REND LAKE COLLEGE

CSCI 1101
INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTERS

PREREQUISITE: Typing skill.

COURSE DESCRIPTION:
An introduction to the concepts and features of computer systems, with an
emphasis on information processing. Topics covered include computer hardware,
application software, system software, networks, Internet, computer applications
and social issues, data security and control. The student will learn the basic
commands and operations of Windows.

CREDIT: 3 credit hours. Lecture 3 hours.

MATERIALS REQUIRED:
Textbooks: Computing Essentials 2008, Introductory Edition. O’Leary, O’Leary,
McGraw-Hill, 2008.
Microsoft Office 2007, Illustrated Series Brief, Hunt, Halvorson, Course
Technology, 2008.
USB Flash Drive
Windows Live Account

LEARNER OUTCOMES:
• Explain the fundamentals of information processing.
• Identify the main components of the processing unit including: main memory,
the central processing unit, and its basic components.
• Identify and categorize (input/output) various hardware devices including:
keyboards, types of printers, and types of monitors.
• Describe commonly used application software including: word processing,
database, spreadsheets, and graphics.
• Discuss the primary functions of the operating system.
• Identify various types of operating systems.
• Distinguish between system software and application software.
• Identify various types of user interfaces.
• Describe methods of data entry.
• Identify various processor architectures.
• Explain the use and distinctions of auxiliary storage devices including: floppy
disks,
hard drives, tape/cartridge, and optical devices.
• Discuss the key features of file organization and data storage.
• Demonstrate an understanding of basic operations of the IBM-PC.
• Describe the rules for creating a valid filename.
• Create a document using basic word processing features.
• Create a spreadsheet using basic spreadsheet features.
• Demonstrate the ability to access and use the Internet.
• Create a presentation using basic electronic presentation features.
• Describe the main features of data base storage.
• Set up a simple database, perform simple queries on a database.
 • Discuss fundamental features of data communications including
communication channels, line configuration, types of signals, types of
transmission, various communication equipment, networks, and information
sharing.
• Explain the fundamentals of systems analysis and design including the
primary steps involved in information system development.
• Identify the steps involved with program development including: review
specifications, program design, basic control structures, design tools, coding,
testing, documentation and maintenance.
• Identify the various levels of programming languages.
• Describe the primary purpose of various high level languages including
FORTRAN, COBOL, ADA, P1/I, C, PASCAL, RPG, and BASIC.
• Describe the various career opportunities related to information processing.
• Discuss the trends and issues related to the information age including the
automated office and factory, personal services, telecommuting, education,
computer crime and security, privacy, and ethics.

METHODS OF EVALUATION:

• Quizzes
• Homework Assignments
• Exams

INSTITUTIONAL OUTCOMES:
Rend Lake College has adopted four essential learner outcomes, fundamental
learning objectives embedded in every program of study, that all degree-completing
students should be able to demonstrate. They are as follows:
• Critical Thinking: Demonstrate the ability to think in a self-directed,
reflective manner when understanding, evaluating and solving problems.
• Problem-Solving: Demonstrate the ability to resolve computational
problems.
• Oral Communication: Demonstrate the ability to communicate clearly,
concisely, and effectively through verbal and non-verbal language.
• Written Communication: Demonstrate the ability to communicate clearly,
concisely, and effectively through written language.

COURSE OUTLINE:
1. Information, Technology, the Internet, and You
a. Information Systems
b. People
c. Software
d. Hardware
e. Data
f. Connectivity, the Wireless Revolution, and the Internet
2. Application Software
a. Software Applications
b. Browsers
 c. Presentation Graphics
d. Creating and Modifying a PowerPoint 2007 Presentation
e. Polishing and Running a PowerPoint 2007 Presentation
f. Word Processors
3. Creating a Document with Word 2007
4. Enhancing a document
a. Spreadsheets
5. Adding special elements to a document
6. Creating and Enhancing a Worksheet with Excel 2007
7. Working with Excel functions
8. Creating Excel charts
a. Database Management Systems
b. Software Suites
c. Integrated Packages
9. System Software
a. System Software
b. Operating Systems
c. Utilities
d. Device Drivers
e. Language Translators
10.The System Unit
a. System Unit
b. Electronic Data and Instructions
c. System Board
d. Microprocessor
e. Memory
f. System Clock
g. Expansion Slots and Cards
h. Bus Lines
i. Ports and Cables
11.Input and Output
a. What is Input?
i. Keyboard Entry
ii.Pointing Devices
iii.Scanning Devices
iv.Image Capturing Devices
v.Digitizing Devices
vi.Audio-Input Devices
b. What is Output?
i. Monitors
ii.Printers
iii.Audio-Output Devices
c. Combination Input and Output Devices
12.Secondary Storage
a. Storage
b. Floppy Disks
c. Hard Disks
d. Optical Disks
e. Other Types of Secondary Storage
13.Connectivity, the Wireless Revolution, and Communications
 a. Connectivity, the Wireless Revolution, and Communication Systems
b. Communication Channels
c. Connection Devices
d. Data Transmission
e. Networks
f. Network Architecture
g. Network Types
14.The Internet, the Web, and Electronic Commerce
a. The Internet and the Web Access
b. Communication
c. Search Tools
d. Electronic Commerce
e. Web Utilities
f. Organizational Internets: Intranets and Extranets
15.Privacy and Security
a. People
b. Privacy
c. Security
d. Ergonomics
e. The Environment
16.Your Future and Information Technology
a. Changing Times
b. Technology and People
c. How You Can Be a Winner
d. Consider a Career in Information Systems

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY:

This class is subject to the college’s Academic Integrity policy. All submitted work
must be your own. Cheating or Plagiarism will not be tolerated. Any student found
in violation of this policy will be subject to disciplinary action as outlined by the
Rend Lake College’s Academic Integrity policy.

EQUAL EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITY:

Rend Lake College is committed to providing equal educational opportunities for all
persons without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, or disability.
The following have been designated to handle inquiries:

From students & staff:

Vice President of Finance & Administration
Administration Building, Room 159—Ext. 1223
Or
Dean of Special Programs
Administration Building, Room 137—Ext. 1277

STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES:

If you have, or believe you have, a disability and would benefit from
accommodations, please contact Sue Cunningham at ext. 1204 and located in the
North Oasis in the Learning Enhancement Center, North Oasis, Room 120.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: See instructor-provided documentation for policies

and practices for this course.

Date of Construction or Revision: 5/31/2010