MONTGOMERY COLLEGE

COSC/ITSC 1401 Introduction to Computers

Catalog Description

Overview of computer information systems. Introduces computer hardware, software, procedures, and human resources. Explores integration and application in business and other segments in society. Fundamentals of computer problem-solving and programming may be discussed and applied. Examines applications and software relating to a specific curricular area.

This course is listed under two heading COSC 1401 and ITSC 1401. COSC 1401 is recommended for computer science transfer students because it is transferable to all Texas state-supported institutions. ITSC 1401 is only transferable to Sam Houston State University, University of Houston Downtown, University of Houston, Prairie View A & M, and Texas Southern University. Students may direct any questions about this matter to the BASS Division office.

Credit: 4 Semester Credit Hours (3 hours lecture and 2 hours lab per week)

Prerequisite

There is no prerequisite for this course; however, basic keyboarding, math, reading, and writing skills are essential.

Purpose

The purpose of this course is to introduce students to terminology and concepts related to the basic operations of computers, as well as the creation and maintenance of documents and web pages using the Windows operating system, word processing software, spreadsheet software, database software, presentation graphics software, and HTML.

Course Outcomes

Identify the components of a computer system.

Demonstrate basic understanding of commonly used applications.

Explain the impact of computers on society.

Explore computer careers.

Identify fundamental programming structures.

Demonstrate proficiency in basic operating system functions.

Discuss current issues associated with security, ethics, and legal issues.

Describe the uses of the Internet and design a simplistic web page using HTML coding.

Demonstrate proficiency in the use of word processing, spreadsheet, database, and presentation applications.

Demonstrate proficiency in the use of email.

Discuss current issues such as viruses and other related topics.

Demonstrate basic understanding of network topology and connections.

Required Materials

Textbooks:

Discovering Computers Fundamentals Edition, Shelly Cashman Series, Course Technology. 2004

OFFICE 2003 Introductory Concepts and Techniques, Shelly Cashman Series, Prentice-Hall, Inc. 2003

Hardware/Software (All hardware & software are available for use in the Extended Learning Center.):

Personal Computer with an internet connection

Microsoft Office 2003 Professional (version 2003 of Word, Excel, Access, and PowerPoint)

Storage Media (depending on the storage devices available on the classroom computers and the computers used outside of class by the student):

Six 3.5” HD Diskettes, or

One Zip Disk (250 MB or greater), or

One CD-RW

Instructional Procedures and Technologies

During the semester, the instructor will utilize various instructional procedures and technological tools to enhance student learning. The classroom is to be considered a learning environment in which students interact with the instructor, with each other, and with various learning tools, such as the textbook and the computer. The following is a list of instructional procedures and technologies the student can expect to experience in this course.

Lectures

Group Discussions and Activities

Internet Activities

Online Training and Assessment

E-mail and Online Discussions

Team Projects