In this course, you will learn computer concepts and Internet skills.  You will become proficient in Microsoft Office, which includes word processing, spreadsheet, database, and presentation software to demonstrate skills required for computer literacy.  Additionally, you will receive training in the use of XHTML.

If you do well in this course, you will be able to:

• Identify and discuss the four main functions of computer hardware: input, processing, output, and storage.
• Identify and describe major hardware components.
• Identify, describe and use communications and networking terminology and technology to include Internet operations and its uses.
• Describe the major operating system functions and demonstrate usage of operating system services to include: disk management, file management, and memory management.
• Identify and discuss computer ethics and security issues.
• Demonstrate searching, validation, and evaluation of information found online and in library databases.
• Identify, discuss and use important categories of application software: word processing, spreadsheet, database management, and presentation graphics.
• Identify and discuss software development processes and programming languages.
• Create a Web site with xhtml tags and post to a Web server.

The required textbook and software for this course are:

Text: The two books listed below will be bundled in one package with ISBN 0558242359. The bundle also includes an access code for several chapters (10, 11, Windows XP, and Windows Vista) that are available online only.

• Go! Technology in Action. (2010). By Evans, Martin, & Poatsy. 6th edition. Prentice-Hall Publishers.

• Go!  Office 2007 (Introductory). (2010). By Gaskin, Ferrett, Vargas and Marks. 3rd edition. Prentice-Hall Publishers.

NOTE: If you already have used books which don't include the access code, you may purchase the access code only. In this case, you need ISBN: 0558315100.

Software :  You will also need the following software to complete this course:

• Windows XP or Windows Vista
• Office 2007 Professional Edition. Make sure you have access to the professional version of Office 2007. The standard version does not include Access. NVCC students can purchase Office 2007 Professional at a greatly reduced rate. Go to the bookstore link and click Student Offers at the top.
• You can also download a 60-day trial copy of Office 2007 Professional edition at http://us1.trymicrosoftoffice.com/default.aspx?re_ms=oo&culture=en-US.  There are two files, total of about 815Mb, and it takes about 20 minutes to download both at the same time with broadband access.  If you choose this option, wait until we start Word in Week 8 so that your trial version will not expire before the end of the course. 
• If you are using Office 2008 for the MAC, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint are compatible with Office 2007.  However, Office 2008 for the MAC does not include Access.  You will have to use a PC to complete the Access assignments.

For information on how to order your textbooks, go to http://eli.nvcc.edu/books/

Your course grade will be determined by the assignments and exams, according to the following points:

Your final grade will be based on the following scale:

There are 4 exams in this course. You are expected to take your examinations at one of the NVCC campus Testing Centers. Be sure to allow enough time to complete your exam before the Testing Center closes; Testing Centers have specific policies relating to the administration of ELI exams. You will need to take a photo ID, your NovaConnect empl ID number, and the appropriate Exam Pass when you go to the Testing Center.  

For Testing Center locations, hours of operation and policies, click here.

For information on taking exams outside of the metropolitan area, click here.

I am here to help you succeed in this course. Occasionally questions or problems may arise. Here is how to contact me when they do:

E-mail: mrynn@nvcc.edu,
Telephone: ( 703) 323-3856

You may also call me to schedule a meeting in person, either at ELI or my campus office in Woodbridge. 

1. Use your web browser to connect to http://www.nvcc.edu/bbstart. Follow the directions to determine your email, Blackboard and VIVA account user names and passwords.
2. Access your email account and make sure you know how to use it; you will be required to use this account for all course-related email.
3. Log on to Blackboard at http://learn.vccs.edu.
4. Click on this course under "My Courses." Review the entire course to make sure you understand what will be required of you. Then start completing the assignments.

Please note that account generation takes approximately one week from the time of your paid registration. If you cannot log on after one week, contact the IT Help Desk. If you can log on to Blackboard, but your course isn't listed, please contact ELI or your instructor.