CSC-101: Introduction to Computing

Department of Computer Science
Instructor: Peggy Batchelor
Office: RH 200A 864-294-3222

Texts:

Technology in Action Technology in Action, 7th Edition, by Alan Evans, Kendall Martin, and Mary Anne Poatsy; Prentice Hall, Publisher
ISBN:-10: 0135096693
ISBN-13:  9780135096697

Supplemental readings (to be provided)

Supplemental laboratory handouts (to be provided)

Course materials can be downloaded from http://www.pearsonhighered.com/techinaction

Course objectives:

1. To be able to use the computer as a problem solving tool.
1. Using Excel to solve a variety of quantitative problems
2. Manipulating databases with Access
3. A lesser emphasis on other software

2. To understand and be able to articulate basic computing concepts.
1. How various forms of information (such as numbers, text and pictures) can be modeled, stored and manipulated by the computer
2. Basic algorithmic procedures such as how to sort and search data; plus other applications such as encryption and compression
3. The function of a computer’s hardware, operating system and other software
4. How computers communicate with one another

Class Format 

Class sessions will consist of:

1. Lecture/discussion related to the text

2. Demonstration

3. Hands‐on practice geared toward familiarization with the concepts and technologies presented

4. Hands‐on activities and demonstrations as required

One or more sessions may meet only informally to allow time to complete hands‐on activities.

Requirements 

Class Attendance:  While class attendance is not directly included in grading for this course, attendance at all sessions is strongly
 encouraged and may be reflected in final grading.

Hands‐On Activities: Hands‐on activities will be completed as part of the experimentation and implementation of various technological capabilities as part of the instruction of this course including Web content, presentations, digital images and audio, and participation in online discussions. Significant class time will be made available for working on these guided activities. Students may use the public labs at Furman or any other computer with the appropriate applications for additional time needed to complete assignments. Specific completion objectives will accompany each activity. Instructor assistance will be available and cooperative work among participants will be encouraged in the completion of all hands‐on activities.

Homework/Lab Assignments: All assignments must be completed and handed in on time at the beginning of class. Work must be complete. I will not accept a partially completed assignment. Late work will be accepted on a case-by-case basis only. Your work must be your own. Cheating will result in a grade of 0 for the applicable assignment; further disciplinary action, including assigning a failing grade (F) for the entire course may also be taken. Missed work will result in a grade of 0 for the assignment. Exceptional circumstances should be discussed with the instructor in advance.

Assignments must be printed out (when appropriate) and properly identified. Each printout must include:

• Your Name
• The Assignment and/or File Name

Printouts must be stapled together in order exactly as listed in the Assignments section of the syllabus. Save all checked and graded assignments and quizzes for possible future inquiries regarding grades.

Attendance: Attendance is required. Please make every effort to arrive on time! Attendance and punctuality are critical to success in the course. If you are unable to attend class, you are responsible for completing the material covered on the syllabus. Any missed work is due the first day you return to class. Please keep me informed about any extenuating circumstances that may affect your attendance. Absences in excess of twice the number of weekly class meetings will result in the student having to withdraw from the course. If you arrive late for class, be sure to check with me at the end of class to be marked “tardy but present.” Two late arrivals will be considered one absence.

You must arrive for the final examination prior to the beginning of the exam. No one will be admitted after the designated start time.

Students with Disabilities: If a student with a disability desires an accommodation, it is the student's responsibility to identify themselves as having a disability and to make a formal request for appropriate accommodations. The Disabilities Services Director at Furman is Donna Taylor at extension 2322.

Academic Dishonesty: Academic dishonesty in any form is a fundamental offense against the integrity of the entire academic community and is always a threat to the standards of the college and to the standing of every student. In taking tests examinations, doing homework, laboratory work, and writing papers, students are expected to perform with honor.

One of the most common forms of academic dishonesty is plagiarism. Plagiarism is the use of another's words and ideas as if they were one's own. To avoid plagiarism, students should acknowledge their sources, using whatever documentation is appropriate to the discipline in which their work is being done.