iSYS 110: Foundations of Computing
(Note: This course was COMS 110: Foundation of Computer Science before the 2007-8 catalog.)
Contents
This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the foundations of information systems and
information technology. The topics covered include algorithms, pseudocode, computer theory,
computer hardware, computer software, and the related social issues. Lab work develops
familiarity with both hardware and software. The course is intended to provide knowledge
and skills applicable to all disciplines while providing a broad introduction to the field of
information systems and technology.
- MATH 112(4) College Algebra (or MATH 115 or MATH 121 or MATH 181)
This course (iSYS 110) is a prerequisite for the following iSYS course(s):
This course is normally scheduled every fall and spring semester.
(
under construction...)
The following content areas will be covered.
- Analysis and Design Tasks (about 5 hours)
- IS Commercial Implementations (about 5 hours)
- Telecom, Architectures, Topologies, Protocols (about 5 hours)
- Systems Software Components, Interactions (about 5 hours)
- Peripheral Devices (about 5 hours)
- Systems and IS Concepts (about 5 hours)
- External Information Resources (about 5 hours)
- Algorithm Development (about 5 hours)
- IS and Society (about 5 hours)
- Software Planning (about 5 hours)
- Software Life Cycles (about 5 hours)
Additional topics may also be covered based on time and student interest.
By the end of this course, you should be able to
- list steps necessary in systems analysis
- list commercial program products for development of information systems
- identify and describe the organization and operation of bit and byte protocols
- identify common topologies and implementation methods and issues for telecommunication systems
- identify the function of each of the layers of the ISO model
- list the major components of an operating system and define their interaction
- explain the installation requirements for major classes of peripheral device hardware and required software
- explain the principles of operation and software requirements and functions provided for each major classes of peripheral device
- give specific examples of major classes of peripheral devices
- define, explain and use the concepts of knowledge work software
- explain how to use an operating system and user interface to install and run programs, define and protect data files, and perform operating system utility functions
- define external information resources
- identify source, content, cost and timeliness
- define the term "algorithm"
- identify how information technology has affected everyday activities in society
- define the relationship of IS planning to organizational planning
- list key steps in planning a software project
- define life cycle concepts
Final textbook choice is determined by the instructor, who may
choose a textbook similar to one the following. This list can give you an
idea of the course topics, coverage, and depth.
Additional readings may be assigned by the instructor.
