COMSC 040 - Introduction to Computers
Student Orientation Sheet

Jeff Frates                                                                    Don McKnight

(925) 439-2181 ext. 3354                                  (925) 439-2181 ext. 3386

jfrates@losmedanos.edu                                 dmcknight@losmedanos.edu

Karen Stanton
(925) 439-2181 ext. 3307
kstanton@losmedanos.edu

To learn more about the course, click on a link below:

Course Materials

Course Description

Course Objectives

Course Requirements

Grading Policy

Course Materials

1. Computer Concepts 10th edition (Comprehensive)
   Parsons and Oja
   ISBN: 1-4239-0610-1
   
   
2. Practical Office 2007
   Parsons and Oja
   ISBN: 1-4239-0604-7
   
   
3. (1) floppy diskette for your tracking data
   

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Course Description COMSC 040 - Introduction to Computers is a 4-unit full semester beginning online course designed to introduce students to basic microcomputer concepts and operating procedures. The course provides students with a broad survey of computer technology, including basic concepts, common vocabulary, primary applications, and elementary operating procedures. Students will also learn the basic principles of a variety of microcomputer systems such as word processing, database management, spread sheeting, presentation graphics and desktop information management. The Microsoft Office 2003 suite of applications will be covered.

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Course Objectives

Upon satisfactory completion of this course:

1. Students will be able to demonstrate basic understanding of microcomputer hardware
2. Students will be able to demonstrate basic computing operating procedures
3. Students will be able to demonstrate a basic proficiency in word processing, database management, and spread sheeting.

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Course Requirements

All work and communication will be done online. The work of the course consists of the following:

1. Laboratory assignments requiring you to follow directions, perform required operations, and produce accurate printouts.
2. Reading assignments from prescribed text.
3. Writing assignments called “Issues” and “Tech Talk” requiring an interpretation and analysis of material presented at the end of each chapter. A short essay or reaction to each Issue and Tech Talk question will be sent via e-mail.
4. There will be examinations given on each separate chapter of the text. They are called “Practice Exams” in Blackboard, but they count toward the final grade percentage. A final online examination will be given at the end of the course.
5. Submit a research paper.
6. Complete Programming assignments
7. Get hands-on experience using Microsoft Office.

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Grading Policy

Grades for the course will be based on a variety of different assessment methods including essay, final examination, multiple choice tests, and lab book exercises. Points will be given for all of the above:

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