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AGE202Agricultural Sciences2 Unitsbeginner

Introduction To Computer Science

This course introduces students to the fundamental concepts of computer science. It covers the historical evolution of computers, basic hardware and software components, and their applications in various fields. Students will learn about computer programming languages, problem-solving techniques, and the threats posed by computer viruses. The course aims to provide a solid foundation for further studies in computer science and related disciplines.

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208h
Study Time
13
Weeks
16h
Per Week
basic
Math Level
Course Keywords
Computer ScienceHardwareSoftwareProgrammingApplications

Course Overview

Everything you need to know about this course

Course Difficulty

Beginner Level
Perfect for newcomers to the field
35%
beginner
Math Level
Basic Math
🔬
Learning Type
Hands-on Practice

Course Topics

Key areas covered in this course

1

Computer Hardware

2

Computer Software

3

Operating Systems

4

Programming Languages

5

Algorithms and Flowcharts

6

Visual Basic Programming

7

Computer Security

Total Topics7 topics

Ready to Start

No specific requirements needed

This course is designed to be accessible to all students. You can start immediately without any prior knowledge or specific preparation.

Assessment Methods

How your progress will be evaluated (3 methods)

assignments

Comprehensive evaluation of course material understanding

Written Assessment

tutor-marked assessments

Comprehensive evaluation of course material understanding

Written Assessment

final examination

Comprehensive evaluation of course material understanding

Computer Based Test

Career Opportunities

Explore the career paths this course opens up for you

IT Support Specialist

Apply your skills in this growing field

Computer Technician

Apply your skills in this growing field

Data Entry Clerk

Apply your skills in this growing field

Software Tester

Apply your skills in this growing field

Web Developer

Apply your skills in this growing field

Industry Applications

Real-world sectors where you can apply your knowledge

EducationBusinessGovernmentHealthcareFinance

Study Schedule Beta

A structured 13-week journey through the course content

Week
1

Module 1: Understanding the Computer

6h

Unit 1: Basic Concepts

2 study hours
  • Read the definition of a computer and understand its basic functions.
  • Differentiate between data and information.
  • Identify and compare manual, mechanical, and computer methods of data processing.

Unit 2: Historical Overview of the Computer

2 study hours
  • Trace the historical evolution of computers from early calculating devices to modern electronic computers.
  • Identify the key characteristics of each generation of computers.

Unit 3: Classification of Computers

2 study hours
  • Classify computers based on size, type of signal, and purpose.
  • Distinguish between digital, analog, and hybrid computers.
  • Differentiate between special-purpose and general-purpose computers.
Week
2

Module 2: Computer Hardware

6h

Unit 1: Hardware Components (1)

3 study hours
  • Identify the components of the system unit, including the motherboard, processor, memory, and power supply.
  • Explain the importance of each component to the overall operation of the computer.

Unit 2: Hardware Components (2) – Peripheral Devices

3 study hours
  • Identify and describe the functions of various peripheral devices, such as the keyboard, mouse, monitor, and printer.
  • Explain the role of input and output units in a computer system.
Week
3

Module 2: Computer Hardware

3h

Unit 3: Auxiliary Equipment

3 study hours
  • Identify and describe the functions of auxiliary equipment, such as air conditioners, voltage stabilizers, and UPS systems.
  • Explain the importance of auxiliary equipment in maintaining a stable and reliable computing environment.
Week
4

Module 3: Computer Software

3h

Unit 1: Computer Software (1)

3 study hours
  • Define computer software and explain its role in enabling the computer to perform tasks.
  • Classify computer software into system software and application software.
  • Describe the functions of operating systems and their components.
Week
5

Module 3: Computer Software

3h

Unit 2: Computer Software (2)

3 study hours
  • Discuss the different types of language translators, including assemblers, interpreters, and compilers.
  • Explain the role of utility software in maintaining and enhancing computer operations.
  • Describe various categories of application software and their uses.
Week
6

Module 4: Programming the Computer

3h

Unit 1: Computer Languages

3 study hours
  • Explain the concept of computer programming languages and their evolution.
  • Differentiate between machine language, assembly language, high-level languages, and very high-level languages.
Week
7

Module 4: Programming the Computer

3h

Unit 2: Basic Principles of Computer Programming

3 study hours
  • State the principles of good programming and the stages involved in writing computer programs.
  • Explain the importance of problem definition, algorithm design, coding, debugging, testing, and documentation.
Week
8

Module 4: Programming the Computer

3h

Unit 3: Flowcharts and Algorithms

3 study hours
  • Explain the principles of good programming ethics through flowcharting and algorithms.
  • Use flowchart symbols to represent the steps in an algorithm.
  • Write algorithms and pseudocodes to solve simple problems.
Week
9

Module 5: Computer Application Programming Using Visual Basic

3h

Unit 1: Programming in Visual Basic (1)

3 study hours
  • Work with graphical objects in the Visual Basic environment.
  • Design a project from the application wizard.
  • Use the toolbox to add controls to a form.
Week
10

Module 5: Computer Application Programming Using Visual Basic

3h

Unit 2: Visual Basic Project Window

3 study hours
  • Demonstrate mastery of the Visual Basic programming environment.
  • Use the Project window to manage application components.
  • Use the Properties window to modify control properties.
Week
11

Module 5: Computer Application Programming Using Visual Basic

3h

Unit 3: Creating Menu Applications

3 study hours
  • Identify the steps involved in creating Visual Basic applications with menus.
  • Use the Menu Editor to add menu options and submenus to a form.
Week
12

Module 5: Computer Application Programming Using Visual Basic

3h

Unit 4: Analysing Visual Basic Data

3 study hours
  • Operate in the Code window and write Visual Basic code.
  • Declare data, use variables of different data types, and use operators.
  • Write programs using conditional statements and loops.
Week
13

Module 7: Threats to the Computer

4h

Unit 1: Computer Virus

4 study hours
  • Explain the concept of computer viruses and their mode of transmission.
  • Detect viruses in computers and explain how to prevent them.
  • Clean viruses from a computer installation.

This study schedule is in beta and may not be accurate. Please use it as a guide and consult the course outline for the most accurate information.

Course PDF Material

Read the complete course material as provided by NOUN.

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Study Tips & Exam Preparation

Expert tips to help you succeed in this course

1

Review all module summaries and key terms.

2

Practice writing code in Visual Basic to reinforce programming concepts.

3

Create flowcharts and algorithms for solving problems.

4

Focus on understanding the different types of computer software and their functions.

5

Study the characteristics and prevention methods for computer viruses.

6

Review all Tutor Marked Assignments (TMAs) and their solutions.

7

Create concept maps linking Module 2 hardware components to Module 3 software.

8

Practice past exam questions to familiarize yourself with the exam format.

9

Allocate study time proportionally to the weight of each module in the final exam.

10

Form study groups to discuss challenging concepts and share insights.

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