Course Description

This course is designed to give a broad-based introduction to all aspects of computing. Students will focus on core aspects of the discipline including hardware, networking, the Internet, programming logic, ethics, and the history and future of the industry. The goal of this course is to give students a working knowledge of the computer industry and provide a solid foundation of knowledge to begin technical training.

Essential Objectives

• Discuss computer history and driving forces of change in the computer industry.
• Identify governing agencies for software engineering and the top-level standards for the profession.
• Describe the use of system software and application software.
• Explain and identify types of networks and the Internet.
• Define the role of databases in e-commerce.
• Discuss issues surrounding computer and data security.
• Compare computer hardware architecture (Von Neumann vs. Harvard distinction) including RAM, CPU, storage, and busses.
• Demonstrate application of algorithms, binary and hexadecimal notation, and their use in computer systems.
• Demonstrate the use of primitive data types, and how they are represented at the machine level including, but not limited to, Boolean logic, concepts and circuits.
• Explain the concepts of object-oriented design and programming logic including conditional logic, function and subroutine use, repetitive logic, variables, lists, and arrays.
• Compose a basic program in a high-level language (e.g., Python).
• Demonstrate an understanding of using technology to provide accessibility.
• Identify and investigate the scope and diversity of career opportunities in the field of information technology.

Material

Computer Science An Overview by Brookshear, Glenn; Brylow, Dennis(Edition: 12th)
ISBN: 9780133760064

Grading Strategy

Quizzes (80%)

There will be a quiz for each chapter covered (Chapter 01 -10).   A quiz will consist of 10 multiple choice and True/False questions. You will be able to use your book when taking a quiz. You will be able to take a quiz two times with the average grade being used. The quiz questions are generated from a pool of questions, so you may not get the same questions in the second attempt. The goal of the quiz is to build your knowledge. 

The final two chapters (Chapter 11 and Chapter 12) are bonus chapters.  They consist of 10 multiple choice and True/False questions.  You will be able to use your book when taking a quiz. You will be able to take a quiz three times with the highest grade being used. The quiz questions are generated from a pool of questions, so you may not get the same questions in the second attempt.  The bonus chapters are optional.  They may be used as a replacement for a missed or poor quiz.  The replacement happens automatically.

Programming Assignment (20%)

The programming assignments use the following languages: Turtle and Python. The programming assignment will allow you to show a basic understanding of numerous programming constructs. You will be submitting a screenshot of your results for each assignment.

Attendance Policy

Attendance is based on the completion of the weekly quiz or programming assignment.  Late work is accepted with a penalty.