Introduction to IT (BSTI-209)

Class Rules

• Attendance Requirements: 75% attendance mandatory for final exam eligibility.

• Late Attendance: Attendance marked only within 5 minutes of the starting time.

• Class Discipline: Strictly enforced with zero tolerance towards distractions.

• Mobile Phones: Not allowed during class.

• Class Engagement: Must remain attentive, participate in discussions, and ask questions.

• Assignments: Zero marks for plagiarized or copied work; no re-tests or re-quizzes permitted.

Grading Criteria (Tentative)

• Quizzes (3) : 6%

• Assignments (3) : 6%

• Midterm Exam (1) : 30%

• Project/Presentation (1) : 6%

• Class Participation : 2%

• Final Exam : 50%

Recommended Readings

• Shelly, Gary B. & Misty E. Vermaat: Discovering Computers 2010: Living in a Digital World, Complete. Cengage Learning, 2009.

• Wempen, Faithe: Computing Fundamentals: Introduction to Computers. John Wiley & Sons, 2014.

• Robertazzi, Thomas: Basics of Computer Networking. Springer Science & Business Media, 2011.

• Deepak Bharikohe: Fundamentals of IT, latest edition.

• Suresh K. Basandra: Computers Today, latest edition.

Other Helping Materials

• Websites: GeeksforGeeks, Byjus

• Video Resources: Khan Academy, Techquickie, Technical Guruji on YouTube

• Online Learning Platforms: Udemy, Edx, Coursera

Course Objectives

• Windows Proficiency: Organize desktop, utilize taskbar, menus, dialogs, and toolbars; launch applications.

• Web Skills: Use browsers for web searching, email communication, download/print graphics, and create basic web pages.

• Word Processing: Use Microsoft Word to create and modify documents at an introductory level.

• Spreadsheet Skills: Use Microsoft Excel for basic spreadsheet creation, modification, printing, formulas, and functions.

• Database Management: Utilize Microsoft Access to build and query a simple database.

• Presentations: Create basic presentations using Microsoft PowerPoint.

Course Contents

Core Concepts

• Introduction to Computer System

• Software: Understanding software components of computers

• Operating System: Introduction to Windows

• Microsoft Office Applications: Focus on Word, Excel, and PowerPoint

• Data vs. Information: Exploring the differences and conversions of data into information through IT

Classification of Computers

• By Construction: Analog, Digital, Hybrid

• By Configuration:

  • Supercomputers

  • Mainframe Computers

  • Mini Computers

  • Micro Computers (PCs)

  • Desktop and Portable Computers

  • Simputer

Computer System Components

• Hardware and Software: Definitions and differences

• Input Devices: Understanding different types of input devices

• Storage: RAM & ROM distinctions, character representation, various coding systems, and number systems

Detailed Course Outline

• History/Generations of Computers

• Basic Components: Input/output devices and processors

• Storage Devices & Communication Ports

• Logic and Characteristics of Computers

• Human Brain vs. Computer: Advantages and disadvantages

• Software Understanding: System and application software

• Programming Introduction: Basics of programming languages

• Data Management: Focus on Database Management Systems

• Networking: Concepts of data communication and internet

• Security Issues: Data security, cybersecurity

• Handling PCs: General troubleshooting tips

• Emerging Technologies: Brief on Artificial Intelligence, ChatGPT, and upcoming technologies

Information Technology Overview

• Definition: IT encompasses technologies that produce, manipulate, store, communicate, and disseminate information.

• Components:

  • Computer hardware and software

  • Networks and telecommunications

  • Databases and information management systems

  • Internet/web technologies

Importance of Information Technology

• Data is Essential: Described as the new oil; critical for business competitiveness.

• Functions: Collecting, processing, analyzing, and securely storing data.

Becoming Technology Savvy

• Tech Savvy Definition: Confidence and capability in using technology for personal and professional tasks.

• Empowerment: Encouragement to embrace technology for learning and growth.

Network of Computational Devices

• Definition of Network: A system connecting multiple computers, with the internet as the largest network.

• Functionality: Accessing information and services across connected devices.

Application Areas of Information Technology

• Health and Medicine: Telemedicine, health informatics, and robotics.

• Finance: Virtual money, cryptocurrency, micro-credits, and payments.

• Government and Politics: Enhancements in connectivity with voters, online polling, and public registration.

Assignments

• Assignment Topic:

  • Analyze how IT is utilized in a specific field.

  • Write a one-page response to present in the next class.

What is a Computer?

• Definition: An electronic device that processes data as per specified instructions.

Purpose of a Computer

• Data Processing: Converting data into useful information.

Data vs. Information

• Definitions:

  • Data: Raw, unorganized facts.

  • Information: Processed and organized data presented meaningfully.

• Usage Context: Data needs context to enable decision-making.

Key Differences

• Nature:

  • Data is unrefined; information is structured.

• Decision Making:

  • Raw data alone typically isn't sufficient for decisions; information is essential for decision-making.