An introductory computer survey course

Abstract

This course is designed for students who do not intend to become programmers, but who recognize the important role of the computer and wish to learn how computers are affecting society and how they might use these machines in their careers. The course covers how computers operate, what must be done to develop a computer application, characteristics of successful applications, and the social implications of computer technology.The objectives are (1) to provide understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of computers, (2) enable students to recognize potential computer applications, (3) enable students to communicate effectively with computer programmars and systems analysts, and (4) make students aware of the social implications of computer systems.Most students who enroll in this course are majoring in a social science, fine arts, business, education, or a non-technical liberal arts department. Because this may well be the only technically oriented course taken during their college careers, we point out how what we are learning about computers is pertinent to all areas of rapidly evolving technology.