New Course Proposal - CMPT 149/TECH 149 Introduction to Computer Systems

Tom Calvert, Jane Fee and Robert D. Cameron

Revision C - February 11, 2003

As approved at Senate Committee on Undergraduate Studies on February 11, 2003, with the note that cross-listing of this course as CMPT 149 is subject to final approval by the School of Computing Science.

Calendar Information

Course Number: CMPT 149/TECH 149

Course Title: Introduction to Computer Systems

Credit Hours: 3 Vector: 0-2-3

Course Description

A broad introduction to information technology, focusing on fundamental elements of computer architecture, basic structures for computer communications and networking, and social issues in the development and application of information technology generally.

Prerequisite: None.

Recommended: None.

Corequisite: None.

Special Instructions: Students with credit for TECH 154, 155 and 156 or any 100-level CMPT course may not take this course for further credit. CMPT 149 and TECH 149 are identical and students cannot take both courses for credit.

Course(s) to be dropped if this course is approved:

TECH 154-1 Fundamentals of Information Technology
TECH 155-1 Microcomputer Systems
TECH 156-1 Information Systems

Rationale for Introduction of this Course

This course consolidates three 1-credit module-based (5 week) courses into a single 3-credit semester-based course.

Will this be a required or elective course in the curriculum; probable enrolment when offered?

Required for the Tech One program; enrolment estimated at 400 per year.

Scheduling and Registration Information

Indicate Semester and Year this course would be first offered and planned frequency of offering thereafter.

2003-3 and annually thereafter.

Which of your present CFL faculty have the expertise to offer this course? Will the course be taught by sessional or limited term faculty?

Bach, Calvert

Are there any proposed student fees associated with this course other than tuition fees?

No.

Is this course considered a `duplicate' of any current or prior course under the University's duplicate course policy? Specify, as appropriate.

CMPT 149 and TECH 149 are identical duplicates. These courses also duplicate TECH 154-1, 155-1 and 156-1.

Resource Implications

Note: Senate has approved (S.93-11) that no new course should be approved by Senate until funding has been committed for necessary library materials. Each new course proposal must be accompanied by a library report and, if appropriate, confirmation that funding arrangements have been addressed.

Provide details on how existing instructional resources will be redistributed to accommodate this new course. For instance, will another course be eliminated or will the frequency of offering of other courses be reduced; are there changes in pedagogical style or class sizes that allow for this additional course offering.

This course will use the resources already in place for the three 1-credit modules it replaces.

Does the course require specialized space or equipment not readily available in the department or university, and if so, how will these resources be provided?

No.

Does this course require computing resources (e.g. hardware, software, network wiring, use of computer laboratory space) and if so, describe how they will be provided.

No new resources are required by virtue of this course consolidation.

Course Outline

Course Objectives:

In this course students will learn to:

Discuss the important trends in computer technology
Explain the difference between application software and system software.
Describe the functions and operations of the CPU, including the machine cycle and main memory
Identify system components and explain their uses
Distinguish between the types of input and output hardware
Distinguish between primary and secondary storage
Describe how data is captured and transmitted in a network communications system
Describe different types of network and network topology
Distinguish between the various types of files and data storage
Describe the differences between the various methods by which data is organized
Articulate the difference between traditional and object-oriented software design
Describe the role that information plays in trends such as automation, reengineering, outsourcing, and empowerment, which are reshaping the workplace
Appreciate the quality of life, economic, and equity issues surrounding the impact of computer systems on society.

Course Description:

This course is divided into three parts.

In Fundamentals of Information Technology information technology is analyzed from a system perspective. The environment IT systems have evolved in will be discussed, emphasizing the evolutionary process of computer and communication technologies. The internet, system software, and application software will be examined.

In Microcomputer Systems constituent components that make up computer systems are examined. Processing, input and output components, techniques, applications, as well as data storage technologies are presented. Also, telecommunication technologies, which provide IT systems with their global reach and connectivity, will be examined.

In Information Systems the data structures that underlie computer information systems applications will be the focal point, considering the wider organizational and societal context in which computer information systems operate and evolve. Future developments in computer systems (e.g. artificial intelligence) are discussed.

Delivery Method: Presentational Cooperative (PC)

Learning Activities and Evaluation:

Learning activities include project team building, project meetings, and team problem solving.

Evaluation is based on weekly unit quizzes and two team projects.

Texts, Resources & Materials

Text: Using Information Technology, S. Sawyer & S. Hutchinson, Irwin McGraw-Hill, 2003, 5^th ed.

Platform Requirements: PC

NOTE: these outlines are drafts and are subject to change. Official textbook list should be consulted.