Computer Fundamentals
- DE&GS
- 100 level
- 3 credit units
- 326 pages
- 10 units
This course introduces fundamental computer concepts. It covers basic definitions, historical development, and classifications of computers. Students will learn about hardware and software components, including the system unit, peripheral devices, and auxiliary equipment. The course also explores computer programming principles, flowcharts, algorithms, and various programming languages. Additionally, it addresses computer viruses, their transmission, detection, and prevention. The course aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of computer fundamentals.
About this course
- Difficulty
- Beginner
- Study hours
- 96 hours
- Maths
- None
- Content
- Theoretical, practical
- Practical work
- Yes
- Assignments
- Tutor Marked Assignments
- Final Examination
What you'll read
The real module and unit structure of GST103, taken from the course material NOUN publishes.
One paragraph, so you can see how it reads
GST103 · UNIT 1: WORD PROCESSING
Information: Is referred to as processed data or a meaningful statement e.g. Net pay of workers, examination results of students, list of successful candidates in an examination or interview etc.
What you should be able to do
- Define basic computer concepts and terminology.
- Describe the historical evolution of computers.
- Classify computers based on different criteria.
- Identify and explain the functions of hardware and software components.
- Understand the principles of computer programming.
- Develop algorithms and flowcharts for simple problems.
What it prepares you for
- Data Entry Clerk
- Technical Support Assistant
- Office Assistant
- Computer Operator
- Education
- Business Administration
- Government Services
- Healthcare Administration
Where it gets hard
The units students slow down on, and what makes each one heavy.
- Module 2: Computer Hardware and Software
Unit 1: Hardware Components (1)
Understanding the intricacies of memory management requires grasping complex hardware-software interactions.
- Module 3: Computer Programming
Unit 3: Flowchart and Algorithms
Translating real-world problems into structured algorithms and flowcharts demands strong analytical skills.
A suggested way through it
13 weeks, about 28 hours in total. Yours will differ.
- Week 1Module 1: Introduction to Computers
Unit 1: Basic Concepts · 2 hours
Define computer and its characteristics.. Understand data processing methods: manual, mechanical, and computer.. Identify the components of a computing system: hardware, software, users, and environment..
- Week 2Module 1: Introduction to Computers
Unit 2: Historical Overview of the Computer · 2 hours
Trace the evolution of computer technology from early devices to modern computers.. Describe the key features of each computer generation: first to sixth.. Discuss the impact of integrated circuits and parallel processing..
- Week 3Module 1: Introduction to Computers
Unit 3: Classification of Computers · 2 hours
Classify computers based on signal type: digital, analog, and hybrid.. Distinguish between special-purpose and general-purpose computers.. Categorize computers by capacity: mainframe, mini, and microcomputers..
- Week 4Module 1: Introduction to Computers
Unit 4: Computer Virus · 2 hours
Define computer virus and its properties.. Identify modes of transmission of computer viruses.. Learn methods for detecting and preventing virus infections..
- Week 5Module 2: Computer Hardware and Software
Unit 1: Hardware Components (1) · 2 hours
Identify essential hardware components of a computer system.. Describe the functions of the system unit, including front, back, and inside components.. Differentiate between primary and secondary memory types..
- Week 6Module 2: Computer Hardware and Software
Unit 2: Hardware Component (2) – Peripheral Devices · 2 hours
Identify various input devices: keyboard, mouse, scanner, etc.. Describe the functions of output devices: printers, monitors, speakers.. Understand the role of peripheral devices in a computer system..
- Week 7Module 2: Computer Hardware and Software
Unit 3: Auxillary Equipment · 2 hours
Identify auxiliary equipment in a computing environment.. Discuss the importance of air conditioners, voltage stabilizers, and UPS.. Understand the role of line voltage transformers..
- Week 8Module 2: Computer Hardware and Software
Unit 3: Computer Software (1) · 2 hours
Differentiate between system software and application software.. Describe the functions of operating systems.. Discuss different types of operating systems: batch, time-sharing, real-time..
- Week 9Module 2: Computer Hardware and Software
Unit 4: Computer Software (2) · 2 hours
Describe language translators: assemblers, interpreters, and compilers.. Discuss utility programs and their functions.. Explain application programs and their categories..
- Week 10Module 3: Computer Programming
Unit 1: Computer Languages · 2 hours
Define computer programming languages.. Trace the evolutionary trends of programming languages.. Understand the basic instruction code..
- Week 11Module 3: Computer Programming
Unit 2: Basic Principles of Computer Programming · 2 hours
Understand the principles of good programming.. Describe the stages involved in computer programming.. Learn about problem-solving methodologies..
- Week 12Module 3: Computer Programming
Unit 3: Flowchart and Algorithms · 2 hours
Understand the principles of flowcharts and algorithms.. Learn to create flowcharts for simple programs.. Develop algorithms for solving basic problems..
- Week 13Final Revision
Final Revision · 4 hours
Review all modules and units.. Work on assignments and TMAs.. Prepare for final examinations..
Preparing for the exam
- Create flashcards for key terms in Units 1-4 (definitions, classifications, components).
- Practice drawing system diagrams from Unit 1 and labeling hardware from Units 5-6.
- Review examples of algorithms and flowcharts from Unit 12, focusing on logic.
- Summarize the main points of each computer generation (Unit 2) in a timeline.
- Focus on understanding the differences between system and application software (Units 7-8).
- Attempt all Tutor Marked Assignments (TMAs) to practice applying concepts.
Questions students ask about this course
What is GST103 about?
This course introduces fundamental computer concepts. It covers basic definitions, historical development, and classifications of computers. Students will learn about hardware and software components, including the system unit, peripheral devices, and auxiliary equipment. The course also explores computer programming principles, flowcharts, algorithms, and various programming languages. Additionally, it addresses computer viruses, their transmission, detection, and prevention. The course aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of computer fundamentals.
How many units does GST103 have?
GST103, Computer Fundamentals, has 10 units across 4 modules, over 326 pages of course material. You can read it one unit at a time.
How many credit units is GST103?
GST103 carries 3 credit units, at 100 level in DE&GS.
Is GST103 hard?
GST103 is rated beginner level, with no mathematical content. It is mostly theoretical and practical work, and it has a practical component.
How long does GST103 take to study?
About 96 hours of study, spread across its 10 units.
How is GST103 assessed?
GST103 is assessed by Assignments, Tutor Marked Assignments and Final Examination.
What can I do with GST103?
Data Entry Clerk, Technical Support Assistant, Office Assistant and Computer Operator.