I recently received my final results for TM352 Web, Mobile, and Cloud Technologies, and I was pleasantly surprised by my overall mark. While my EMA score was slightly lower than expected, my strong performance in the earlier TMAs balanced out my final grade. This experience reminded me of the importance of investing effort into early coursework, as the difficulty of later assignments—and the EMA—increases significantly.
Why Early Coursework Matters
If you’re juggling multiple modules like I am, starting another one halfway through, you’ll know the added pressure this brings. That’s why it’s crucial to focus on your early TMAs; they can provide a safety net when later assignments ramp up in complexity. This is even more important if your module includes an exam, where strong early marks can make a significant difference.
Another factor to keep in mind is that EMAs and exams are often marked or reviewed by a different tutor, each with their own marking style and expectations. TM352 introduced a unique marking approach where you needed to meet the requirements of lower bands before earning marks in higher ones, aiming to maintain consistency across different markers.
The Practical Challenge of TM359
Recently, I submitted TMA02 for TM359 Systems Penetration Testing, which turned out to be the most hands-on assignment of my degree so far. Unlike previous coursework that balanced practical tasks with written components, TMA02 focused almost entirely on practical application. The assignment was divided into three ‘experiences,’ each with several ‘challenges’ similar to ‘Capture the Flag’ (CTF) activities.
Using various hacking tools within a sandboxed system, the goal was to uncover specific pieces of information, documenting the process with screenshots and brief explanations. Each experience increased in difficulty, with hints available for the first two but none for the final challenge—you’re entirely on your own.
Though demanding, TMA02 was also incredibly rewarding. To prepare, I recommend engaging in as many CTF activities as possible. The module offers some practice exercises, but there are numerous external platforms with similar challenges that can help sharpen your skills.
Looking Ahead to the TM359 EMA
With TMA02 behind me, my focus shifts to the TM359 EMA. This final assignment involves less practical work and more writing, similar to TMA01, and includes a 3,000-word limit. However, this EMA also introduces a collaborative element, requiring students to work together through forum discussions.
To manage this, I plan to allocate extra time to ensure I can engage effectively with my fellow students. For those who like to stay ahead of the course schedule, this might mean waiting for others to catch up. Conversely, if you tend to leave things until the last minute, the collaborative aspect could present some challenges.
Final Thoughts
Navigating TM352 and TM359 has been a mix of surprises and intense practical experiences. While early coursework can help buffer your final marks, strategic preparation—especially for practical assessments like TM359’s TMA02—can make the process more rewarding. As I move into the final stages of TM359, the focus remains on staying organized, managing time wisely, and embracing both the challenges and opportunities that come my way.