CISC 100- Introduction to Computers eLearning

E-learning gives you an opportunity to take a college level class, without being on campus regularly.  It requires a student that is motivated and self-disciplined. It is an interesting and fun way to take a class, but don’t be fooled. Expect to work harder than you would in a face-to-face class, and be sure to allot sufficient time.

This course will be taught through Canvas- so you must have Internet access to participate in this course. Your computer must be running Windows 7 and Office 2010. If you do not have Office 2010, you can purchase at a discount online from Microsoft at http://www.microsoftstore.com click Student and you will see a links for special studnet pricing.

If you have an older version of Windows, you should still be ok, although some of the screenshots will be different. If you have a Mac, you can use the newest version of Office (also available from the above link), but again, some things will be different and you will have to figure them out on your own. If you do not have a computer at home, you may work at the college in the library. Personal computer problems are not an acceptable excuse for late work.

Although this course does not have a pre-requisite requirement, it is strongly recommended that you are comfortable using your computer for basic tasks, and can send and receive email. 

COURSE DESCRIPTION

A hands-on course for non-majors dealing with personal computers in a wide variety of settings. Topics include: basic computer concepts, Windows, the Internet and e-mail and the use of personal productivity tools (Office 2010).

College Syllabus

http://www.bucks.edu/academics/courses/syllabus/index.php?lookup=CISC100

TEXTBOOKS AND SUPPLIES

PLEASE NOTE- when you look the books up on the college bookstore website, this appears as three line items- but you only need to purchase the bundle. You will see that the bundle price is discounted. If you choose to purchase your book elsewhere, be aware that you will still need to purchase the SAM access code.

ATTENDANCE & EXPECTATIONS

This is a hands-on class, with much of the material being accumulative. You will need to spend at least as much time on this class as you would if you were taking it in a classroom (if not more).  That means 6-10 hours a week completing readings, assignments and labs. It is imperative that you keep on track with the schedule. 

There will not be an on-campus meeting for this class. The class will be taught using a web-based service called Canvas. You must complete the Start Here learning module within the course space, and read the discussion board orientation.  This is one of the first courses at Bucks using Canvas, so we are going to be learning it together. Canvas is not really difficult to use, but if you need some personal guidance, to make an appointment for one-on-one help, contact the TLC or Online Learning office (see below).

IMPORTANT- You will not have access to this course until 1:00 AM the first day of class. Please let me know ASAP, via email, if you are unable to log in.

EVALUATION

Students will be evaluated on quiz results, labs and other assignments and class participation. (YES, there are still ways to participate, even in a distance learning course!). Assignments will not be accepted more than one week late. It is important that assignments be handed in on time and complete. Extensions and make-ups will only be given under extreme circumstances. Personal computer problems are not an acceptable excuse for late work.

You will submit your work electronically, via Canvas, so plan accordingly.  If you know that you will be away when an assignment is due, work ahead and submit it early- rather than late.  You'll feel better on vacation if it's not hanging over your head anyway! Assignments will not be accepted by email.

POLICIES

Please review the college academic calendar for important dates.

Students are urged to retain all graded work returned to them until final grades have been received from the college. You can print the Canvas Grades page for your records.

Also, students should consult Student Records, Rights, and Responsibilities in the College Catalog concerning important rules governing students in their academic work.

Plagiarism: Plagiarism and other forms of academic cheating are unacceptable and are considered as MAJOR infractions of the Student Code of Conduct and College Policy and will be dealt with as published in the College Catalog.

It is imperative that you attend class regularly. That means logging in to this class at least twice a week. If you are absent more than three weeks total, you will receive an F for the course (except under exceptional circumstances). You are responsible for all missed work. Make-up quizzes may be given at the discretion of the instructor- make sure you contact me BEFORE you miss a quiz.

If there is a need to withdraw from this course, do so officially from the Admissions Office.

If you have a disability and wish to discuss academic accommodations, I encourage you to see me as soon as possible.



Help and Support

There are several ways to access help for Canvas and other technologies used at BCCC:

• Canvas FAQs for students:
  http://support.instructure.com/index.php?title=Main_Page#For_Students.
• Canvas Video Tutorials on YouTube:
  http://www.youtube.com/user/CanvasLMS.
• Technology Learning Centers (TLCs):
  Located on each BCCC campus in the libraries, and online. http://www.bucks.edu/tlc
• Virtual Campus Office - Library 118, Newtown Campus - is open 8:30am to 4:30pm, Monday through Friday. Contact the office by phone at 215-968-8052, via email at learning@bucks.edu, or IM at learningatbucks.

You may contact the instructor via email using the Canvas tool, or by sending regular email to geoghand@bucks.edu or in F122A during posted office hours.