Course Description: An introductory course designed to provide students with a fundamental understanding of computers. Emphasis is placed on the application of microcomputers, the use of productivity software (word processing, spreadsheet, database and presentation), the Internet, and the social and ethical aspects of the impact of computers on society.

Course Objectives: Upon completion of the course each student will:

1. know the components of a computer system and how they work together.
2. be comfortable using the major types of computer software (operating systems, word processors, spreadsheets, databases, and presentation software).
3. understand how the Internet operates and be able to create a basic homepage on the World Wide Web.
4. be aware of the range of issues related to the growing use of computers in society.
5. be able to employ problem-solving techniques using software applications.

Office Hours: 0800-1530 in the library

Meeting Times: to be determined

Location: to be determined

Class Attendance: Students are expected to attend all classes and laboratories. Absences due to illness do not relieve a student from the responsibility of making up any work that was missed. It is the responsibility of the student to obtain information concerning missed work and to see that it is completed and turned in.

Plagiarism: Plagiarism, as outlined in the Westhill University catalog, is a serious academic infraction. If you have any questions about this topic, please discuss them with the instructor before submitting the assignment.

Text: Parker, Charles S. Understanding Computers: today & tomorrow, 98 edition Fort Worth, TX: The Dryden Press.

Readings: Will be announced in class.

Assignments:

1. a project involving the use of each of the software applications covered in this course.
2. a short paper on some aspect of the impact of computers on society.

Grading:

1. Project - 40%
   • word processing component - 5%
   • spreadsheet component - 5%
   • database component - 5%
   • presentation component - 5%
   • web page (HTML) component - 5%
   • final project submission - 15%
2. Paper - 20%
3. Quizzes - 10%
4. Participation - 10%
5. Final Exam - 20%