Authorised by Academic Registrar, April 1996
Objectives On completion of this subject students should be able to understand the basic concepts and terminology associated with information systems, data processing and data communications; explain the principles of operation of a microcomputer and associated peripheral devices; be able to operate a microcomputer; and be able to apply a range of microcomputer application packages.
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: 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. The practical study materials presented will be based on an IBM-compatible PC running particular classes of software. Students can use other PCs and other similar classes of software, provided they meet the requirements of the assignments. Two hours of lectures and 2 hours of tutorials at each weekend school will be supplemented with study guides and tutorial guides.
Assessment Assignments: 30% + Examination (3 hours): 70%