Module Code: H6INCOM
Long Title Introduction to Computers
Title Introduction to Computers
Module Level: LEVEL 6
EQF Level: 5
EHEA Level: Short Cycle
Credits: 5
Module Coordinator: PRAMOD PATHAK
Module Author: Helen Power
Departments:  
Specifications of the qualifications and experience required of staff  
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this module the learner will be able to:
# Learning Outcome Description
LO1 LO 1. Describe what a digital computer is and how data is processed
LO2 LO 2. Identify how business application software supports the business endeavour
LO3 LO 3. Discuss the ways in which business application software is acquired and Implemented
LO4 LO 4. Illustrate the data storage, organisation and management techniques supporting data processing applications as well as understanding the fundamentals of networking.
LO5 LO 5. Identify the challenges posed by information systems security and control and management solutions
LO6 LO 6. Demonstrate technical skills in a range of business application software tools
Dependencies
Module Recommendations

This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is required before enrolment on this module. While the prior learning is expressed as named NCI module(s) it also allows for learning (in another module or modules) which is equivalent to the learning specified in the named module(s).
No recommendations listed
Co-requisite Modules
No Co-requisite modules listed
Entry requirements  
 

Module Content & Assessment

Indicative Content
Introduction to Computing (20%)
• Introduction to computers • Types of computers • History of computing • Typical Components of a Computer System o Overviews of Architecture o Processing o Memory and Storage Devices o Input:Output
Software Fundamentals (15%)
• Introduction to Software • System software • Applications software – end-user tools • Applications - bespoke systems and software packages
Software Package sourcing and evaluation (5%)
• Advantages and disadvantages of developing bespoke applications or buying application software packages • The Vendor marketplace • The Request for Proposals • Evaluating Vendor Proposals
Networking Fundamentals (20%)
• Communications media and channels • Wireless and mobile computing • Communications hardware and protocols • Centralised and distributed systems • Networks and network applications
Data organisation and management fundamentals (20%)
• Introduction to Data Management • File processing and organisation • Database management systems • Database architectures
Security Management (20%)
• Principles of Security Management • Physical Security • Systems Security and control • Special Security Considerations • Tools and Technologies for Safeguarding Info. Systems • Business Recovery Planning and Disaster Recovery Planning
Practical Element
n/a
Introduction to the Operating Environment
• The Windows Environment • Common user interface • Multitasking • Shared resources • Features of Windows • Running applications • Customising the desktop
Telecommunications
• How to send email • How to connect to the Internet • Using the Internet and the WWW
End-user applications support tools
n/a
Spreadsheets
• Entering data and printing • Using formulae • Using scroll bars • Saving a workbook • Using built-in functions • Presentation features • Creating charts
Database
• Creating tables • Simple queries • Simple Reports
Word Processing
• Creating and saving documents • Presentation of documents • Advanced Features of Word Processing Software
Presentation Software
• Creating dynamic presentations
Internet
• Searching and browsing • Basic web page creation
Teaching methodology:
The learning strategy involves the use of lectures, tutorials, practicals, case studies and class discussions as appropriate.
Assessment Breakdown%
Coursework40.00%
End of Module Assessment60.00%

Assessments

Full Time

Coursework
Assessment Type: Assignment % of total: 40
Assessment Date: n/a Outcome addressed: 1,2,3,4,5,6
Non-Marked: No
Assessment Description:
n/a
End of Module Assessment
Assessment Type: Terminal Exam % of total: 60
Assessment Date: End-of-Semester Outcome addressed:  
Non-Marked: No
Assessment Description:
End-of-Semester Final Examination
No Workplace Assessment

NCIRL reserves the right to alter the nature and timings of assessment

 

Module Workload

Module Target Workload Hours 0 Hours
Workload: Full Time
Workload Type Workload Description Hours Frequency Average Weekly Learner Workload
Lecture No Description 2 Every Week 2.00
Lab No Description 1 Every Week 1.00
Total Weekly Contact Hours 3.00
Workload: Part Time
Workload Type Workload Description Hours Frequency Average Weekly Learner Workload
Lecture No Description 2 Every Week 2.00
Total Weekly Contact Hours 2.00
 

Module Resources

Recommended Book Resources
  • Laudon, K.C. & Laudon, J.P.. (2013), Essentials of Management Information Systems, Tenth Edition. Pearson.
Supplementary Book Resources
  • Fox, R.. (2013), Information Technology: An Introduction for Today's Digital World, Chapman and Hall/CRC.
  • Whiteley, D.. (2013), An Introduction to Information Systems, Palgrave Macmillan.
  • Cox, J., Lambert, J. & Frye, C.. (2010), Microsoft Office 2010 Step by Step, Microsoft Press.
  • Kennedy, J.. (2012), Complete ECDL 5, 2nd Edition. Gill & Macmillan.
This module does not have any article/paper resources
This module does not have any other resources
Discussion Note: