Discipline: Computer Information Systems Degree Credit  [X]
Non Credit  [ ]
Nondegree Credit  [ ]
Comm Service  [ ]
 

Riverside Community College District
Integrated Course Outline of Record

Computer Information Systems 25


COURSE DESCRIPTION
25 Introduction to Data Communications Units: 3.00
 
Prerequisite(s): CIS 1A: Introduction to Computer Information Systems
Fundamentals of data communications and network concepts. Emphasis on planning, analyzing, designing, and implementing computer communications networks. 54 hours lecture.
 
SHORT DESCRIPTION FOR CLASS SCHEDULE
Introduction to the fundamentals of data communication and network concepts.
 
ADVISORY ENTRY SKILLS
Before entering the course, students will be able to:
  1. Identify the fundamental computer concepts and terminology used for input, processing, output, and storage.

  2. Identify the key features of a variety of software such as operating systems, word processors, spreadsheets, databases, communications and graphics.

  3. Apply the principles of and solve problems with word processing, spreadsheet, database, communications and file management programs.

  4. Create electronic presentations with presentation graphics.

  5. Use the Internet to send electronic messages.

  6. Demonstrate the principles of Internet research.

  7. Understand the principles of computer security, ethics and privacy.

  8. Understand and apply the principles of distance education software.
STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOMES
 Upon successful completion of the course, students should be able to:

1.   Apply the principles of current data communications technology to
      business applications.

2.   Identify the fundamental concepts and terminology used in data
      communications.

2.   Plan, analyze, design and implement computer communications
      networks.
 
COURSE CONTENT
  TOPICS
 
  1. Introduction to Communications
  2. Communication Hardware
  3. Communication Channels
  4. Modulator/Demodulators
  5. Communication Media
  6. Data Transmission Codes and Protocols
  7. Communication Software Packages
  8. Local Area Networks
  9. Wide Area Networks
  10. Value Added Networks
  11. Planning and Analyzing Communication Networks
  12. Designing and Implementing Communication Networks
 
METHODS OF INSTRUCTION
 Methods of instruction used to achieve student learning outcomes may include, but are not limited to:

  • Class lectures/discussions/demonstrations to introduce and reinforce communications software/hardware/channels
  • Videos/films/slides/audio tapes to demonstrate LANs/WANs
  • Pair and small group activities/discussion of the value of networks
  • Class exercises to plan and analyze the present LAN with an eye to improving the design selected for analysis
  • Reports and papers as homework and class reports to broaden the students understanding of present day communication scenarios
  • Handouts to assist and define important terms
  • Cooperative learning tasks where teams of students develop and implement communication suites
  • Individual conferences to assist and work through problems
  • Guest lecturers to broaden student understanding that this is real world and not just classroom discussions
  • Distance Education: Online, Hybrid, and Web Enhanced
 
METHODS OF EVALUATION
 Students will be evaluated for progress in and/or mastery of learning outcomes by methods of evaluation which may include, but are not limited to:

  • Problem solving and testing of how to design/layout/analyze communication hardware/software
  • Oral reports/presentations/performance of design and analysis of communication suites of hardware and software
  • Written reports/presentations of LAN and WAN communication codes/protocols
  • Computer programs and analysis of the software suites of communications software
  • Written assignments to define mastery of the ideas behind communications within a LAN or across a WAN
  • Examinations designed to assess students’ mastery of LAN/WAN communication design
  • Projects to develop an understanding through research of LAN/WAN technologies
ASSIGNMENTS

Required Reading Assignments


Required Writing Assignments


Other Outside-of-Class Assignments
 
COURSE MATERIALS
 All materials used in this course will be periodically reviewed to ensure that they are appropriate for college level instruction. Possible texts include:

  • Peterson, Larry, and Bruce Davie. Computer Networks: A Systems Approach. 3rd ed. San Francisco: Morgan Kaufman, 2003.
08/07
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