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 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 career opportunities in the IT field.
• Identify major milestones in the history of computers.
• Identify and discuss computer ethics and security issues.
• 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.
• Identify and discuss Decision Support Systems, Artificial Intelligence, agents, and emerging technology (optional)

The required textbook and software for this course are:

Text: The two books listed below will be bundled in one package with ISBN 0536078386 or 978-0536078384. The textbooks also come bundled with the eBook student access code.

• Go!  Technology in Action (Introductory). (2008). By Evans, Martin, & Poatsy. 5th edition. Prentice-Hall Publishers.

• Go!  Office 2007 (Introductory). (2008). By Gaskin, Ferrett, Vargas and Marks. 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 that case, you need ISBN 0555011569 or 978-0555011560.

If you go to the Alexandria campus bookstore, the correct package should have a sticker on the front saying "ELI COURSES ONLY." If the package does not have that sticker, double-check the ISBN or ask for help.

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. Click "save big on Microsoft software" for pricing and ordering information.

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.

We are here to help you succeed in this course. Occasionally questions or problems may arise. Here is how to contact us when they do:

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

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.