COURSE: CpSc 210 - Productivity Software

Catalog Description: An in-depth, practical study of existing productivity software packages that focuses primarily on decision-support systems for microcomputers. Projects will involve the use of intermediate and advanced features of various software packages, as well as the use of several packages in finding computer-based solutions to information storage and retrieval problems. Prerequisite: Microcomputer proficiency. (3 credits)

Course Outcomes: This course and its outcomes support the Information Systems Learning Outcomes of Problem Solving and Critical Thinking (PS&CT), Communication and Interpersonal Skills (C&IS), and Ethical and Professional Responsibilities (E&PR). These Information Systems Learning Outcomes are tied directly to the University Wide Outcomes of Critical Thinking and Problem Solving, Communication, and Values and Ethics.

Objectives	Strategies	Assessment Methods
The student will be able to: Identify the relationship of hardware and software to the performance of a computer system. [PS&CT b, e] Utilize the intermediate and advanced features of software applications to solve intermediate to complex information storage and retrieval problems. [PS&CT b, c] Identify the concerns related to the ethical and legal use of advancing computer technologies. [E&PR a, b, d] Identify and describe the components of data communication systems and a decision support system. [C&IS b] Recognize the need for continuing professional development. [E&PR e]	Together, the students and the professor will: Discuss in detail the past, present, and future data processing technologies. Review the fundamental features of modern software applications and discuss in detail the intermediate and advanced features of such applications. Study the hardware and software components of local area networks and data communications in general. Discuss in detail file management techniques. Thoroughly investigate security issues and backup and retrieval options. Study the issues related to the ethical, moral, and legal use of software and hardware technology. Discuss in detail the selection, evaluation, and management of software packages.	The student will: Answer chapter exercises or questions presented by the instructor. Demonstrate their skill in solving problems using various software applications and the integration of such applications; the assigned problems could be assigned as individual or group projects. Complete graded exams/quizzes that assess knowledge of software and hardware fundamentals and application software. Course-Embedded: PS&CT through projects, exams, quizzes and class discussion, C&IS through projects, exams, quizzes, class discussion and presentations, and E&PR through exams, quizzes, and class discussion.