Authorised by Academic Registrar, April 1996
Objectives On completion of this subject students should understand the basic concepts and terminology associated with the technology of computer-based information systems; understand the ways in which computer-based information systems support business operations; understand the fundamentals of information systems development; and be able to model a range of business problems using spreadsheet and database packages on a microcomputer.
Synopsis Two parallel streams of study consider general principles and concepts of computers and application of business software packages. General stream : computer use in business and society; types of computers and applications; business information systems development; trends and social issues; data communication and networks; internal organisation and functions; the processor, input, output and storage devices; the capture, entry, processing, storage, manipulation and presentation of data. Applications stream: understanding and learning to use a PC; the following classes of common business software packages: operating system - basic structure and capabilities, management of files, application of basic commands; word processing - basic principles and operation, entry and edit, correction procedures, enhancement features and printing options; spreadsheets - concept and structure, basic rules, commands and functions, principles of use in business; database management systems - concept and structure, design guidelines, basic rules and commands. Students must have access to a microcomputer. Students on campus attend 2 hours of lectures and 2 hours of tutorials per week. Distance education weekend schools comprise 2 hours of lectures and 2 hours of tutorials.
Assessment Assignments: 20% + Examination: 80%