Computer Studies Syllabus

For successful completion of Computer Studies, the student should complete homework assignments punctually.

For successful completion of Computer Studies, the student must maintain regular attendance.

A Plan for Periodic Student Evaluation:

Students will be tested on material in the following areas:

Computer Hardware:

· Identify types of computers, how they process information and how individual computers interact with other computing systems and devices

· Identify the function of computer hardware components

· Identify the factors that go into an individual or organizational decision on how to purchase computer equipment

· Identify how to maintain computer equipment and solve common problems relating to computer hardware

Computer Software:

· Identify how software and hardware work together to perform computing tasks and how software is developed and upgraded

· Identify different types of software, general concepts relating to software categories, and the tasks to which each type of software is most suited or not suited

· Identify fundamental concepts relating to database applications

Using an Operating System:

· Identify what an operating system is and how it works, and solve common problems related to operating systems

· Manipulate and control the Windows desktop, files and disks

· Identify how to change system settings, install and remove software

Common Program Functions:

· Be able to start and exit a Windows application and utilize sources of online help

· Identify common on-screen elements of Windows applications, change application settings and manage files within an application

· Perform common editing and formatting functions

· Perform common printing functions

Word Processing Functions:

· Be able to format text and documents including the ability to use automatic formatting tools

· Be able to insert, edit and format tables in a document

Spreadsheet Functions:

· Be able to modify worksheet data and structure and format data in a worksheet

· Be able to sort data, manipulate data using formulas and functions and add and modify charts in a worksheet

Presentation Software:

· Be able to create and format simple presentations

Networks and the Internet:

· Identify network fundamentals and the benefits and risks of network computing

· Identify the relationship between computer networks, other communications networks (like the telephone network) and the Internet

Electronic Mail:

· Identify how electronic mail works

· Identify how to use an electronic mail application

· Identify the appropriate use of e-mail and e-mail related "netiquette"

Using the Internet:

· Identify different types of information sources on the Internet

· Be able to use a Web browsing application

· Be able to search the Internet for information

The Impact of Computing and the Internet on Society:

· Identify how computers are used in different areas of work, school, and home

· Identify the risks of using computer hardware and software

· Identify how to use the Internet safely, legally, and responsibly

Specific Standards for Passing:

For successful completion of Computer Studies the student should maintain an average of 70% on the following areas:

For successful completion of Computer studies the student should complete homework punctually.

For successful completion of Computer Studies the student must maintain regular attendance.

Outline of Course Content:
I. Computing Fundamentals
	Identification of computers and components
	Categories of computers
	Handheld computers and PDAs
	Connecting computer systems
	Data Flow
	The boot process
	Interacting with the computer
	Opening and closing programs
	Computer vocabulary and informed purchase decisions
	Speed, performance, capacity
	The right tool for the job: choosing the best computer
	Other factors to consider
	Living with a computer
	Internal problems and safety
	External problems
	Maintenance and repair
	Defining the Role of the Operating System
	Operating system functions
	Capabilities and limitations of an OS
	Common OS problems and their solutions
	Navigating and Managing Windows
	The many faces of explorer
	Good housekeeping
	Taking Control of Windows
	Windows Control Panel
	Changing Control Panel settings
	Impact of changing system settings with the control panel
	Printers
	Computer Applications
	Intro to Applications
	Installing Applications
	Troubleshooting Applications
	Productivity Software
	Creating Text Documents with Word Processors
	Making Charts, Tables, and Graphs with Spreadsheet Software
	Using Database Software
	Creating Slideshows with Presentation Software
	Multimedia and Other Applications
	Graphics and Multimedia
	Personal Applications
	Utilities You Can’t Live Without
	The Right Tool for the Job
II. Key Applications
	Common Features of Windows Applications
	Getting Around
	Parts of the Screen
	The Many Faces of the Mouse
	Working with Documents
	Creating a New File
	Default File Names
	Opening an Existing File
	Saving a File
	Closing a File
	Problems you may encounter when Working with Documents
	Editing Documents
	Ways to Navigate
	Selecting Information and Using the Clipboard
	What to Do with Selected Information