Catalog Course Description
Introduces concepts of information technology and computing. Topics include software, computing devices, the Internet and the Web, organization, storage, and representation of data. Provides hands-on experience with installing a few key IT infrastructure components.
Pre-requisites and Co-requisites
No specific prerequisite
Curriculum Role
This is a required course for BSIS and BSIT students. It is usually taken first term of the first year. It may also be taken by students in other majors who want to gain an introduction to information technology. BSIS and BSIT majors with substantial prior background in computing may waive this course by passing an examination. When waived, the course will be replaced by INFO elective credits.
Course Rationale
This course provides a foundation of concepts and terminology related to IT and computing generally. It also gives students an opportunity to gain hands-on experience in installing and verifying operation of a Web server and database management system. The hands-on work will be done with students working in pairs or small teams. The lab periods will be used for student assignments and demonstrations.
Course Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, a student will be able to:
•Define and discuss types and key characteristics of software systems
•Define characteristics of computing devices including functions and operations of basic hardware components
•Install and verify basic operation of a Web server and a database server
Course Content
Principal topics and the approximate number of weeks devoted to each are:
•The Internet and the Web (2)
•Software (3)
•Software types and characteristics
•Web servers
•Computing devices (3)
•Database and information systems (1)
•Database servers
•Society and information technology (1)
Presentation
Note: Presentation method may vary somewhat from section to section.
Teaching method includes lectures, group exercises, demonstrations, and class discussion.
Assessment
Note: Assessment method may vary somewhat from section to section.
Homework, midterm and final exams, and class participation.
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