This course serves as an introduction to computer terminology, computer equipment, and provides fundamental concepts for using PC-based software. Topics covered include computer hardware and its operation, operating systems and application software, networks and computer communications, the Internet and the World Wide Web, and programming. The impact of computers on our lives is explored.
Textbook:
Capron and Johnson, Computers: Tools for an Information Age,
7th ed, Prentice Hall, 2001.
Course Objectives:
1. Use and define the vocabulary associated with computer technology.
2. Identify the components of computer systems and state their function.
3. Differentiate between the various operating systems and application programs that are available for personal computers.
4. Understand the relationship between computer hardware and software.
5. Identify computer tools that may be applied to assist with various common applications.
6. Provide an introduction to computer communications and the Internet.
7. Build a foundation for future course work in Information Technology, Business, and/or Computer Science.
Course content:
(Refer to Course Documents for slides and lecture notes)
Module 1 – Computers: Tools for an Information Age
Module 2 – Operating Systems – Software in the Background
Module 3 – Computer Software: Application Software
Module 4 – The Central Processing Unit: What Goes on Inside the Computer
Module 5 – Input and Output: The User Connection
Module 6 – Storage and Multimedia: The Facts and More
Module 7 – Networking: Computer Connections
Module 8 – The Internet: A Resource for All of Us
Module 9 - Programming and Languages: Telling the Computers What to Do
Quizzes:
There will be quizzes, each worth 30 points, given at the end of each module. Refer to Assignments.
Streaming Video:
Several video presentations which will broaden your horizons on computer uses. Refer to Course Documents.
Take a Break:
This page will help you to relax when you get tired. Refer to Course Documents.
Discussions and Questions:
Refer to Communication. There are several Discussion Groups for asking questions, sharing information and discussions.
External Links:
This page contains links to extra information related to the subject of Computing as well as the link to the School of Computer Engineering, NTU.