Course Description
This course provides a general introduction to computers, applications software, programming, hardware and computer information systems. Emphasis will be placed on computer literacy topics such as hardware, software, operating systems, programming languages, data communications, applications software and information systems. This course is suitable for students who wish to use the computer as a tool for problem solving.
Note: Students who have received credit for CISY1110 or CSIS 1190 will not receive further credit for CSIS1110.
Course Content
- Introduction to computer hardware and software
- Computers as a tool: helping people solve problems
- Computer categories: microcomputers, minicomputers, mainframes, supercomputers
- Operating system concepts
- Numbering systems and computer's internal data representation
- Spreadsheet software basics: worksheet environment, entering data/formulas, editing, cell references, recalculating formulas, designing templates, "what if" analysis, graphics
- Database software basics: system environment, creating structure, displaying records, sorting records, manipulating records, report generation, query facility
- Word processing software basics: system environment, features and functions, editing, formatting, printing options, search/replace and block commands
- Presentation graphics software: system environment, features and functions, editing, formatting and printing options
- Current programming languages
- Internet terminology and use of a Web browser
- The usage of e-mail
Learning Activities
Lecture, seminar and hands-on activities in the computer lab and online.
Means of Assessment
| Assignments (Minimum: 4) |
20%-30% |
| Participation |
0-5% |
| Quizzes (1-5) |
10%-20% |
Midterm Examinations(s) or
Major Tests (1-5) |
25%-35% |
| Final Examination |
25%-30% |
| Total |
100% |
Note that the combined total of Assignments and Participation is not to exceed 30%.
Learning Outcomes
The student will be able to:
- explain the fundamental concepts of computer hardware and software
- analyze a problem, decide whether it can or should be solved by a computer, and provide an appropriate solution
- describe the major components of applications software in the areas of word processing, spreadsheets, database management, presentation graphics, data communications, and Internet
- use an operating system software in the Windows environment
- use software packages in word processing, spreadsheets, database management, graphics
- describe the computer information system life-cycle
- use Web browsers, search engines and e-mail.
Textbook Materials
Textbooks and Materials to be Purchased by Students
- Evans, Alan et al. Introductory Technology in Action, current edition. Prentice Hall
- Gaskin, Shelley et al. Go! Office 2007 Introductory, current edition, Prentice Hall and supplementary materials packaged with these textbooks.
- USB flash drive, minimum 1GB capacity.