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CSC 199

I. TITLE:     Introduction to Information Technology

II. CATALOG DESCRIPTION:
This introductory computing course is designed for students pursuing any program of study. It is intended to provide the student with knowledge about computing in general and personal computing in particular. In addition to general concepts about computing in our technological society, the student will acquire competency with Windows and its file management system, word processing software, electronic spreadsheet software, presentation software, and other timely applica-tions dictated by the rapid growth and development in the field. Corequisite:
Math 117, 120, or appropriate Math ACT score (ACT Math score of at least 20). (Special situations may be allowed with instructor consent.)

III. PURPOSE:
To introduce the student to fundamental information about computers and com-puting and how this progressive technology affects and improves our lives. In addition, the student will be instructed in the use of and gain competency with personal productivity software including but not limited to that contained in the catalog description.

The course addresses the following “Characteristics of the Murray State University Graduate”:

Engage in mature independent thought and express that thought effectively in oral and written communication; Understand the role and application of technology and science in the solution of the problems in a changing world;

The course addresses the following in the specified ways:
Introduce students to fundamental concepts and ways of knowing in various disciplines -
Students are cognizant that they are taking a ‘tools and techniques’ course where both the tools learned and the techniques presented are applicable across the curricu-lum and in the workplace.
Promote interdisciplinary understanding by clarifying how the content and methods of a discipline contribute to an under-standing of its function in society -
The lecture component of this course allocates signifi-cant time to the human issues of computing and how the technology impacts education, business, government, and society.
Emphasize international perspectives whenever possible -
Units on both telecommunications and competition in the technology marketplace give ample opportunity for discussion of the global issues of the computerization of our society.

V. COURSE CONTENT:
Lecture Component -

Essential Concepts
Computer hardware and software, typical components of a com-puter system, and user interfaces
Software and Multimedia Applications
Computer Files and Data Storage
Computer Architecture
The Computer Marketplace
Local Area Networks and E-Mail
Internet and Information Highway
Data Security and Control
Other Current, Timely Topics as appropriate and time permitting

Note: We use various faculty members in the department to deliver lectures on the above topics which enhance textbook content.
Faculty members cover the lecture content in all sections of the course that relate to their specific expertise and research inter-ests.

Windows / File Management
Microsoft Office - Introduction to integrated software, menu and button bar structures, etc.
Word
Excel
Powerpoint
Access
Note: This component is continually adjusted to the needs of the student and the university. We anticipate doing less and less wordprocessing as students come in with those skills and add-ing more on database and telecommunications.

Instructional methodology will include:
lecture, demonstration, and discussion.

Instructional methodology will include:
lecture, demonstration, cooperative learning, and instructor-supervised individual performance activities.

The course addresses the following in the specified ways:

Promote student engagement in and responsibility for learning through the use of active learning methodologies (use of group discussions, student projects, and teamwork, etc.) and focus on thematic, problem-solving of issue oriented approaches whenever possiblities are such that each student is, indeed, responsible for his/her progress, comprehension, and retention.

Students are given benchmark times for completion of tasks, and they work at their own pace.
Students are encouraged to work cooperatively and col-laboratively.
Each student demonstrates the depth and breadth of their learning and comprehension through the required term paper project.

Require a significant amount of reading, writing, speaking and critical thinking as appropriate to the course -
After the instructor’s introduction to applications top-ics, each student is responsible for using tutorial-based material for actual acquisition of the skills. They read and interpret what to do instead of being told what to do.
Problems assigned following tutorial activities require extending what was learned to a similar situation.
The term paper project requires research to acquire content and application of skills learned to develop the paper itself. (The paper specifications require that students apply most of the skills learned in an integrated manner.)
Promote use of computer technology - The course is focused on this from beginning to end.

VIII. RESOURCES:

Microsoft Office Professional Software
IBM and compatible microcomputers in the laboratory-based teaching centers
Microcomputers and printers available in the open study laboratories
Microcomputer and data projector in each classroom and laboratory
Note: The Microcomputer Teaching and Study Laboratories on the second floor of the north Business Building will be used extensively by students to complete laboratory exercises and the term project.

Laboratory Component:
Applications Assignments and/or unannounced quizzes 15%
Term Research Project and Paper 15%
NOTE: In order to receive a passing grade from the
course the student must complete the research project within
the specified time frame.
Four (4) Applications Tests 40%
Lecture Component:
Three (3) Concepts Tests 30%
TOTAL 100%

X. ATTENDANCE POLICY:
Regular attendance is expected and will be monitored. Absence does not relieve responsibility for material presented and assignments made.

XI. TEXT AND REFERENCES:
NEW PERSPECTIVES SERIES: COMPUTER CONCEPTS
INTEGRATED MICROSOFT OFFICE PROFESSIONAL
by Parsons, Oja, Halvorson. et.al.

XII. PREREQUISITES:
Corequisites: MAT 117 or higher or Math ACT of 20 or higher Corequisites may be waived with instructor consent.

Last updated February 14, 2000. Designed and maintained by Kyosung Koo