Advanced information systems auditing: a case study in course design and evaluation

This paper discusses the approach adopted by the author in designing a graduate Information Systems auditing course at the Australian National University. First the paper identifies the environment in which the course operated, the resources available to it and the objectives to be achieved. Particular recognition is given to the pervasive effects of diverse and complex Information Technology on auditing. Next, the teaching components consisting of topics, mode of instruction and grading are outlined. General Systems Theory (GST) provided the hallmarks for identifying the range of topics for the course. As part of its evaluation, the course was compared with advanced IS auditing courses at other universities, both in Australia and Northern America. Students in Australian courses appear to have spent more time on cases and problems and in computer laboratories and less time on the computer audit process than students in the USA/Canada. Recommendations for the Australian National University course are that more time could be spent on cases and problems in tutorials and in computer laboratories.