COURSE DESCRIPTION FROM OFFICIAL BULLETIN

A general survey of allowing students to explore up-to-the-minute issues in information technology. Credits will vary from one to four hours.

OBJECTIVES

• Explain key terms and concepts used to describe the components of information systems
• Discuss Information Systems in Organizations
• Discuss Hardware and Software in Information Systems
• Learn basic concepts of Novell NetWare, Windows NT, Unix and other operating systems
• Telecommunications and Networking
• Internet and Intranets within Organizations
• Learn how to design and implement Decision Support Systems
• Learn how to design and implement Database Management Systems

These objectives can only be achieved through joint effort. We will work to stimulate your interest and learning in these areas, but you will be expected to display initiative and a program of self-study as well. In that sense, a complementary objective of the course is to provide you with an environment that will encourage and reward your own intellectual effort, while simultaneously maintaining rigorous standards that identify those who are motivated to pursue excellence in their own educational preparation for a business career.

ACADEMIC HONESTY

Students are advised that cheating and plagiarism are not tolerated at St. Gregory’s University. Students are expected to abide by the University's academic regulations and policy and are responsible for awareness of the University's definition of these activities. The consequences of violating the academic honesty standard may include a grade of "0" on the assignment/exam, a grade of "F" in the course, and, possibly, expulsion from the University.

REQUIRED TEXT AND SUPPLEMENTAL MATERIALS TO BE PURCHASED BY STUDENT

Principles of Information Systems, Ralph M. Stair and George W. Reynolds. Fourth Edition Cambridge Ma. Course Technology, 1999. ISBN 0-7500-1079-X

INTERNET RESOURCES

ATTENDANCE POLICY

• Attendance is recorded and reported. However, attendance does not add points to the grade. Students should be aware that research shows a strong correlation between attendance and course grade. Absence will not be considered an excuse for submitting assignments late.
• Lack of attendance will not automatically drop or withdraw a student from class. Students have the responsibility of processing a "Drop" from any class. Note: Most F's result from students ceasing to attend the class without processing a "Drop" slip.

METHODS OF ASSESSMENT AND STUDENT EVALUATION

EXAMINATIONS AND PRESENTATIONS

• If any exam question is left unattempted, the value of that question will be subtracted from the exam score.
• Being prepared and present for the exams and presentations is your responsibility. The exam and presentation will be given on schedule. Mark your calendars now.
• A make-up exam will not be given. If the exam is missed, your total points possible will be adjusted accordingly.

HOMEWORK

Each homework assignment must be e-mailed. It is your responsibility to see that the e-mail was received. Late homework will not be accepted.

COURSE OUTLINE

The schedule is flexible. Much material is required. It is not possible for an instructor to cover all the course material without student independent study. As students are interested in a particular topic or as test scores warrant review, more time will be spent on a chapter, or as may be required.