Course Title: Introduction to Information Technology

Part A: Course Overview

Course Title: Introduction to Information Technology

Credit Points: 12.00


Course Code

Campus

Career

School

Learning Mode

Teaching Period(s)

COSC2394

City Campus

Undergraduate

155T Vocational Health and Sciences

Face-to-Face

Sem 1 2008,
Sem 2 2009,
Sem 1 2010,
Sem 2 2010

Course Coordinator: Dalija Beganovic

Course Coordinator Phone: +61 3 9925 4664

Course Coordinator Email: dalija.beganovic@rmit.edu.au

Course Coordinator Location: RMIT Building 51, Level 6, Room 3


Pre-requisite Courses and Assumed Knowledge and Capabilities

None


Course Description

This course will provide you with the introductory theory required to understand the components of computer systems and the operations of the systems themselves. It will also expose you to some of the more popular business application software. A major component of the course is the practical application of the knowledge gained from the theoretical content.

The material covers a broad range of introductory information technology  concepts.


Objectives/Learning Outcomes/Capability Development

Relevant program capabilities are embedded in the learning outcomes for this course. In meeting these learning outcomes you will also gain or improve capabilities in:
AD1 Enabling Knowledge
• Apply knowledge effectively to new situations and learn from the experience.
AD2 Critical Analysis
• Examine and consider accurately and objectively any topic, evidence or situation.
• Analyse and model requirements and constraints for the purpose of designing and implementing information technology systems.
• Evaluate and compare designs of such systems on the basis of requirements of organisational needs.
AD3 Problem Solving
• Analyse problems and synthesise suitable solutions.
• Design and implement information technology systems that accommodate specified requirements and constraints, based on analysis or requirements specification.
AD4 Communication
• Communicate effectively with a variety of audiences through a range of modes and media.
• Present and explain complex information technology systems solutions, alternative solutions and decision recommendations to IT and non-IT personnel via technical reports of professional standard and technical presentations.
AD6 Responsibility
• Accept responsibility for one’s own learning and make informed decisions in judging and adopting appropriate behaviour in professional and social situations. This includes accepting responsibility for life-long learning.
• Effectively apply relevant standards, ethical considerations and an understanding of legal and privacy issues to designing IT systems.


On successful completion of this course you will be able to:
1. Understand basic concepts of computers and data communication.
2. Demonstrate competence in the use of a UNIX operating system.
3. Demonstrate competence in the use of a Linux operating system.
4. Demonstrate how the World Wide Web can be used as a research tool.
5. Create a home page to present a portfolio and curriculum vitae.
6. Prepare a professional and comprehensive written report.
7. Use common business application software packages.
8. Identify the importance of collaborative work and effective oral presentations.
9. Use Project Management software.


Overview of Learning Activities

The learning activities included in this course are:

• key concepts will be explained in lectures, classes or online, where syllabus material will be presented and the subject matter will be illustrated with demonstrations and examples;
• tutorials and/or labs and/or group discussions (including online forums) focussed on projects and problem solving will provide practice in the application of theory and procedures, allow exploration of concepts with teaching staff and other students, and give feedback on your progress and understanding;
• assignments, as described in Overview of Assessment (below) and Assessment Tasks (part B course guide for this Teaching Period), requiring an integrated understanding of the subject matter; and
• private study, working through the course as presented in classes and learning materials, and gaining practice at solving conceptual and technical problems.


Overview of Learning Resources

You will make extensive use of computer laboratories and relevant software provided by the School. You will be able to access course information and learning materials through the Learning Hub (also known as online@RMIT) and may be provided with copies of additional materials in class or via email. Lists of relevant reference texts, resources in the library and freely accessible Internet sites will be provided.


Overview of Assessment

The assessment for this course comprises practical work involving the development of Web pages, UNIX / Linux laboratory exercises, a written report and a final exam.
See Assessment Tasks (part B course guide for this Teaching Period) for assessment details, including deadlines, weightings, and hurdle requirements.