CIS 105:  Survey of
Computer Information Systems
 Online Course Overview

 

Computers are an integral part of our everyday life. We use them at home and in business. This course is an introduction to the world of computers. It includes an overview of computer information systems and concepts. Learn about hardware, operating systems, application software, the Internet, basic programming structure and languages, and an introduction to the system development life cycle. You will receive hands-on experience with the Internet, Windows XP, and Microsoft Office 2007 Professional (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Access), as well as one programming language (i.e. Visual Basic .Net 2008). 

See our Official Course Competencies for detailed course outline.  Although there are no prerequisites for this course, knowledge of Windows XP or Vista, and the Internet is strongly recommended. Ability to type at least 30 wpm is helpful

Students will be required to:

  • Purchase the textbook bundle through the MCC bookstore:
    • 512 or larger  Flash Drive
  • Read lecture notes from your instructor for instructions on how to complete each assignment.
  • Review PowerPoint presentations for the chapter
  • Follow the Assignment Checklist for each chapter and perform hands-on applications (Windows, Internet, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access, and Visual Basic).  
  • Download student data files.
  • Use Windows XP or Vista, Microsoft Office 2007 Professional Edition and Visual Studio.Net 2008 (software is available for use at the MCC computer lab if you don't have it at home).
  • Zip files using file compression software when instructed.
  • Participate in online discussions and group projects.
  • Complete Online Quizzes and Exams.

Students will also have an opportunity to interact with the instructor and their classmates either by email, or by on line
bulletin board, and/or online office hours.

DISTANCE LEARNING INFORMATION:

Students are STRONGLY RECOMMENDED to visit the following web site to learn more about how to be a successful student learner at Mesa Community College.  This web site, Distance Learning Information, will guide you through everything you need to know before you begin your online courses.

The instructions for this class are geared towards Windows-based computers only.  Instructions for MAC computers will NOT be provided.

  • Email Account - Students are required to subscribe to MCC Student Mail Account. In addition, students may also have one additional email from other system such as Free Internet Email Services (this will only be used in an emergency).
  • The ability to type at least 30 wpm.
     

Course Resource Materials:

http://www.mc.maricopa.edu/dept/d07/cis105/index.html
 

TECHNOLOGY REQUIREMENTS

Students will need the following hardware and software to successfully complete this distance learning course.  Please note that this course is geared towards Windows-based computers only.  No MAC instructions will be provided.

  • Access to a Windows based computer with color monitor
  • Access to Windows XP
  • Access to Microsoft Office 2007 Professional (includes Word 2007, Excel 2007, PowerPoint 2007 and Access 2007) 180 day trial provided with new book bundle.  If you purchase a used book then you can buy the software bundle separately.
  • Access to Visual Studio.Net 2008.  Free in the lab and also as a Microsoft download.
  • An Internet Service Provider (ISP).
  • Web browser such as  Internet Explorer
  • Subscribe to MCC E-mail system.  All registered students are required to have an MCC E-mail address.  Students must log into this page to self-subscribe to MCC E-mail system.  (Note: if you are a continuing student and had an MCC email account in a previous class, you do not have to create a new account).
  • Recommended: Ensure you install and/or update your virus protection software (i.e. Norton's Antivirus; McAfee; AVG, Penicillin) since files infected with viruses will not be accepted.