Recommended: High school algebra, MAT 070, or equivalent skills

Course introduces computers and information systems. Content includes fundamental concepts of hardware and software as applied to computers in a business environment; programming, operating systems, the Internet, data communications, systems development life cycle, and information systems; use of typical software packages including word processing, spreadsheeting, database and presentation graphics. Hands-on experience with personal computers in labs. Intended for those seeking a career as a computer professional, an understanding of the role of Information Systems in the business community, or introductory “end user” computer skills.

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

1. Explain the functions of hardware, software, data, procedures, and people in a business computer system
2. Identify the major hardware elements of a computer system and describe the purpose of each element
3. Understand the role of and use a variety of widely-used software packages including spreadsheets, word processors, databases, and presentation software
4. Demonstrate an understanding of the operating system and execute its associated commands properly
5. Demonstrate an understanding of the programming process and the role of software in solving business-related problems
6. Describe how communications and network technology is used
7. Understand the role of and use of the Internet
8. Identify the requirements for choosing specific hardware systems and software packages
9. Explain the role of information and how management information systems (MIS) are developed and used in an organization
10. Explain what a database is including database terminology and the role it plays in a business environment including how it is used on the Web
11. Understand how multimedia is used to enhance communication
12. Identify and describe the different steps of the system development life cycle and the type of activities performed in each step
13. Understand computer-related ethical, security, privacy, and legal issues
14. Describe careers opportunities in the computer field

Students and employees at Oakton Community College are required to demonstrate academic integrity and follow Oakton's Code of Academic Conduct. This code prohibits:

• cheating,
• plagiarism (turning in work not written by you, or lacking proper citation),
• falsification and fabrication (lying or distorting the truth),
• helping others to cheat,
• unauthorized changes on official documents,
• pretending to be someone else or having someone else pretend to be you,
• making or accepting bribes, special favors, or threats, and
• any other behavior that violates academic integrity.

There are serious consequences to violations of the academic integrity policy. Oakton's policies and procedures provide students a fair hearing if a complaint is made against you. If you are found to have violated the policy, the minimum penalty is failure on the assignment and, a disciplinary record will be established and kept on file in the office of the Vice President for Student Affairs for a period of 3 years.
Details of the Code of Academic Conduct can be found in the Student Handbook.

A. An overview of Information Systems and its role in society
     1. History of computers and related technological advances
     2. Impact of computers-sociological and ethical considerations
     3. Computer applications
     4. The role of the Information Systems department in the business organization
     5. Career opportunities

B. Computer hardware
     1. Functional elements
         a. I/O devices and methods
         b. CPU and memory
         c. Auxiliary storage
     2. Categories of computers by size

C. Data representation and organization
     1. Codes and numbering systems
     2. Organization of information
          a. Sequential and random
          b. Files and data bases

D. Software
     1. Programming concepts
         a. Overview of programming languages
         b. The programming process
         c. The role of structured programming
        *d. Writing program code
     2. Operating systems and environments
         a. functions and terminology
         b. Operation systems used today
       *c. Usage
     3. Applications software
        *a. Word processing
        *b. Spreadsheets
        *c. Data base management
        *d. Other applications software such as Presentation Graphics and Desktop Publishing
     4. Data communications
        *a. Internet
        *b. E-mail

E. Introduction to systems analysis and design
     1. Life cycle of a system
     2. Role of the systems analyst
     3. Analysis and design tools

F. Management information and decision support systems
     1. Definition
     2. Uses
     3. People, Software, and Hardware Component

G. Data and Voice Communications
     1. Hardware and software requirements
     2. Types of Networks
     3. Network Information Services

*Separate laboratory instruction and hands-on exercises will be given for each of these topics.

Methods of instruction include lecture, class discussion, group and/or individual assignments including software applications. Course may be taught as face-to-face, media-based, hybrid or online course.
Course may be taught as face-to-face, media-based, hybrid or online course.

The student will be expected to read the text and do written and oral assignments as specified by the instructor. The student will spend one (1) hour per week (25% of the course) in scheduled lab activities using word processing, spreadsheet and database software. In addition 15 - 25% of lecture time will be spent on discussing the use of business software tools.

LECTURE TEXT: Understanding Computers, Today and Tomorrow, 13th Edition, Authored by Deborah Morley and Charles S. Parker, Published by Course Technology or equivalent textbook
LAB TEXT:  Microsoft Office 2010 Illustrated Series Fundamentals, Authored by Hunt Waxer, Published by Course Technology or equivalent textbook.

A.    Quizzes to be determined by instructor
B.    Exams (essay, multiple choice, fill-in-the-blank) to be determined by instructor
C.    Evaluation of lab exercises 
D.    Evaluation of other homework assignments (e.g. student presentations, research papers)

Application software used:  Office 2010 (Word, Access, Excel, PowerPoint), Windows 7 or higher, Internet Brower, email, programming language (e.g., Visual BASIC)

If you have a documented learning, psychological, or physical disability you may be entitled to reasonable academic accommodations or services. To request accommodations or services, contact the ASSIST office in the Learning Center. All students are expected to fulfill essential course requirements. The College will not waive any essential skill or requirement of a course or degree program.