ACS3765 - Auditing C - 2018

This unit focuses on computer information systems (CIS) and business cycles. The unit introduces the management of computer information systems (CIS) with a particular focus on the internal controls that should be present in a CIS environment and would be of interest to the external auditor. The important concepts and procedures to use and audit financial databases and CIS are addressed. The download of financial data and its manipulation in order to verify and audit it, as well as the performance of computer assisted auditing techniques (CAATs) on this data are examined in this unit. The influence of the internet and e-commerce on the business and auditing environments, as well as applicable legislation are also covered. In addition, this unit contains demonstrations of using spreadsheets and selected audit software often used by accountants and auditors in practice. The unit further covers business activities namely revenue and receipts, bank and cash, purchases and payments, inventory and production, payroll and personnel, and finance and investment. The unit concludes by addressing going concern, and reliance on other parties.

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. describe computer security and controls (general and application), and apply that knowledge in order to assess the relevant audit risks and to make recommendations, as an external auditor, for the improvement of security and controls in simulated simple and advanced CIS environments and networks
2. design audit procedures (both tests of control and substantive) including the use of computer assisted audit techniques (CAATs) in response to the risk assessment in simulated practical scenarios for all business processes.
3. explain the influence of the internet and e-commerce on the business and auditing environments, including relevant legislation
4. explain the use of the computer practically as a business, accounting and auditing tool with reference to spreadsheet analysis software, CAATs software and automated audit working papers in selected case studies
5. describe how auditors identify and assess going concern problems
6. describe the transaction flow within a cycle, including a reference to the documents and people involved
7. identify the instances where an auditor will find it effective and efficient to engage other parties to gather evidence and describe the procedures the auditor needs to perform on the work of the other parties.

Within semester assessment: 40% + Examination: 60%

Minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours per semester typically comprising a mixture of scheduled learning activities and independent study. Independent study may include associated readings, assessment and preparation for scheduled activities. The unit requires on average three/four hours of scheduled activities per week. Scheduled activities may include a combination of teacher directed learning, peer directed learning and online engagement.

See also Unit timetable information