COURSE DESCRIPTION

Applications of computerized systems in business organizations. Basic concepts of computer organization, data processing systems, decision support systems and systems analysis. The lab portion of the class consists of hands-on problem solving using software applications including spreadsheets and databases.

This course is articulated with SDSU IDS 180 and covers material similar to the content in that course.

This is a 4 unit class structured as 3 units lecture and 3 units lab which totals 96 hours.

COURSE OBJECTIVES (Expected Student Learning Outcomes)

1. Describe the differences between various types of information systems, and explain the importance of determining information system requirements for all management levels.
2. Use the system development life cycle to describe how information systems are used to solve business problems.
3. Describe and provide examples of how the computer revolution has affected the way business is conducted in the modern era.
4. Investigate and apply effective hardware and software techniques for solving information system problems.
5. Describe the components and functions of computer systems, including both hardware and software.
6. Describe the advances in networking, data communications, and the Internet, and explain how they affect the way business is conducted.
7. Identify and use information technology tools to solve various business problems.
8. Use modern productivity tools (i.e. spreadsheet, database) or custom programs to solve business problems.
9. Describe the ethical and social implications of using information technology within the context of the information systems industry.

View Course Requirements - (Student Responsibilities, Assignments, Grading)

Required Text & Materials - (available in the college bookstore )

• View Required Book and Training Software Information
• CAUTION: Book store policy will not allow returns if book bundles are opened!

Software

If you are using a computer from an off-campus location you will need the following software installed on your system.

• Operating System
  Windows XP or Windows Vista or Windows 7 (recommended)
  CIS students can download a free copy of Windows 7 from the MSDNAA program.
  Mac Users
  Mac computers have conditional support in this class. Read details here.
   
• Applications Software
  Microsoft Access 2010 & Microsoft Excel 2010
  See details on obtaining free and discounted Office 2010 software
  View the acceptable versions of Office 2010 for this class.
  

Tutoring & Training

• Video demos are provided for the difficult application topics. They are available via the links in the Excel and Access assignment pages. If you need additional tutoring then please contact me. I provide support for this class by providing online video demos and scheduled personal tutoring on campus.
• Myitlab software provides tutoring and additional training in application skills needed to be successful in this class. The software is included in new book bundles. If you purchase a used book bundle then you can purchase a copy directly from the publisher via the link on the books page.

Other Requirements

• Storage to backup your work such as a USB Pen Drive 1GB or larger
  (about $5 - requires a USB port)
• Reliable computer
• Reliable Internet connection
• Email account where you regularly check for mail
• A backup plan to use when you have a problem with your system
• See the additional requirements for online students listed in the orientation

The legal stuff
This course adheres to the policies outlined in the Cuyamaca College catalog.
For further information, see the Academic Policies stated in the catalog.

 Updated 07/12/11