Software Development Units 3 & 4

Built for the VCE Applied Computing Study Design 2020–2023, this second edition gives Unit 3 & 4 Software Development students a clear path through programming, analysis, design, development, evaluation, and cybersecurity. Vic Farrell uses Microsoft Visual Basic as the primary teaching language, with additional coverage of PHP basics for broader exposure.

Inside the Unit 3 & 4 Structure

The chapters map directly to the key knowledge and skills expected in the study design. Unit 3 opens with programming concepts such as data types, arrays, dictionaries, hash tables, and file formats including CSV, TXT, and XML. The analysis and design chapter then introduces planning tools like IPO charts, data dictionaries, mock-ups, object descriptions, and pseudocode.

Programming and Data Handling

Instead of treating algorithms as abstract ideas, the book walks through practical examples—linear and binary searches, selection and quick sorts, validation techniques, and trace tables. Visual Basic examples show how each concept translates into working modules, while clear naming conventions and internal documentation are reinforced throughout.

Development, Evaluation, and Cybersecurity

Unit 4 extends the work into full solution development, evaluation, and the cybersecurity knowledge required for the VCE Applied Computing course. The chapters include assessment tasks designed to help students apply what they have learned under SAC-style conditions.

Visual Basic and PHP in One Book

While Visual Basic serves as the main language, the dedicated PHP Basics chapter introduces another widely used option. This dual-language approach helps students understand that core programming and design ideas carry across different environments.

Built for the VCE Classroom

Teachers will find the structure aligned with Areas of Study and key knowledge points, while students can use the worked examples, diagrams, and assessment tasks for revision and SAC preparation. It is a practical, curriculum-focused textbook that stays close to the study design it was written for.

• Data types, arrays, dictionaries, and hash tables
• IPO charts, data dictionaries, and pseudocode
• Linear and binary search; selection and quick sort
• Validation, testing, and trace tables
• Visual Basic working modules
• PHP basics
• Cybersecurity for Unit 4
• Assessment tasks and SAC preparation