Course Objectives
- To introduce students to the foundational concepts of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and its applications in modern society.
- To familiarize students with computer system components, operating systems, data communication, and network concepts.
- To develop basic skills in using and configuring common computer software and hardware.
- To enhance understanding of how ICT impacts various sectors and the role of emerging technologies like IoT, AI, and cloud computing.
- To provide hands-on experience with common computing tools and technologies.
Course Learning Outcomes (CLOs)
By the end of the course, students should be able to:
- CLO 1: Identify and explain the basic concepts of ICT and its significance in daily life and various industries.
- Mapped to PLOs: PLO-1 (Engineering Knowledge)
- CLO 2: Differentiate between computer hardware and software components, including understanding input, output, and storage devices.
- Mapped to PLOs: PLO-1 (Engineering Knowledge), PLO-2 (Problem Analysis)
- CLO 3: Demonstrate familiarity with basic operating systems (e.g., Windows) and essential functionalities, including file management and configuration of peripherals.
- Mapped to PLOs: PLO-1 (Engineering Knowledge), PLO-5 (Modern Tool Usage)
- CLO 4: Describe different types of networks and communication systems and their applications in data transmission.
- Mapped to PLOs: PLO-1 (Engineering Knowledge), PLO-3 (Design/Development of Solutions)
- CLO 5: Recognize and explain the impact of emerging technologies such as Cloud Computing, IoT, AI, and their relevance in ICT.
- Mapped to PLOs: PLO-6 (The Engineer and Society), PLO-7 (Environment and Sustainability)
- CLO 6: Apply basic troubleshooting skills in a lab setting, working with ICT tools and practicing problem-solving techniques for common technical issues.
- Mapped to PLOs: PLO-2 (Problem Analysis), PLO-5 (Modern Tool Usage), PLO-9 (Individual and Team Work)
Program Learning Outcomes (PLOs)
PLO-9 (Individual and Team Work): Function effectively as an individual and as part of a team to accomplish common goals.Course Outline
PLO-1 (Engineering Knowledge): Apply knowledge of mathematics, science, engineering fundamentals, and computer science to solve complex engineering problems.
PLO-2 (Problem Analysis): Identify and analyze engineering problems, including defining problem requirements and specifications.
PLO-3 (Design/Development of Solutions): Design solutions that meet specified needs within engineering contexts.
PLO-5 (Modern Tool Usage): Use appropriate techniques, skills, and modern computing tools for ICT and engineering practices.
PLO-6 (The Engineer and Society): Evaluate the impact of engineering solutions in societal and global contexts.
PLO-7 (Environment and Sustainability): Understand the need for sustainable engineering solutions and evaluate the impact on the environment.
Week 1: Introduction to ICT and Computing
- Learning Goals: Understand ICT basics, significance in modern society, and the evolution of computing technology.
- Classroom Activity: Lecture on ICT’s role in various sectors, brief on course structure, and an overview of historical milestones in computing.
- Lab Activity: Explore Windows OS, desktop navigation, and common OS functionalities.
- Assignment: Write a 1-page reflection on how ICT impacts daily life, citing specific examples.
Week 2: Overview of Computer Systems
- Learning Goals: Recognize and understand basic computer components, including hardware and software types.
- Classroom Activity: Lecture on hardware vs. software, system vs. application software, and examples.
- Lab Activity: Identify and label hardware components and understand system properties (e.g., RAM, processor).
- Assignment: Create a labeled diagram of a typical computer system with explanations of each component.
Week 3: Types of Computers and Their Applications
- Learning Goals: Differentiate between various types of computers and their applications in real-world contexts.
- Classroom Activity: Discuss the features and uses of personal computers, workstations, mainframes, and supercomputers.
- Lab Activity: Compare user interfaces and functionality of various OS (e.g., Windows vs. Linux).
- Assignment: Research and present a real-world application of each type of computer (e.g., supercomputers in weather forecasting).
Week 4: Computer-Based Information Systems (CBIS)
- Learning Goals: Understand CBIS’s role, benefits, and practical applications in data management.
- Classroom Activity: Lecture on CBIS, discussing its significance in decision-making processes within organizations.
- Lab Activity: Basic hands-on with a CBIS software (e.g., Microsoft Access or Excel for database management).
- Assignment: Write a short report on a CBIS application in a field of choice (e.g., health, finance) and its advantages.
Week 5: Input Devices
- Learning Goals: Recognize and differentiate between various input devices and their functionalities.
- Classroom Activity: Introduction to input devices such as keyboards, scanners, touchpads, and voice input technologies.
- Lab Activity: Practice using and configuring input devices like scanners, keyboard settings, and mouse properties.
