HARFORD COMMUNITY COLLEGE
401 Thomas Run Road
Bel Air, MD 21015
Course Outline
COURSE NUMBER: CIS-102
COURSE NAME: Introduction to Information Sciences
DIVISION: Business, Computing & Applied Technology
LECTURE/DISCUSSION: Total Contact Hours - 45
SEMESTER CREDIT HOURS: 3
Faculty and CIS web ages available through HCC Home Page: www.harford.edu
Textbooks:
TECHNOLOGY IN ACTION COMPLETE HCC PKG
Author EVANS
Edition 10TH
Published Date
2015
ISBN 9781269864756
Publisher
PEARSON
Course ID #: CRSKL5D-4038984
Catalog Description:
This is a survey course of the characteristics, functions and applications of computers. It includes the
concepts and principles of problem solving and computer programming. Emphasis is placed on
microcomputers and application software packages, such as word processors, spreadsheets, and
graphics. Course fee.
Program Goals:
Computer Information Systems is a career oriented program focusing on the use of computers in
business. Students who successfully complete the Computer Information Systems degree will:
1. Analyze the use of commercial software applications, hardware, networks, programming, and
other technologies in information systems at a level of competence appropriate to joining the
workforce.
2. Use, maintain and modify existing information systems.
3. Design and implement new information systems.
4. Demonstrate the skills to work in a business environment including working in teams, project
management, and professional and effective communication with a wider audience.
1
Student Learning Objectives Linked to Program Goals:
Upon successful completion of this course, the student should be able to:
1. Identify the major developments in computer hardware and software. (Program Goal 1)
2. Describe the characteristics, functions and limitations of processors, storage media and
peripherals (Program Goal 1)
3. Describe the difference between developing computer programs and using software packages.
(Program Goal 1)
4. Analyze the reasons for using computer languages and software packages given their
characteristics and limitations. (Program Goal 2)
5. Discuss the complexity of global communication and the effect of computers in the
international community. (Program Goal 4)
6. Evaluate computer systems that satisfy given constraints. (Program Goal 3)
7. Access, use, and exit word processing, spreadsheet, presentation graphics, database and
operating system software, and produce a report, a spreadsheet, and a graphic presentation.
(Program Goal 1)
Course Outline:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
COMPUTER AND DIGITAL BASICS
COMPUTER HARDWARE
COMPUTER SOFTWARE
OPERATING SYSTEMS AND FILE MANAGEMENT
LOCAL AREA NETWORKS (LANS) AND WIRELESS LOCAL AREA NETWORK
(WLANS)
6. THE INTERNET
7. THE WEB AND E-MAIL
8. DIGITAL MEDIA
Application Skills Content
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
DATABASE SOFTWARE
SPREADSHEET SOFTWARE
PRESENTATION SOFTWARE
WORD PROCESSING SOFTWARE
INTERNET ASSIGNMENTS AND RESEARCH: WILL BE COMPLETED USING A WEB
BROWSER/INTERNET AND APPLICATION SOFTWARE
Instructional Methods:
Lecture/Demonstration
Cooperative Learning
Discussion
Labs
2
Interactive Lecture
Tutorials
COURSE POLICIES
HCC students are bound by the academic policies outlined in the most current HCC Catalog. It is the student’s
responsibility to review these policies prior to the start of the semester.
Attendance and Participation:
Communication with the instructor is required of all students, if you will not complete weekly
assignments due. Since assignments are to be completed and/or discussed online, participation in
discussion boards and completing weekly assignments are key components to success in this course.
Class Cancellation Policy:
If any classes have to be canceled, tests will be rescheduled for the next class period; assignments will be
collected during the next class period. College Weather Number: 443-412-2322
Syllabus Modification:
The instructor reserves the right to modify and/or change the course syllabus with reasonable
notification to students.
