COSC 1401

Introduction to Computers and Information Sciences

Online Course Information

1. TO GET STARTED:

2. • The student is required to go to http://spc.blackboard.com and enter the WebCT ID and Password as described on the Login Page.  The student should read the Course Syllabus and the Course Prerequisites (this document) for comprehension.
      
   • The student is required to take the Course Pretest after reading the Course Syllabus and Course Prerequisites. Successful completion of the Course Pretest will verify that the student has the minimum technology skills as stated later in this document and in the Course Syllabus.  The Course Pretest will also verify that the student also has access to a computer with the minimum system requirements as stated later in this document.

   • Students will receive instructions on how to get started with the course by the third class day of the semester conditional upon successful completion of the Course Pretest.

   PREREQUISITES:
    
   • A willingness to think.
      
   • Technology Prerequisites:
     Students in Introduction to Computer Science online classes must have at least a minimum set of Information Technology-based communication skills. At a minimum these include:
      
     • Knowledge of the Internet and World Wide Web.
     • Knowledge of saving files for later use.
     • Knowledge of e-mail, including attachments
        
   • If you lack any of these minimum skills you should register for a course that meets on one of the South Plains College campuses.
      
3. SUPPLIES:
    
   • Students must have access to a personal computer with these minimum system requirements:

   • Microsoft® Windows® XP or VISTA
   • 2 GBavailable hard drive space
   • 512 MB RAM or higher
   • 500 MHz or higher processor
   • Microsoft Office 2007 – Professional (including Word 2007, Excel 2007, Access 2007, PowerPoint 2007)
   • VGA monitor with 1024x768 or higher resolution
   • Compatible keyboard and Mouse
   • Browser – Internet Explorer is needed to access web links that will support WebCT

   • Textbook: The link to the publisher's resource site is: here

   

This textbook must be purchased from the SPC - Levelland bookstore.

• Online Textbook purchase - The link to the SPC Bookstore is: here

• Phone Orders - The following information is necessary for you to order by phone:

•     SPC - Levelland Bookstore Phone Number: 806-894-9611 ext. 2397

•     Contact Person: Kit Kraus

•     Course Number: COSC1401

•     Name of Book: MICROSOFT OFFICE 2007, Volume I, Grauer -
        Bundled at SPC Levelland and Reese Bookstores (Look for COSC1401)

•     Payment method: Credit Card (go to bookstore for other payment methods)

•     Provide a physical street address + zip code for book to be delivered

4. COURSE OBJECTIVES:

• This course is an overview of computer information systems. It introduces computer hardware, software, procedures, systems, and human resources. It explores their integration and application in business and other segments in society. The fundamentals of computer problem-solving and programming in a higher level programming language may be discussed and applied. Business applications will be stressed. Software projects include using word processing, spreadsheet, database management, and presentation graphics software.

• This course will guide students through the basic skills and procedures of online courses.

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