Western Nevada College
IS 101 Introduction to Information Systems
Syllabus

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Course Description:

Introduces the student to the role of computers in today's technology-driven environment, allowing for hands on lab experience. Students will be introduced to the Internet, distance education, and the World Wide Web, along with operating systems, word processing, spreadsheets, database and basic multi-media. Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to demonstrate basic computer survival skills, understand computer terminology, and create data using a variety of software.

 

Required Textbook & Material:

Shelly, G.B., Vermaat, M.E., (2012). Discovering Computers: Your Interactive Guide to the Digital World. Brief. Cambridge, MA: Course Technology. ISBN-1111997241

Shelly, G.B., Vermaat, M.E., (2010). Microsoft Office 2010: Essential. Cambridge, MA: Course Technology. ISBN-10: 0-538-74870-2.

 

Removable Media Device: USB Flash Drive 1G+
Operating System: Windows 7
MicroSoft Office 2010 (Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint). Lab may be utilized. Please note: Be warned, some students only get the student version of Office and it does not have Access.

*Learning the vocabulary of technology is two-thirds the battle. Hence, I urge you to keep a running vocabulary list as you read the text.

Course Objectives: The successful student will demonstrate

1. Identify the categories and components of computers, define basic terminology, and explain the difference between system software, application software, hardware, and networks.
2. Use Windows skills to work with programs, manage files, and create shortcuts on the desktop.
3. Explain and demonstrate the advantages and usages of integrated software and software suites.
4. Describe how memory stores programs and data, and discuss the sequence of operations that occur when instructions are executed on a computer.
5. Understand the commonly used input and output devices.
6. Show understanding of the storage operations and the various types of storage devices that are used with computers.
7. Use the computer as a communication tool for the business, organizations, and everyday life using communication software.
8. Describe the Internet and how it works, understand the Web documents and how they are linked to one another, and explain the Internet services.
9. Demonstrate and discuss the use of email client, web browsers, online data, and multimedia applications.
10. Demonstrate the understanding of basic word processing, database, and spreadsheet software.

Methods of Instruction:

Lecture, hands-on instruction, handouts, demonstrations, assignments, and personalized help will be utilized. Much of class time will be used to demonstrate the practical use of the software, but students are required to work through material in the textbooks during the remaining lab time. Class agenda, instructional material, and student assignments will be posted on the Intranet. WNC supports providing equal access for students with disabilities. Disability support services are available to assist appropriate academic accommodations that students may require, please contact me immediately (by second week of class) to ensure timely accommodations.

 

Attendance:

Credit will be given for classes attended. Students are expected to attend class and will be given 10 pts. per class (approximately 140 pts.) for full participation and effort. No cell phones in class, treat others with mutual respect, and bring your own bucket. Arrangements for absences must be made prior to class in order for full credit to be earned on any graded material. Each assignment is due in its entirety by the start of the next class, late work is not accepted unless prior arrangements have been made and may incur a penalty grade. Quizzes and tests are not subject to make up.

 

Grading:

Weekly, students will receive a grade for performance of each project, reading, quizzes, tests, and/or class discussions. Grades will be based upon the percentage of the total possible (approximately 1100 pts). To help figure your individual course grade see grade sheet given in class. All grades/totals are subject to change during the semester. Access your final grade through your individual webreg account. The grading scale is as follows and may include + and - grades:
100-90 = A
89 - 80 = B
79 - 70 = C
69 - 60 = D
59 - 00 = F or W
Grade F or W for withdrawal may be assigned at instructors discretion for unexcused absences in excess of three meetings or for failure to complete class assignments. Grade F may be assigned for any form of academic dishonesty (refer to WNC Policy).

 

Grading Criteria: Approximate point totals

Attendance 140
Midterm (1) 100
Final (2) 200
Homework 400
Office Projects 200

 

Course Work Schedule:

Following is a tentative list of class dates, due dates, and class discussion topics which are subject to change. It is the students responsibility to look up the current agenda on the web page, which will be updated frequently, based on in class discussion. Web site agenda: www.wnc.edu/~malkovic/infosysag.htm

5 Things to keep in mind:

1. Tell me, I'll forget. Show me, I might remember. Involve me, I'll understand.
2. This is a college course, expect to be challenged, pushed, and hopefully in the end, excited by what you’ve accomplished.

3. You have access to the ‘Net from the lab while you are taking this class. Should you have another access, feel free to use it as well. Email will be used as one form of communication.
4. The Internet is a powerful tool that can be used and abused. Be responsible and use common sense.

5. Be honest and straight with me, and I’ll be delighted to be the same with you. If you have concerns about anything speak to me immediately.

Last Updated: January 24, 2012 This syllabus is subject to change up to the date class starts, thereafter changes will be posted in class discussions.
Page Author: Janeen L. Malkovich, M.Ed.

Class Notes: (use the space below for class notes and course changes)