Chabot College
Course Outline for Computer Science 8
COMPUTER LITERACY
(See also Computer Application Systems 8)
Fall 2004
Replaced Fall 2010
Catalog Description:
8 - Computer Literacy
3 units
Introduction to computers including: Microsoft Windows, Microsoft Office, Multimedia, the internet,
browsers, World Wide Web, an awareness of types of computer software in use including
programming languages, electronic mail, computer-based careers and trends, and other computing
issues in today’s society. No prior computer experience necessary. Course recommended for
students of any major who want to learn about computers and how to use them. Hands-on laboratory
experience reinforces lecture. Strongly recommended: eligibility for Mathematics 65 or Mathematics
65A (May not receive credit if Computer Application Systems 8 has been completed.) 2 hours
lecture, 2 hours laboratory.
[Typical contact hours: lecture 35, laboratory 35]
Prerequisite Skills:
None
Expected Outcomes for Students:
Upon completion of the course the student should be able to:
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identify the various parts of a computer system and what each does;
identify major software applications packages and what they do;
describe common features of the MS Windows operating system;
create and organize files and folders using Windows Explore and My Computer;
formulate and create a simple business document such as a letter, memo, and flyer using Word;
formulate and create a simple Excel spreadsheet and chart;
create a simple database file using Access;
create a slide presentation using PowerPoint;
describe what capabilities Internet has, what a browser does, and be able to perform basic
navigation over the worldwide web;
perform basic email tasks such as sending, receiving, and managing electronic mail;
describe what programming languages can do;
describe various current computer-based careers;
identify and discuss current ethical and security issues affecting the worldwide web and software
piracy.
Course Content:
1. Computer systems
a. Hardware components of a personal computer system: monitor, keyboard, storage devices,
modems, memory, printers, other input/output devices
b. Parts of a computer network
c. Use and care of storage devices
2. Software: an introduction
a. Components and functions of MS Office software
b. Functions digital media software
c. Types and functions of programming languages
d. Other types of software: sound, Web Page Construction, Accounting, etc.
3. Microsoft Windows
a. Window management: opening, closing, minimizing, maximizing, resizing, rearranging and
scrolling
b. Use of the mouse
c. Logging in, shutting down, use of the Start button, and the Windows taskbar
Chabot College
Course Outline for Computer Science 8, Page 2
Fall 2004
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d. Use of Explore and My Computer to create directories and delete, rename and move files
and directories
e. Common features of Windows software: File, Edit, Window, Help menus
Microsoft Office:
a. Use Word to enter, edit, format, save and restore and print documents
b. Be able to use Word proficiently enough to write letters and short papers
c. Use Excel to enter, edit, format, save and restore and print spreadsheets
d. Use Excel proficiently enough to create simple spreadsheets such as for a budget
e. Use Access to enter, edit, format, save and restore and print a simple database document
f. Use Access proficiently enough to create a simple database, such as a phone directory
The Internet and the World Wide Web
a. What is the Internet?
b. What is the World Wide Web?
c. Browsers: Netscape and Internet Explorer
d. Internet addresses
e. Use of search engines
f. Use of the Internet for on-line purchasing, on-line courses, research
Sending, receiving, and managing electronic mail
Computer-based careers including:
Program development, testing and maintenance
Computer engineer
Applications expert
Help desk
Sales
Network and system administration
Webmaster
Technical writer
Hardware maintenance and operations
Computers in the workplace
a. Business office animation trends and impact
b. Multimedia
c. Use in education
d. Use in the arts and sciences
Ethical and security issues
a. Copyrights and software piracy
b. Viruses and virus protection
c. Passwords
Methods of Presentation:
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Lecture
Classroom discussion
Demonstrations
Hands-on exercises in the laboratory
Guest speakers
Assignments and Methods of Evaluating Student Progress:
1. Typical Assignments
a. Work through a hands-on tutorial to create business documents
b. Complete a concepts review, including short answer questions on computer hardware and
software.
c. Complete critical thinking exercises from the textbook
d. Use the Internet to research a computer-related topic
e. Create interactive lab assignments such as installing software using a simulated CD
f. Use Email to upload business documents
Chabot College
Course Outline for Computer Science 8, Page 3
Fall 2004
2. Methods of Evaluating Student Progress
a. Written work
b. Hands-on exercises
c. Quizzes and final examination
d. Research project
Textbook(s) (Typical):
1. Computer Concepts, 4th Edition, Parsons and Oja, Course Technology, 2002
2. Microsoft Office XP Essential Concepts and Techniques, Shelley, Cashman and Vermatt, Course
Technology, 2002
Special Student Materials:
Portable storage device
Revised Gaila Moore and Desmond Chun 10/2/03
Effective F04
Revised 2/26/04