PORTERVILLE COLLEGE
INSTRUCTOR
OFFICE
James Carson
CT - 1319
PHONE
E-MAIL
791-2369 jcarson@pc.cc.ca.us
COURSE WEB PAGE: www.portervillecollege.edu/jcarson OFFICE HRS: See web page
PREREQUISITES
Recommended: Eligible for level 2 English placement, Math 55
REQUIRED TEXTS/SOFTWARE
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COURSE
DESCRIPTION
This course will provide students with fundamental concepts and hands-on experience of information systems in today's business environment. They will develop an understanding of the evolution of computing, principles of information systems, and methodology of software design and development. Research and classroom discussion will challenge students to go beyond a mere knowledge of computer technology and skills, and to grapple with those issues and ideas relating to the greater role of information systems within business organizations. Lab projects in microcomputer operating systems, end-user productivity tools, and structured programming will be assigned to facilitate the learning of problemsolving methods and techniques. Not open to students with credit in Computer Science/Information Systems 30.
(A/CSU/UC)
GRADING
Grades will be determined as a percentage of total points.
90-100%
80-89%
A
B
60-69% D
59% and below F
70-79%
COURSE POLICIES
C
1.
You should plan on an average of 4 to 6 hours per week for reading, homework, and lab assignments outside of class.
You are expected to complete all reading assignments before class starts. Arriving late or leaving class early should be avoided. Students who miss 4 or more classes may be dropped by the instructor.
2.
All assignments are due at the beginning of the class on the due dates. Late assignments will not be accepted and a grade of zero will be assigned for the missing work. Being absent is not an excuse for late work.
3.
Much of this class will require students to work online. While it is not required that students have the Internet at home, it will make life much easier. Students are welcome to use the computer labs on campus, but should plan for busy periods where it may be difficult to get on a computer.
4.
Exams and quizzes will cover all materials assigned for reading as well as those presented or discussed in class and must be taken during scheduled class sessions. No make-up test will be given without prior consent of the instructor .
5.
You are responsible for the learning of the software and the completion of each assignment. Lab instructors are present in the library to assist you with your homework. I am also available during my office hours or by scheduled appointment.
6.
All students in my classes are presumed honest. Proof to the contrary (i.e., cheating or plagiarism) will result in a grade of zero for the work involved and possible failure of the course.
Reasonable accommodations for students with disabilities: If you have a disability that may require assistance or accommodation, or you have questions related to any accommodation for testing, note takers, readers, etc., please speak with the instructor as soon as possible. Students may also contact the Disability Resource Center (559-791-
2215) with questions about such services.

STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOMES
Student Learning Outcomes
1 Identify the components of a computer and discuss their respective functions
Context and Tasks to Achieve
Outcomes
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Read assigned text chapters
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Participate in classroom discussion
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Engage in the exploration of a PC
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Explore a home or work computer
Evidence of Success
Ability to examine a personal computer and categorize all major components associated with input, process, output, storage, and communications devices
Satisfactory completion of homework assignments using proper computer terminology
Satisfactory completion of quizzes and tests
2 Identify the components of a computer-based information system
(CBIS) and differentiate among various types of such systems
3 Demonstrate an understanding of data communications and networking
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Read assigned text chapters
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Participate in classroom discussion
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Examination of a real-life information system used by banks, schools, retail stores, or government agencies.
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Read assigned text chapters
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Participate in classroom discussion
4 Discuss the development and the impact of the Internet and the World
Wide Web
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Read assigned text chapters
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Participate in classroom discussion
Ability to recognize and examine a real-life information system and its components
Satisfactory completion of homework assignments with a clear understanding of the CBIS concepts
Satisfactory completion of quizzes and tests
Ability to define communications and network devices and how they are used
Satisfactory completion of quizzes and tests
Satisfactory completion of homework assignments
Satisfactory completion of quizzes and tests
5 Exhibit proficiency in using microcomputer operating systems, end-user productivity software, and
Web-based tools
6 Demonstrate an understanding of the systems development process
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Read assigned text chapters
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Participate in classroom discussion
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Engage in hands-on exercises
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Complete hands-on lab projects
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Complete fun projects
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Read assigned text chapters
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Participate in classroom discussion
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Engage in hands-on exercises
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Complete hands-on lab projects
7 Evaluate and recommend microcomputer hardware and software to meet personal and organizational needs
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Read assigned text chapters
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Participate in classroom discussion
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Complete a research paper on selecting and buying a computer
8 Examine the issues involved in the use of information systems to achieve competitive advantages
9 Discuss social, ethical, and privacy issues involved in the use of information systems
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Read assigned text chapters
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Participate in classroom discussion
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Read assigned text chapters
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Participate in classroom discussion
Ability to use PC and Web-based tools such as
Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint, and e-mail to complete homework assignments satisfactorily
Satisfactory completion of quizzes and tests
Satisfactory completion of homework assignments
Satisfactory completion of quizzes and tests
Ability to conduct independent research and construct a coherent analytical paper.
Satisfactory completion of homework assignments
Satisfactory completion of quizzes and tests
Satisfactory completion of homework assignments
Satisfactory completion of quizzes and tests
Satisfactory completion of homework assignments
Satisfactory completion of quizzes and tests