Grading Standards:
The final course grade is comprised of the student’s mastery of course requirements. Course grades are based
upon the following total mastery level:
A = 91-100%
B = 81-90%
C = 71-80%
D = 61-70%
F = 60%
Application Skills Assignments
Homework Projects/Assignments
Quizzes
Midterm Exam
Semester Project
Final Exam
= 16.7%
= 16.7%
= 16.7%
= 16.7%
= 16.7%
= 16.7%
Class Preparation:
All of the reading assignments must be completed before the material is to be discussed. Additional handouts
will be distributed regarding lab assignments at the appropriate time. It is very important to read the
application software assignments before beginning the hands-on work.
Student Behavior:
Students must comply with the standards of conduct as stipulated in the Student Handbook. Students must
arrive on time for class, participate in class activities, and exhibit courteous behavior towards all other
persons.
Disability Support Services:
HCC is committed to serving students who have documented physical, learning, psychological, or
other disabilities. Students who have a disability are responsible for contacting Disability Support
Services at 443-412-2402 to discuss their needs and establish eligibility for services and reasonable
accommodations. Because accommodations can take time to implement, if you have not already
contacted DSS you should do so immediately. All information shared with Disability Support is kept
in accordance with relevant state and federal laws.
3
Academic Dishonesty:
Students will be familiar with and adhere to the policy governing academic dishonesty and its
sanctions as outlined in the Code for Student Rights, Responsibilities and Conduct, which can be found
on OwlNet under the My Academic Life Tab or in the HCC online catalog. For example, the sharing
of computer files enabling a student to represent work done by another as his or her own will be
considered academic dishonesty for all users of the shared file.
Student Conduct
Students will be familiar with and adhere to the “Code for Student Rights, Responsibilities and Conduct”,
which can be found on OwlNet under the My Academic Life Tab or in the HCC online catalog. The Code
outlines prohibited conduct, the disciplinary process, and possible sanctions. Students found responsible for
violating the Code will have a disciplinary record that will remain in the Office of the Associate Vice
President for Student Development for three years.
Computer Ethics:
Each student is responsible for knowing the college's policy relating to ethical behavior regarding all
intellectual property and in using the computer. Copying or using another’s work, including computer files, is
both illegal and unethical. See the Student Handbook.
Federal Credit Hour Definition Statement:
For a 15 week semester, each credit hour represents one hour of classroom or direct faculty instruction and
a minimum of two hours of outside class-work per week. For terms that are less than 15 weeks, students
should also spend a minimum of two hours outside of class for every hour in class. Academic activities
include, but are not limited to reading, writing, studying, research, and completing worksheets. In addition, at
least an equivalent amount of out of class work is required for laboratory work, internships, practica, studio
work, etc.
At Harford Community College, for all credit courses, students are expected to spend a minimum of 37.5
combined hours of direct instructional time and related coursework time per credit hour. This course is a
Three credit course. This course achieves the minimum of 112.5 hours of combined instructional time by
requiring 40 hours of direct instructional time and 72.5 hours of student work outside of direct instructional
time.
Course Requirements:
Regular Online Attendance
Periodic Quizzes
Class & Homework Assignments
Final Exam
Application Skills Projects:
MS Office 2010: Word
MS Office 2010: Excel
MS Office 2010: PowerPoint
MS Office 2010: Access
Internet
Application Skills Assignments
Midterm Exam
Semester long Computer Purchase Project
4
Make-Up Policy: Please Read Carefully!
 Midterm and Final Exams: There will be no make-up exams except through arrangement with the
instructor prior to the exam (and then only for reasons deemed valid enough to require the making-up
of a new exam, which may be more difficult.)
 Quizzes: Quizzes will be given throughout the semester. There will be no make-ups given for any
reason. However, the lowest quiz grade will be dropped in this category, only.
Application Software Assignments:
All of the reading assignments must be completed before the class in which the material is to be discussed.
Additional handouts will be distributed regarding application assignments at the appropriate time. It is very
important to read the assignments before doing any assignment on the computer.
Class Projects and Assignments:
All of the reading assignments must be completed before the class in which the material is to be discussed.
Assignments will be given to review the text reading; class projects will be provided to apply the concepts
from the assigned reading.
