CS 1305 Introduction to Computer Technology

 

Instructor: Dr. Hong Lin       Office: S-717

Office Hours: MW 1:30pm-2:30pm, TR 1:00pm-3:30pm

Campus Phone: (713) 221 2781       E-mail: linh@uhd.edu

Course Web Site: http://cms.uhd.edu/faculty/linh/courses/CS1305

 

Catalog Description: (3-3-0) Topics include the history and nature of computers, ethical and societal issues, overview of computer and information systems, the Internet and the World Wide Web, with emphasis on computer applications and  the use of standard software packages.

Course Prerequisites: Placement in ENG 1301 or above. Students not meeting these prerequisites are subject to being dropped from the course without prior notification at their own expense.

Learning Outcomes: Upon successful completion of this course, a student should:

  1. Identify the basic hardware components of a computer system and their functions
  2. Identify the major software components of a computer system and their functions
  3. Demonstrate familiarity with the Internet, the World Wide Web, and the main web resources
  4. Demonstrate familiarity with security issues related to computer and communication systems, particularly as they relate to the use of the Internet and the World Wide Web.
  5. Demonstrate familiarity with information systems
  6. Demonstrate familiarity with the social impact of computer and communication technology.
  7. Use basic application software, particularly word processors (MS Word), spreadsheets (MS Excel), presentation software (MS Power Point), and database management systems (MS Access).

Textbook:  

1.  Technology in Action, 8th Edition by Evans, Pearson-Prentice Hall

2.   Exploring Microsoft Office 2010, Volume 1, by Grauer

3.   MyItLab access code.

 

Printed version: You may purchase the printed version of the 2 textbooks bundled with MyItLab access code at the UHD bookstore ISBN: 0132849135

Electronic version: You may purchase the access code to MyItLab with access to e-texts of both textbooks at the UHD bookstore or at www.myitlab.com: ISBN: 0135107148

 

MyItLab Course ID: CRSABKB-82737

 

Method of Evaluation:  Course grade will be determined by a minimum of two exams, a comprehensive final exam, and assignments and exercises. The exams should count at least 60% of the course grade and the assignments should count at least 30% of the course grade. The date of the exams should be announced at least one week in advance.

 

Specific grading policy for Spring 2013 is:

-         3 midterm exams 12% each

-         Final exam (comprehensive) 24%

-         Assignments in MyITLab 30%

-         Attendance 10%

 

Statement on Reasonable Accommodations: UHD adheres to all applicable federal, state, and local laws, regulations, and guidelines with respect to providing reasonable accommodations for students with disabilities. Students with disabilities should be notified to register with Disabled Student Services (in S409) and contact the instructor in a timely manner to arrange for appropriate accommodations. Whenever possible, and in accordance with 504/ADA guidelines, UHD will attempt to provide reasonable academic adjustments/auxiliary aids to students who request and require them. Students may call 713-226-5227 for more assistance.

 

Course Content: 

 

Conceptual Component:  12 chapters from the textbook “Technology in Action, 8e in the same order they are presented in the book.  This component is evaluated using at least two midterm exams and a comprehensive final exam.

 

Topic

Chapter

Why Computers Matter to You: Becoming Computer Literate

Technology in Focus: The History of the PC

1

Looking at Computers: Understanding the Parts

2

Using the Internet: Making the Most of the Web’s Resources

Technology in Focus: Information Technology Ethics

3

Application Software: Programs That Let You Work and Play  

4

Using System Software: The Operating System, Utility Programs, and File Management

Technology in Focus: Computing Alternatives

5

Understanding and Assessing Hardware: Evaluating Your System

6

Networking: Connecting Computing Devices

Technology in Focus: Under the Hood

7

Digital Lifestyle: Managing Digital Data and Devices

8

Digital Lifestyle: Protecting Digital Data and Devices

Technology in Focus:  Careers in IT

9

Behind the Scenes: Building Applications 

10

Behind the Scenes: Databases and Information Systems

11

Behind the Scenes: Networking and Security in the Business World

12

 

 

Practical Component:  15 chapters from Exploring Microsoft Office 2010. Evaluated using quizzes and hands-on exercises/projects.

WORD: Chapter 1 – Chapter 4 

POWERPOINT: Chapter 1 – Chapter 3

EXCEL: Chapter 1 – Chapter 4 

ACCESS: Chapter 1 – Chapter 4

 

Tentative Course Schedule:

This is the tentative course schedule. It will be updated during the semester. You should check it regularly for the exam dates. All assignments are in MyITLab and should be completed by the specified due dates. Although it will be updated in the best effort, any conflicts should be resolved according to the announcements made in the class.

 

Week

Tuesday

Thursday

1

1/15

Chapter 1

1/17

Chapter 2

2

1/22

Chapter 2

1/24
Chapter 3

3

1/29

Chapter 3

1/31

Chapter 4

4

2/5
Chapter 4

2/7
1st Test

5

2/12

Chapter 5

2/14

Chapter 5

6

2/19

Chapter 6

2/21

Chapter 6

7

2/26

Chapter 7

2/28

Chapter 7

8

3/5

Chapter 8

3/7

Chapter 8

 

3/12

Spring Break

3/14

Spring Break

9

3/19

2nd Test

3/21

Chapter 9

10

3/26

Chapter 9

3/28

Chapter 10

11

4/2

Chapter 10

4/4

Chapter 11

12

4/9
Chapter 11

4/11
Chapter 12

13

4/16
Chapter 12

4/18

3rd Test

14

4/23

Review for Final Exam

4/25

Review for Final Exam

15

4/30

Reading Day

5/2

Final Exam 4:00-6:30pm