BIT100 - Introduction to Information Technology
Background and Rationale
This course introduces students to the history of computer hardware and software
development and the integration of computing machinery in the modern business
environment.
Learning Outcomes
At the end of this course, students will be able to:
Use the appropriate computer application used in business for a given task
Outline the history of computing technology, the Internet, and the World-Wide
Web
Explain how computing and society impact one another
Demonstrate understanding of IT and its Related and Informing Disciplines
Explain how IT has impacted individuals, the globalization of world economy,
culture, political systems, health, security, warfare
Gain the ability to use of current techniques, skills, and tools necessary to
computing practices.
Gain the ability to apply current technical concepts and practices in the core
information technologies.
Course Content
a) Unit I: Introduction to Computers
Brief History of Computers
Computer Generations
The Personal Computer
b) Unit II: Computer Hardware
Components of a computer system
Major categories of computers
Input devices, methods and systems
Output devices
Secondary storage devices
Processors
Communications Hardware
c) Unit III: Computer Software
Systems Software
Operating Systems
Utility Programmes
Language Translators
Application Software
File Concepts
d) Unit IV: Data Producing
Transforming data into information
Data representation
Data processing
Factors affecting processing speed
Extending the Processor’s power
CPUs used in personal computers
Storage devices
Measurement of drive performance
e) Unit V: Information Technology Application Domains
Bio-informatics & Medical Applications
Business Application
Education Applications
Law Enforcement
Political Processes
E-commerce
Manufacturing
Agriculture Software Development
Entertainment
Assessments
Continuous Assessment 40%
Final Exams 60%
Prescribed Textbooks
Oja, D. and Parsons, J.J. (2014) New Perspectives on Computer Concepts, Boston:
Cengage Learning.
Peter, N. (2006) Introduction to Computers 6th Edition, Ohio: McGraw Hill.