Homework Projects, Challenge Assignments and Presentations:
Four challenge assignments will be assigned during the semester. Further information regarding these projects
is listed below in the Challenge Assignment section. Group work will be conducted in class. Students may be
called to make short presentations based on these projects.
Due Dates:
To receive full credit, all assignments must be handed in by the due date. An assignment will be accepted up
to one week late and points will be deducted at the rate of 5 points per class meeting. No assignment will be
accepted after that. It is the student's responsibility to justify any absences and make up all assignments.
5
Course Content
Concepts Skills Sessions: Reading assignments refer to Technology in Action 10th edition
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
Introduction / Course Objectives
Using Technology to Change the World (Chapter 1)
Looking at Computers (Chapter 2)
Using the Internet (Chapter 3)
Application Software (Chapter 4)
System Software (Chapter 5)
Assessing Hardware (Chapter 6)
Networking (Chapter 7)
Digital Devices and Media: Managing a Digital Lifestyle (Chapter 8)
Securing your System (Chapter 9)
Application Skills Content
Application Skills Sessions: Reading Assignments refer to Skills for Success with Microsoft Office
2010, 2nd edition.
I.
II.
III.
IV
Skills for Success With Microsoft Office 2010
Skills for Success With Microsoft Office 2010
Skills for Success With Microsoft Office 2010
Skills for Success With Microsoft Office 2010
Word
Excel
PowerPoint
Access
Chapters 1-4
Chapters 1-4
Chapters 1-4
Chapter 1
Internet Assignments
A. Using a web browser
B. The use of MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Internet in the presentation of Internet research.
6
CIS 102 Class / Reading Schedule
Technology in Action 10th edition
Week Of
Topic
Chapter
1
Course Introduction / Course Objectives
2
Using Technology to Change the World................ 1: pp 2-27
3
Looking at Computers ............................................ 2: pp 28-73
4
Using the Internet ................................................... 3: pp. 74-123
5
Application Software .............................................. 4: pp. 124-161
6
System Software ..................................................... 5: pp. 162-225
7
Mid Term Exam
8
Understanding & Assessing Hardware .................. 6: pp. 226-261
9
Networking Connecting Computer Devices .......... 7: pp.262-315
10
Digital Devices and Media ..................................... 8: pp. 316-355
11
Securing your System ............................................. 9: pp. 356-419
12
Semester Project Presentations Due
13
No classes
14
Review for Final Exam.
15
Final Exam
Graded assignment retention:
All graded and returned assignments must be retained by class members for the duration of the
semester and may be required to confirm assignment completion. It is also recommended that completed
files used to produce same be retained.
Student Services may be accessed in two ways:
 Through OwlNet, click on the My Academic Life Tab main page , top right under Quick Links - right
under “Ask for Assistance” then Click on Link : Student Services Hours & Locations
 Using your browser enter the URL:
http://www.harford.edu/studentservices/docs/Student_Services.pdf
A note on Quiz and Exam content:
Quizzes and Exams will follow the reading assignments, additional material may be presented in class
to augment the information provided in the text. This additional material may be included in the
7
appropriate quiz or exam. The Mid-Term and Final Examinations will test on all information covered
in both the concepts and applications material assigned up to the test date.
CIS 102 Application Skills Schedule
The assignments consist of two parts: the Class Assignments and the Homework Assignments. All
Due Dates Will Be Announced In Class.
I. Class Assignments: These assignments will be given to you by the instructor. All Of The Class
Application Assignments, Must Be Completed During On Time.
Word Processing Sessions
Do assigned exercises in Word Chapters 1-4 in Skills for Success With Microsoft Office 2010
Spreadsheets Sessions
Do assigned exercises in Excel Chapters 1-4 in Skills for Success With Microsoft Office 2010
PowerPoint Sessions
Do assigned exercises in PowerPoint Chapters 1-4 in Skills for Success With Microsoft Office 2010
Access Sessions
Do assigned exercises in Access Chapter 1 in Skills for Success With Microsoft Office 2010
Internet Lab Session – assignment announced in class
8
Challenge/Homework Assignments
The Challenge/Homework Assignments, some will be optional, those that are required will be
announced in class. These assignments may be done during the class computer sessions after the
above assignments are completed, according to the schedule. Each person must work alone and
independently on these assignments. Be sure to save your work on your Flash Drive. The purpose of
these assignments is for the student to exhibit basic skills in using the computer and the software.
