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 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; model a range of business problems using spreadsheet and database packages on a microcomputer.
Synopsis Two parallel streams of study consider (a) general principles and concepts of computers and (b) application of business software packages. In the general stream students will study 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. In the applications stream students will learn to understand and be able to use a PC and 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 two hours of lectures and two hours of tutorials per week. Distance education weekend schools comprise two hours of lectures and two hours of tutorials.
Assessment Assignments: 20% + Examination: 80%