Program Overview

Introduction to ACCG2050 Information Systems and Data Analytics for Accountants

The aim of this unit is for students to understand the impact that information systems have on business processes and provides the foundation for further studies in accounting, audit, and business information systems units. Topics covered include business processes, systems development, internal controls, ethics, and cybersecurity, and the role of accounting, accounting information systems, and information systems more broadly.

General Information

• Unit convenor and teaching staff: Binh Bui, Moderator Tas Husain
• Credit points: 10
• Prerequisites: 40cp at 1000 level or above
• Corequisites: None
• Co-badged status: None
• Unit description: The unit explores the benefits and limitations of information systems in organizations, emphasizing the critical role of information systems in supporting business functions.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:

• Evaluate the role of Information Systems and Accounting Information Systems in supporting the business processes of an organization
• Discuss the importance and benefits of systems development methodologies and evaluate the role of ethics and ethical decision making within the Accounting Information System context
• Analyse risks and develop control plans pertinent to primary business activities
• Demonstrate effective communication and interaction skills through the delivery of oral presentations and engagement in group discussions

Assessment Tasks

• Skills development: Information systems and data analytics (15%, due Week 4 and Week 9)
• Professional practice: Business information systems (40%, due Week 7 and Week 11)
• Formal and observed learning: Test (45%, due Week 13)

Skills Development: Information Systems and Data Analytics

• Assessment Type: Practice-based task
• Indicative Time on Task: 15 hours
• Weighting: 15%
• Deliverable: Individual written tasks, individual assessment
• Skills in focus: Critical Analysis, Problem Solving, Communication

Professional Practice: Business Information Systems

• Assessment Type: Problem set
• Indicative Time on Task: 40 hours
• Weighting: 40%
• Deliverable: Written report (max 2,500 words), individual and group assessment
• Skills in focus: Collaboration skills, Analytical skills, Problem solving, Self-management

Formal and Observed Learning: Test

• Assessment Type: Quiz/Test
• Indicative Time on Task: 25 hours
• Weighting: 45%
• Deliverable: Test, individual assessment
• Skills in focus: Discipline knowledge, Critical thinking, Analytical skills

Delivery and Resources

Students need to purchase subscriptions to access the required textbooks via Wiley Business Now. The textbooks used are:

• Blount, Alison Parkes, Brett Considine, Karin Oleson, Y. Accounting Information Systems. (5th Edition). Wiley Global Education Australia, 2015.
• Rainer, R., K. and Brad Prince. Introduction to Information Systems, International Adaptation. (9th Edition). Wiley Global Education UK, 2022
• Stone, Cox, Gavin, Carpini. Human Resource Management (11th Edition). Wiley Global Education, 2024.
• Dzuranin, Ann C., Geerts, G., Lenk, M. Data and analytics in accounting: An integrated approach (1st edition). Wiley & Sons, 2022.

Unit Schedule

Policies and Procedures

Macquarie University policies and procedures are accessible from Policy Central. Students should be aware of the following policies in particular with regard to Learning and Teaching:

• Academic Appeals Policy
• Academic Integrity Policy
• Academic Progression Policy
• Assessment Policy
• Fitness to Practice Procedure
• Assessment Procedure
• Complaints Resolution Procedure for Students and Members of the Public
• Special Consideration Policy

Academic Integrity

At Macquarie, academic integrity honesty, respect, trust, responsibility, fairness, and courage is at the core of learning, teaching, and research. The university offers a range of resources and services to help students reach their potential.

Student Support

Macquarie University provides a range of support services for students, including:

• Academic Success
• The Library
• IT Support
• Accessibility and disability support
• Mental health support
• Safety support
• Social support
• Student Advocacy

Changes since First Published

• Date: 17/07/2025
• Description: Change in the order of topics in the lecture schedule to align better with the tutorial schedule.