Credit Points 10

Legacy Code 300134

Coordinator Jianhua Yang Opens in new window

Description This introductory unit gives students an insight into the history, structure, operations and uses of computers, and their impact on society. This will be complemented by hands-on use of computers and popular application software packages in a graphical user interface environment. Students gain a basic understanding of the uses of computers, and the skills necessary to use popular applications software, including word processing, spreadsheet and database packages, and Internet tools and services.

School Computer, Data & Math Sciences

Discipline Information Technology, Not Elsewhere Classified.

Student Contribution Band HECS Band 2 10cp

Check your HECS Band contribution amount via the Fees page.

Level Undergraduate Level 1 subject

Equivalent Subjects LGYB 4133 - Introduction to Computers LGYB 9621 - Computer Fundamentals LGYA 9786 - Information Technology

Restrictions

Permission required for students enrolled in 3562 Bachelor of Science (Advanced Science).

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this subject, students should be able to:

1. recognise and describe the function(s) of the fundamental components of any computer system
2. demonstrate an understanding of the principles of operation of computer hardware, software, peripheral devices and the integration of these components into computer systems
3. competently use a range of common applications software packages to complete tasks commonly encountered in educational, work and leisure environments
4. effectively utilise electronic networks to communicate
5. demonstrate the ability to successfully search and retrieve information from online sources
6. critically discuss issues raised by the use of computers in society

Subject Content

1. History, development, application of computers and information systems;
2. Hardware - CPU, input and output devices, storage and file organisation, networks, data communication;
3. Operating environments;
4. Disk and file management;
5. Wordprocessing - creating & formatting documents, document presentation;
6. Spreadsheets - creation, formatting, formulas, functions and charts;
7. Databases - concepts; accessing simple databases;
8. Graphics - drawing packages, graphics in documents;
9. Presentations software;
10. Exporting/importing data between applications;
11. Network applications- email, on-line databases, the Internet;
12. Computers in society - privacy and security issues, ethical computer use, ergonomics.