Class Syllabus: Understanding Technology
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Office Hours: |
Dr Yaping Gao is available daily via email.
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Course Meeting Times: |
No required pre-set class meetings; Self-paced
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Course Description
This is an introductory technology course on using and understanding information technology for people who use computers as everyday tools both at home and at workplace, not for individuals aiming to learn programming and designing computer systems. This course focuses on communications using computer technology, the digital revolution, the Internet, and the World Wide Web. It covers the fundamental computing concepts surrounding the digital age including software, hardware, data, people, communications, and procedures. It also examines ethical issues in the information age and investigates emerging technologies that could impact individuals as well as businesses and organizations in the future. This course is designed in a logical sequence and format to help the average user to better understand and utilize information technology. If you are also interested in how computers work, I encourage you to take my "Understanding Computers" class as well. If you would like to become well versed in general computing or Internet related concepts and terminology, check out my "Understanding Computer & Internet Terminology" class. If you use online communication a lot or are just starting to use various online communcations tools such as email, chat, instant messaging (IM), and etc, I strongly recommand my "Netiquette, Emoticons, and Abbreviations for Online Communications" class, a fun class that introduces and explains the proper use of netiquette, emoticons, abbreviations, and concepts and terminology for online communications, such as email, discussion forums, chat, and instant messaging. Course Requirements
The only requirement for this class is a computer with Internet access. If you are reading this, you are all set and ready to go.
Course Objectives & Outcomes
At the conclusion of the course, students will acquire a general understanding and fundamental knowledge of: * information technology (computer technology + communication technology), the Internet, the World Wide Web, and the E-world and Cyberspace
* how computers work, types of computers, major components of a computer system, types of hardware and software
* networks and communications: from the analog to the digital age, cyber- ethics in communications
* future of information technology: promises of the digital age as well as concerns and issues Course Materials
Students are not required to purchase any textbooks nor any software. All course materials will be posted and presented to students in the virtual classroom. There will also be plenty of online resources provided.
Grading Policy
Students will be evaluated based on their understanding of course materials, their participation in and contribution to online discussion, and completion of online quizzes and other assignments.
Disclaimer
This is a non-credit course, and is provided by Dr Yaping Gao for informational purposes only. This course cannot be substituted for any state, government, licensing, or educational requirements.
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