It is essential that each student complete these assignments independently and ethically.
Although it may be easy to copy assignments when using a computer, plagiarism remains
unacceptable and results in a grade of zero. Please consult the student handbook for further
information on the college's policy.
1.
Challenge Assignment #1 - Word Processing: Due date will be announced in class.
Write a summary/reaction paper on one article from a magazine, journal or newspaper dated
after August 1, 2013. Choose an article relating to the computing industry that is of interest to
you. You must produce your summary/reaction paper using a word processor. Your report is
to be a minimum of two pages long. One page should be the summary and one page should be
your reaction. Include a cover sheet stating your topic, due date, your name and your section
number. Attach a photocopy of the article you have reviewed for your report. Cite your
references at the beginning of your report, according to this format: Author's Last Name,
Author's First Name. "Article's name in quotes", Magazine Title underlined, (Publication date
in parenthesis), page numbers. Be sure to save your report on your floppy disk. More
information will be provided in class. Articles must be turned in by the assigned due dates.
Five points per week will be deducted for late papers.
2.
Challenge Assignment #2 – Hardware Evaluation Assignment - Due date to be announced
in class. The use of Excel and PowerPoint in an assignment regarding the purchase of a
computer system.
3.
Challenge Assignment #3 – Internet/Excel/Word/Graphics: Due date to be announced in
class. The use of MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Internet in the presentation of Internet
research.
9
CIS-102 Semester
Computer Purchase Project
The Situation:
You are a member of a civic or non -profit organization, club, sports team, or an employee of a company. You
have been assigned the task of assessing the organization’s computer needs and recommending a solution.
Your proposal will be evaluated by your organization on the basis of:
 Complete and thoughtful definition of the needs for a computer. The tasks that must be performed.
 Your recommendations for application software that will perform the tasks required and why.
 Your recommendations for a complete computer system that will support your recommended
application(s) and why.
 A detailed listing of the software system requirements (operating system and application) compared to
the systems you are recommending.
The Research:
1. Decide what organization you are affiliated with and define their computer needs.
2. Visit several stores that sell software, make note of the tasks the software you propose can do and its
hardware requirements. Obtain the name of the sales person you talk to and obtain a business card if
possible.
3. Visit several stores that sell computers. (May be the same ones) Obtain specifications and prices for the
systems you propose to meet your defined task. Locate three suitable systems and rank them in your
proposal as first, second and third choice.
The Proposal:
Write a proposal to the leader or governing body of your organization, clearly defining:
 What tasks you propose to computerize and why.
 What software you propose to use and why.
 Provide a choice of 3 systems that meet the needs of the software.
 Remember to include and recommend peripherals such as printers, scanners or digital cameras if
required for your organization’s task.
 Clearly identify the complete cost of each alternative.
The Evaluation:
Your proposal, and your presentation of it, will be evaluated upon its ability to clearly define the need,
and solution you suggest. The data you collect should be presented in a clear form allowing for easy
comparison. Your ability to use Microsoft Office Applications such as Word, Excel and PowerPoint to enhance
your proposal will have an impact on the professional appearance of your proposal and its acceptance. To the
extent that you can justify your expenditure by proving it to be a cost effective solution to a real need will
determine the grade of the exercise.
This Project will be graded as follows:
Research ......................................... 40%
Written Materials ............................. 40%
Oral Presentation ............................ 20%
Depending on Class size, oral presentations may extend over more than one class session. All projects are due
on the first day. Volunteers will present first followed by a random draw of remaining names until all
presentations are complete. Absence when your name is drawn, without prior instructor approval, will result in a
late penalty.
10