This course will provide students with an understanding of the fundamentals of computer nomenclature, particularly with respect to personal computer hardware and software and the World Wide Web; make use of the World Wide Web as a repository of the latest information and an integrated learning tool; help students develop an in-depth understanding of why computers are essential components in the business world and society in general; focus on the computer as a valuable productivity tool; teach students how to recognize the personal computer's position as the backbone of the computer industry and emphasize its use a stand-alone and networked device; present strategies for purchasing, installing, and maintaining a personal computer system; and, assist students in planning a career in the computer field. 

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

• Identify common applications of computers in business and industry.
• Distinguish between the Internet and the World Wide Web and describe the features of each.
• Describe the functions of the main hardware components of a computer system.
• Distinguish between application software and system software, and identify examples of each type.
• Identify the main components and applications of a communications system.
• Identify the main components and applications of a database management system.
• Critically analyze and reach your own conclusions about important issues brought about by current technology.
• Describe the main steps in both system development and program development.
• Identify the main components and applications of enterprise computing.
• Identify and describe careers and certifications in the computer industry.

The required textbook for this course is:

• Discovering Computers 2009, Complete
  by Gary B. Shelly, Thomas J. Cashman, Misty E. Vermaat, Course Technology 

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

Call before going to a campus bookstore to make sure the materials are in stock. If you don't see what you need, ask for assistance. Each bookstore has a separate section for ELI courses. Print this page and take it with you to avoid confusion.

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

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 Annandale. 

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.