- Assignment: Create a comparison chart of different input devices, listing applications and limitations.
Week 6: Output Devices
- Learning Goals: Understand different output devices, including monitors, printers, and plotters, and their roles.
- Classroom Activity: Discuss various output devices, including display screens, types of printers, and specialized output devices.
- Lab Activity: Demonstrate setup and configuration of a printer and adjust monitor settings.
- Assignment: Research and report on which output devices are best suited for graphic design and why.
Week 7: Storage Devices
- Learning Goals: Explain storage types, including primary and secondary storage, and differentiate between them.
- Classroom Activity: Overview of storage units, the importance of RAM and cache, and their influence on system performance.
- Lab Activity: Hands-on with external storage devices, organization of files, and demonstration of backup procedures.
- Assignment: Create a detailed comparison table between RAM, cache, and secondary storage (e.g., SSD, HDD).
Week 8: Hard Disks and Optical Storage
- Learning Goals: Understand the working principles of hard disks, optical storage, and their evolution.
- Classroom Activity: Lecture on how hard disks function, characteristics of optical storage media, and data access speeds.
- Lab Activity: Explore the physical components of an external hard drive and practice using CD/DVD burning software.
- Assignment: Develop a flowchart that illustrates the process of data storage and retrieval in hard disks.
Week 9: Midterm Exam
- Activity: Review of Weeks 1-8 and Midterm Exam covering all topics discussed so far.
- Assessment: Multiple-choice and short-answer questions covering ICT basics, computer components, input/output devices, and storage.
Week 10: Data Communications and Transmission
- Learning Goals: Grasp the basics of digital and analog data transmission, modems, and communication protocols.
- Classroom Activity: Discuss digital vs. analog transmission, modem functionalities, and examples of each type.
- Lab Activity: Practice network settings, configure modems, and test data transfer speeds.
- Assignment: Research and compare two different data transmission technologies (e.g., Wi-Fi vs. Ethernet).
Week 11: Communication Media and Network Topologies
- Learning Goals: Learn about communication media types (wired and wireless) and common network topologies (star, ring, bus).
- Classroom Activity: Discuss advantages and disadvantages of various topologies and media.
- Lab Activity: Visualize network topologies through diagrams; configure sample topologies virtually.
- Assignment: Draw diagrams for each topology and discuss a scenario where each might be used effectively.
Week 12: LAN and WAN Concepts
- Learning Goals: Differentiate between LAN and WAN, and understand their real-world applications and functionalities.
- Classroom Activity: Define and explore LAN and WAN architectures, discuss internet infrastructure.
- Lab Activity: Set up a small LAN network in the lab; demonstrate file sharing.
- Assignment: Write a brief report on LAN vs. WAN, listing pros, cons, and specific uses.
Week 13: Internet Services and Web Browsing
- Learning Goals: Develop web browsing skills, understand internet services and use search engines effectively.
- Classroom Activity: Discuss different types of browsers, internet providers, and online services.
- Lab Activity: Practice advanced search techniques, using filters and specific operators.
- Assignment: Compare two popular browsers in terms of features, privacy, and functionality.
Week 14: Cloud Computing and Internet of Things (IoT)
- Learning Goals: Understand the basics of cloud computing and IoT and their growing importance.
- Classroom Activity: Introduction to cloud storage, advantages of cloud computing, and IoT applications.
- Lab Activity: Use cloud storage platforms (Google Drive, OneDrive) for file sharing and data storage.
- Assignment: Write a report on an IoT device, explaining its function and relevance in smart technology.
Week 15: Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) in ICT
- Learning Goals: Gain insight into AI and ML fundamentals and their applications within ICT.
- Classroom Activity: Discuss AI and ML concepts, case studies of AI applications in ICT.
- Lab Activity: Demonstration of AI tools (e.g., image recognition or language processing applications).
- Assignment: Research an AI-driven technology (e.g., chatbots) and explain its impact on ICT.
Week 16: Project Development and Final Presentations
- Learning Goals: Apply ICT knowledge in a practical project; demonstrate skills gained throughout the course.
- Classroom Activity: Final project presentations by students, course review, and feedback session.
- Lab Activity: Complete and finalize the semester project; peer-review feedback.
- Assignment: Submit a comprehensive report detailing the project’s purpose, implementation, and results.
Assessment Breakdown
- Midterm Exam: 30 Marks
- Assignments & Quizzes: 10 Marks
- Final Project: 50 Marks (including presentation and written report)
- Class Participation: 10 Marks
This detailed 16-week structure provides a clear roadmap for students to navigate through ICT concepts and technologies while applying their knowledge through hands-on activities and projects.