Monday 17 October 2011

Information System: End-User Computing


TITLE OF THE MODULE: End User Computing

MODULE CODE: IS-100
DEFINITION
End-User Computing is the effective use of information and communication technology in an end-user computer applications environment in different sectors of society.


PURPOSE OF THE MODULE
This module aims to emphasise the use of computers as integrated productivity tools.
It will:
Ø   Introduce end-user computing definitions and concepts to novice users
Ø  Introduce students to computer hardware, software and databases
Ø  Provide a practically-oriented environment in which to develop effective skills using standard application software as an integrated tool

STATEMENT OF SPECIFIC LEARNING OUTCOMES
On completion of this module, students will have a basic knowledge and awareness of
 Ø  Introductory end-user computing terminology
 Ø  Computer hardware and software
 Ø  Computer networks and data communications
 Ø  Computer security and backup
 Ø  Health and safety issues associated with using a computer

So that they can be able to:
 Ø   Develop confidence and competence in using of computers
 Ø   Develop thinking and reasoning in problem solving
 Ø   Define and use Information Technology (IT) terminology
 Ø   Describe how hardware and software is used
 Ø  Demonstrate their skills as knowledge workers through effective and efficient use of packaged software
 Ø  Send and receive information using the Internet and its related components
 Ø  Explain data communications and the role of networks
 Ø  Describe appropriate security and backup measures
 Ø  Describe some of the hazards associated with using a computer

MODULE MATERIALS
Prescribed Text
Ø  Munnelly, B. Holden, P. (2007). ICDL The Complete Course book for Microsoft Office 2007, Prentice Hall, England
Ø  A computer
Ø  Internet connection
You are strongly advised to purchase the prescribed text as the book forms the basis of all examinable course work, including practicals.

BLOGSPOT
Information such as notices, announcements and practical exercises, etc will continuously be placed on the learning space by the instructor of the module. You are encouraged to make use of this resource, and may be directed to it from time to time by your lecturers. The blogspot page can be accessed at http://mshokwane.blogspot.com/


STAFF
Staff is available for consultation during the hours displayed on their office doors. If, in exceptional circumstances, you wish to meet at a different time, please make an appointment through the emails. You are encouraged to use electronic mail (e-mail) to facilitate communication with your lecturers. The following staff members will be involved with the module:


Role
Name and E-Mail
Office
Function

Coordinator and Tutor

Mr Phendu Shenge


Admin Block 103

Deals with course coordination & module administration e.g. timetable clashes, missed tests etc.

Tutors
Ms Neli Sithole

Mr Bonga Buthelezi
Admin Block 255

Admin Block 230

Deals with student consultations & presents lectures, tutorials and practicals.




TYPES OF DELIVERY
Ø  Lectures
There are three lectures per week. Please see timetable posted on IS-100 notice board.

Ø Tutorials
You will be allocated to a tutorial session for the entire module duration (three months). Tutorial schedules will be posted on the IS-100 notice board.

Ø  Practical Sessions
Practical sessions are held in the computer laboratories to enable students to become familiar with using computers. You will be allocated to a practical session (three hours) per session. Practical schedules will be posted on http://mshokwane.blogspot.com

CONTENT
MODULE 1: Introduction to Computers
Ø  History of computers
Ø  Use of computers and types of computer systems
Ø  Parts of the computer
Ø  Understanding computers
Ø  Hardware and Software
Ø  Concept and navigation in the Windows environment
Ø  File management


MODULE 2: Introduction to Word processing
Ø  Microsoft Word Screen Elements
Ø  Moving and Selecting
Ø  Creating, Opening and Saving Files
Ø  Enhancing Text (Text Editing)

MODULE 3: Introduction to Spreadsheet
Ø  The Spreadsheet environment
Ø  Generalization of a spreadsheet using MS Excel
Ø  Calculating in Excel

MODULE 4: The Internet and E-mailing
Ø  Introduction to internet
Ø  Browsing and searching the web

ASSESSMENT
Your final mark will be made up of 50% continuous assessment and 50% written examination. The continuous assessment component is made up of four tests, namely two theory tets and two practical tests. Marks will be posted on the IS-100 notice board and on the module blogspot page. It is your responsibility as a student to check that your marks have been recorded correctly. Should be there any discrepancy of marks please reported to the module coordinator (Mr Phendu Shenge) within one week of the marks being released.

IMPORTANT DATES
It is advisable to diarise the following important dates:

Event
Date and Time
Test 1 (Theory)
15 October 2011
Test 2 (Practical)
31 October 2011
Test3 (Theory)
15 November 2011
Test 4 (Practical
30 November 2011
Examination
01 December 2011
                       
CHEATING / COPYING
Students are advised that aiding, attempting to aid, or attempting to solicit aid from another student for any test or examination may be considered as a serious offence. The penalty for such an offence could include exclusion from the College; refer to students’ rule book.