Course Title: INF 040 Course Name: Fundamentals of Information Technology Number of Credits: 3 Duration: 15 weeks of classes Number

of contact hours: 1st semester: lecture hours or its equivalent per week; Prerequisites: None Course offered by: Department of Computer Science and IT Course description: This course is an introductory course in information technology. Topics include foundations in hardware, software, data and an overview of the use of information technology in organizations. Data communications and network is introduced together with the concepts of multimedia systems and the emerging trends in the field. Learning outcomes: At the end of the course students will be able to: Develop an understanding of the basic hardware components of computers and how these components interact to produce the primary functions of everyday computer operations. Demonstrate an understanding of the impact of information technology on individuals, organizations, and society. Application and Limitations of IT. Examples of IT in Everyday Life. Describe the major components of information technology applications: Hardware, computer networks, software, data, processes, and people. Describe the different components of a computer network. Demonstrate an understanding of different types of networks. Course outline: Module 1: Introduction (6hours) Data Information Strategic value of information Information as a corporate resource Qualities of good information Position of computer system within an organization

Module 2: Computer System (6 hours) Brief history of development of electronic computers Types of computers

Functional parts of a digital computer

Module 3: Hardware and Software (5 hours) Definition Input devices Output devices Processing and storage devices Specifications of a typical state of the art computer Definition Type of software Operating systems Operating systems roles and functions Overview of software development Module 4: Data Processing (5 hours) Definition Aims and stages Data processing Vs. Information processing Methods of data processing Online /Interactive processing Real time processing Client Server Distributed Vs Centralized processing Module 5: Data Communications and Computer Networks (8 hours) Principles of Data Communication Data Communication Methods Types of Networks Protocols Network Configuration Module 6: Multimedia Systems (6 hours) Applications of IT Application of IT in homes and the office Module 7: Emerging Trends in IT (9 hours) E-commerce Teleconferencing Wireless Integration