Introduction to computers
K Styles
3 points * 2 hours per week * Gippsland: First/Second semester * Distance: First semester * Note: This subject is not available to computing students
On completion of the subject, students will have an understanding of the basic concepts and terminology associated with computers and information systems, a knowledge of the nature of programming languages and language compilers, the ability to design simple algorithms, and the ability to use word processing, spreadsheet and file management software on a microcomputer. The General section of the subject includes the computer's place in society, nature of computers, internal organisation and functions, input/output and storage devices, data representation; an overview of computer system software functions, operating systems, application software, elements of data communication, information systems development, programming languages, program development, algorithms, algorithm design. Using an IBM-PC, the Applications section of the subject covers the hardware, DOS, diskettes and files, use of a word processing package, use of an industry standard spreadsheet package, spreadsheet applications, database management applications, use of an industry standard information management package. Students on campus attend one 1-hour lecture and one 1-hour tutorial per week. Distance students attend one 2-hour lecture and one 2-hour practical tutorial at each vacation school. Students must have access to a microcomputer.
Assessment
Assignments: 20% * Examinations: 80%
Prescribed texts
To be advised