 of 13)8/14/2007 5:03:12 PM MBAA617 Part 1 Reading Chapters 2 and 3 - Jones, F., & Rama, D. (2005). Accounting information systems: A business process approach (2nd ed.). Companion Web site: http://www.swcollege.com/acct/jones. Activities Forum: Identification of a Business Process Forum: Overview Activity Diagram Course project Submit the Identification of a Business Process assignment to the forum. See Week 2 for further details. Submit your completed Overview Activity Diagram to the forum. See Week 2 for further details. Week 3: System Analysis and Documenting Accounting Systems, Part 2 Reading Chapter 4 - Jones, F., & Rama, D. (2005). Accounting information systems: A business process approach (2nd ed.). Companion Web site: http://www.swcollege.com/acct/jones. Activities Forum: Detailed Activity Diagram Forum: Risks and Controls based on the Detailed Activity Diagram Research Paper #1 (to be discussed in Week 5) Course Project file:///K|/SpsDL/a_webct_to_angel/Grad/MBA/A617_SP207/MBAA617.html (10 of 13)8/14/2007 5:03:12 PM MBAA617 Submit your completed Detailed Activity Diagram to the forum. See Week 3 for further details. Submit your completed Detailed Activity Diagram with identified risks and controls to the forum. See Week 3 for further details. Week 4: Understanding and Designing Accounting Data Reading Chapter 5 - Jones, F., & Rama, D. (2005). Accounting information systems: A business process approach (2nd ed.). Companion Web site: http://www.swcollege.com/acct/jones. Activities Forum: Table Design Forum: Table Design - Relationship Cardinalities and Normalization Forum: Table Design - Primary and Foreign Keys Course project Submit your completed Table Design to the forum. See Week 4 for further details. Submit your completed Table Design with relationship cardinalities and normalization to the forum. See Week 4 for further details. Submit your completed Table Design with relationship cardinalities, normalization, primary and foreign keys to the forum. See Week 4 for further details. Week 5: Understanding and Designing Queries and Reports Reading Chapter 6 - Jones, F., & Rama, D. (2005). Accounting information systems: A business process approach (2nd ed.). file:///K|/SpsDL/a_webct_to_angel/Grad/MBA/A617_SP207/MBAA617.html (11 of 13)8/14/2007 5:03:12 PM MBAA617 Companion Web site: http://www.swcollege.com/acct/jones. Activities Forum: Reports Forum: Discuss Research Paper #1 from Week 3 Research Paper #2 (to be discussed in Week 6) Course Project Submit your completed business process reports to the forum. See Week 5 for further details. Week 6: Understanding and Designing Forms Reading Chapter 7 - Jones, F., & Rama, D. (2005). Accounting information systems: A business process approach (2nd ed.). Companion Web site: http://www.swcollege.com/acct/jones. Activities Forum: Forms development Forum: Discuss Research Paper #2 from Week 6 Course Project Submit your completed business process forms to the forum. See Week 6 for details. Week 7: Introduction to Forensic and Investigative Accounting Reading Chapter 12 - Jones, F., & Rama, D. (2005). Accounting information systems: A business process approach (2nd ed.). file:///K|/SpsDL/a_webct_to_angel/Grad/MBA/A617_SP207/MBAA617.html (12 of 13)8/14/2007 5:03:12 PM MBAA617 Companion Web site: http://www.swcollege.com/acct/jones. Activities Forum: Draft report of final project Research Paper #3 Emerging Technology (to be discussed in Week 8) Course Project Submit a draft report of your project’s Systems Development Life Cycle to the forum. See Week 7 for details. Week 8: Emerging Technologies Reading No assignment Activities Forum: Discuss Research Paper #3 - Emerging Technology Forum: Final Report discussion Course Project Submit your completed final report to the forum. See Week 8 for details. Course Evaluation Please complete the online evaluation located at the bottom of the Week by Week content. Your feedback helps us build a better online program! ^ Top Please contact techsupport@regis.edu if you need assistance or to report any problems. © 2007 Regis University. All rights reserved. file:///K|/SpsDL/a_webct_to_angel/Grad/MBA/A617_SP207/MBAA617.html (13 of 13)8/14/2007 5:03:12 PM