Course Description: This course introduces the principles and techniques of computer-based management information systems (MIS)
Students will use integrated business software suites (word processor, spreadsheet, relational database, presentation, graphics and communication tools) for creation and delivery of dynamic documents for the business environment.
This course introduces:
hardware (personal computers, intra- inter- and extranets, and mainframes);
data, information and knowledge organization;
data management, and storage and retrieval principals;
distributed information sources and services; and
computer communciation and document delivery protocols (email, distributed email, forums, teleconferencing, World Wide Web) for business and research purposes.
Security, privacy, and legal, ethical and professional management information issues are discussed. Societal, organizational and individual impacts of technology are discussed.
Course Goals: Students should gain a basic understanding of computers, information systems, and advanced systems concepts for the business environment through hands-on individual and collaborative tools. Students should gain understanding of the intellectual challenges in the professional MIS environment. Students are expected to cultivate a healthy attitude toward change and develop adaptive problem-solving skills.
No Print: All assignments for this class will be submitted electronically. No paper will be exchanged.
Course Requirements: Students will create a dynamic, automated, virtual business document suitable for portfolio presentation. Students will display effective communication skills using of computer-based business tools. Students will develop co-training skills through individual and collaborative laboratory in person and online. Students will confirm a comprehensive understanding of a current management information systems issue by researching and writing a short position document and publishing it online.
Grading: Final course grade will be based on virtual portfolio (33%); position issue (33%); and class participation and evaluations (33%).
Text: Discovering Computers: A Link to the Future by Selley, Cashman, and Waggoner. (REQUIRED).
Optional additional texts: New Perspectives on Internet Using Netscape Navagator; New Perspectives on Microsoft Office Professional for Windows; Illustrated Projects for WWW.
Online Texts:
