WCTS130 - Course Description

WCTS 130: Introduction to Microcomputer Applications

College of Notre Dame of Maryland
Spring & Fall

COURSE DESCRIPTION

This class is intended for individuals who wish to learn how to effectively use Microsoft Windows XP [Operating System] and Microsoft Office XP [Office Suite]in a business environment. The class will consist of instructor-lead teaching, demonstration, and on-hands assignments covering topics such as computer basics, using a Windows operating system, word processing, spreadsheet, database management, presentation and graphics, statistical analysis, telecommunication applications, and web technologies.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

Participants will learn the basics of a computer system
Participants will gain insight into the operations of a menu-driven Windows operating system
Participants will gain knowledge on the fundamentals of using a word-processing application
Participants will gain knowledge on the fundamentals of using a spreadsheet application
Participants will gain knowledge on the fundamentals of using a database management system application
Participants will gain knowledge on the fundamentals of using a presentation/graphics application
Participants will gain basic knowledge on the fundamentals of using a statistical analysis application
Participants will gain knowledge in sending/receiving electronic communication and documents.
Participants will gain knowledge in the utilization of the Internet, World Wide Web, and other web technologies
Participants will study the principles and requirements for protection of data assets that are created and/or processed on microcomputers and the legal and ethical issues surrounding computer use
Participants will understand the process required using various computer applications as problem solving and decision-making tools

METHODS

The classes will be instructor-led. The instructor will discuss and show key points to demonstrate the use of each new application. The course will also consist of student discussions. Class participation is encouraged. Outside of the classroom, each student will be able to apply theory and/or concepts to computer assigned hands-on assignments. This combination of lecture, demonstration, discussion, and hands-on approach provides students with the knowledge, reference material, and experience to be productive from the moment they complete the course.

INSTRUCTOR

Ms. Delores J. Reaves	(410) 951-3853 (8:30a.m.-4:30p.m.)
Email: dreaves@coppin.edu (Work)	dreaves467@aol.com (Personal)

COMPUTER ASSIGNMENTS

All computer assignments are graded on a scale of 10. A form similar to the one provided on the first day of class is used to evaluate computer assignments. Each assignment must have the appropriate evaluation form attached. Points are earned (and can be lost) for (1) maintaining a properly organized disk, (2) carefully following the directions and completing the computer portion of the assignment and (3) answering the written response. One point will always be deducted if files are not stored in the appropriate folder. All assignments are to be submitted with attached Evaluation Sheet to instructor on or before due date. One (1) point will be deducted for lateness.

COURSE GRADING SCALE

Attendance/Punctuation	10%
Computer Assignments	40%
Final Computer Project	35%
Final Examination	15%
	100%

COLLEGE GRADING SCALE

A(92-100)

B+(87-91)

B(80-86)

C+(75-79)

C(70-74)

D(60-69)

F(<60)

EVALUATION SHEET GRADING SCALE

ASSIGNMENT	TITLE	DUE DATE
1	Operating System (Windows)	See Schedule
2	Using the Internet	See Schedule
3	Word Processing - MS Word	See Schedule
4	Spreadsheets - MS Excel	See Schedule
5	DBMS - MS Access	See Schedule
6	Electronic Presentations - MS PowerPoint	See Schedule
7	SPSS-Statistical Analysis [College SW]	See Schedule
8	Web Page Design - MS Front Page	See Schedule
9	Case Study	See Schedule
10	Integration of Microsoft Applications End-of-Class Project	See Schedule

Revised: 01/21/2003