The tremendous technological advances in information and communication technologies, especially in the Internet of Things and Cyber Physical Systems, have enabled the development of highly autonomous systems (i.e., robots) that act in the physical and virtual worlds. Information and the robots that are processing it are expected to be available everywhere and at all times.

Today’s E-Business relies on highly networked, data-driven ICT systems and machines taking autonomous decisions. Virtual and physical environments begin to merge surfacing in technology trends such as "industry 4.0", "drones" and "smart assistants". In the physical environment objects are identified, environment is sensed and interaction between computers and humans is pushed to the invisible. In the virtual environment behavioral data is collected. Business intelligence applications help to combine both information sources to gain new insights. But the ubiquitous availability of information and the autonomous machines using it impose risks which need to be minimized to protect humans and businesses.

This course will provide you with:

• an introduction to central terminology and concepts used in ICT
• selected historical perspectives on current technology and its development
• selected insights on open source software projects & working groups
• perspectives on ubiquitous computing and surrounding technology
• basic knowledge on web technology and concepts
• an introduction to big data and its underlying architecture
• selected perspectives on IT Governance
• a basic introduction into IT Security

After attending this research-guided course, students will be able to understand, describe and judge key information and communication technologies that support electronic business transactions and smart commerce environments.

Subject-related skills

• Know what technologies are used for business in electronic environments (fixed/mobile systems, data collection (i.e. RFID), networks, localization technologies).
• Understand the fundamental challenges in the emerging area of mobile and ubiquitous computing.
• Understand the evolution of interfaces between humans and computers from direct manipulation to implicit interaction.
• Judge on the impact that technologies will have and how their technical traits and capabilities foster and limit their business use and deployment potential.
• Understand the underlying architecture of big data systems and how future developments may influence such systems.

Transferable skills

• Ability to analyze and judge the suitability of technical solutions and services in business.
• Ability to discuss research-oriented topics related to the design, application, deployment and risks of information technology in business contexts.

There are five independently graded types of deliverables:

• Video-Based Learning (VBL) Unit - Group Assignment for Explainer Video (20%)
• Peer Reviews - Peer Reviews of other VBL Units (4%)
• VBL Activities - 3-6 asynchronous video-based learning activities on LEARN (6%)
• In-Class Exercises - at least two collaborative in-class exercises (10%)
• Final Exam (60%)

Regular attendance is a prerequisite for passing the course.

Grading scheme:

87.5% - 100%   = "Sehr gut"  (Excellent)
75% - 87.49%   = "Gut"   (Good)
62.5% - 74.99%  = "Befriedigend" (Satisfactory)
50% - 62.49%  = "Genügend"  (Sufficient)
Below 50%  = "Nicht Genügend" (Fail)