CPT 115: Introduction to Data Processing
Online Course - Summer 2008

Dear Student:

Welcome to Introduction to Data Processing! This course is a general introduction to the concepts of computer systems. Included are a study of the evolution of the electronic computer industry, major hardware components of a computer system, software applications, an overview of systems analysis and design, and an introduction to major computer languages. Visual Basic for Applications (Microsoft Office) is used to complete three projects. If you do not have Microsoft Office you may complete the projects in the computer lab (TECH 116) using Office or Visual Basic 6.0 programming language.

The course includes three components, a Midterm Exam, and a Final Exam for determining your grade. The first component is Chapter Exams. The second component is Laboratory Assignments using Shelly Cashman’s Internet site. The third component is Visual Basic Projects using Microsoft Office. WebCT is used for informing the student of their grade status and assignments and for reviewing class lectures (which use PowerPoint Viewer). If you do not have Microsoft Office, you may download the viewer from the course menu. This will all be explained in the indoctrination class.

The online nature of this course is designed to give you a great deal of time and place flexibility in taking this course. It does require a great deal of self-discipline on your part to do the required work without having scheduled class. We will use the computer and Internet for most of our interaction and exchanges, so you will need a computer able to access the Internet throughout the semester. I will not be available for a face-to-face meeting, but am always available by phone or e-mail (see bottom of page).

You must review the online orientation, in order to be sure you know how to access and navigate WebCT/Blackboard, the online software. The midterm review and exam will be completed online. Visual Basic, can be done in one of three ways but you must have the PowerPoint Viewer to complete the projects. The first is to use Excel and my step by step instructions to complete three projects. The second is to use Word and my step by step instructions to complete three projects. The third option is to complete the projects in the computer lab (Tech 116).

Final: Wednesday, July 30 - TECH 112 - 3 p.m.

You may order the text for the class from the bookstore either in person, by telephone, or online via computer: www.stchas.edu/bookstore.

WebCT/Blackboard courses will not be available to students until five days prior to the start of the semester.

Charles Wood BGS, MS.
Computer Science Instructor
636-332-0365
cwood@stchas.edu
cwood@centurytel.net.