Information Systems Technology

This course addresses information and technological literacy in the digital age. Students will develop cognitive and technological competencies in both the discovery and evaluation of information, as well as the creation and dissemination of content, all within a digital context. Students will be introduced to a set of basic digital tools, but the focus will be placed on developing the ability to adapt to new and changing technologies in the future.

This course provides step-by-step progression, with detailed explanations and many illustrations, from the basic of mathematical functions and operations to the design and use of such techniques as codes, indicators, control-breaks, arrays, pointers, file updates, report handling, data structures, and object-oriented programming. The tools of problem solving, including decision tables and trees, structure charts, IPO charts, algorithms, and flow-charts are demonstrated and explained. Throughout the course, typical business problems are presented for solutions, providing excellent experience for the students.

This course provides both a theoretical and a hands-on, detailed, progressive examination of personal (PC) computer system hardware, both stand alone personal computers and distributed-data/networking hardware. Throughout the course, the concepts discussed, and the hardware-related problems presented for discussion and solution, are typical of the knowledge required to work with personal and business-world computer hardware applications, providing excellent experience for the students.

PREREQUISITE: ISTC1010 This course provides students with an introductory and general examination of computer-based systems and users as they exist throughout the world. A particular focus of this course is providing students with an overview of information technology, as it exists in both the developing as well as the developed world. To this end, students will examine computer use trends, industry trends, economic and resource patterns, employment trends and cultural patterns that affect or are affected by information technology.

PREREQUISITE: ISTC1010 This course introduces the student to the world of the Internet. The course will focus on the effective and efficient use of the Internet to find and evaluate quality resources, communicate and collaborate using appropriate tools, create HTML files, and examine issues such as privacy, security and safety.

This course provides discussion and analysis of current issues related to the management of information systems. The components of an information system; hardware, software, data, connectivity, procedures and people are discussed in relationship to a variety of information systems including collaboration information systems, social media information systems, and enterprise wide systems such as Enterprise Resource Planning, Customer Relationship Management and Supply Chain Management. Other major areas of analysis include cloud computing, business intelligence, and the Systems Development Life Cycle. The focus of the analysis is using Information Systems to gain a competitive advantage in the marketplace.

PREREQUISITE: ISTC2008, ISTC1010, ENGL2030 This course focuses on the design, development, and evaluation of distance learning systems and technology related technology support. An introduction to instructional design theory as it relates to distance learning will be included. Additionally, this course will include development of training materials and examination of technology tools needed to support eLearning.

PREREQUISITE: ISTC1025 This course provides students with an introductory examination of computer-based networked environments. Of particular interest in this course is providing students with both a conceptual as well as an applied understanding of networks and networking. Students will be introduced to the organizational framework in which networking exists. Additionally, students will have the opportunity to explore networking on practical and applied levels so that issues such as hardware and software solutions and applications, as they relate to networked environments, will be examined.

PREREQUISITE: ISTC1010 This course provides the basic knowledge required to operate and use a computer to perform the practical tasks of data file creation, retrieval of data and maintenance of data files. DBMS's are used for all types of applications involving medium-to-large scale data files. Major focus is on the acquisition of a working knowledge of the theories, principles and operating procedures of data base management systems using a representative DBMS. This course is appropriate for all potential users of computers in all fields of study.

PREREQUISITE: ISTC1010 In this course, the features and operations of centralized, decentralized and distributed systems are examined. Implications of hardware, software and communications are discussed in relationship to the design, development and implementation of communication systems. Industry-wide standards, protocols and architectures are discussed within the context of enterprise wide systems.

PREREQUISITE: ISTC1005 AND ISTC1010 This course provides students with an introduction to and overview of those fundamental legal issues that are pertinent to the acquisition and deployment of information technology. Students will be given an overview of local, federal and international legal systems and their relationship to intellectual, civil and criminal legal principles as they apply to information technology.

This course offers a comprehensive analysis of Web sites. Emphasis will be on the development of interactive web pages and the interpretation of data gathered from visitors for presentation to web site owners. Web sites will be loaded on to a network and evaluated for functionality, effectiveness and delivery of data exchange. The emphasis of this course is to produce dynamic, interactive web pages that will integrate with databases.

This course offers a comprehensive investigation of the duties and responsibilities of an Information Technologist. Four areas of concern for the IT specialist in this capacity are: Help Desk support, Web Page Support, Training and Development and Customer/Service Relationships. During this course, the student will participate in the on campus Student to Student Help Desk.

PREREQUISITE: ISTC1021, ISTC1005, ISTC1010 This course is an introduction to the interdisciplinary field of human-computer interaction (HCI). The study of HCI focuses on the interaction between users and their computer systems. The course also examines the implications and effects of human-computer interaction in and for society; conversely, the course explores ways that society influences human-computer interactions. Analysis of interface design will be included, in the context of evaluation and evolution of usability.

PREREQUISITE: ISTC1021 This course introduces the student to computer programming using the COBOL (Common Business Oriented Language) programming language. The conventions of the language, its applications and applications-related advantages and disadvantages are presented. The course develops the student's proficiency in understanding and applying the problem-solving logic, methods and procedures of programming in this language, and of programming in general. This course is appropriate for all potential users of computers in business-related fields of study.

PREREQUISITE: ISTC1010 Case Studies Using Advanced Excel is designed to provide students with advanced Excel applications requiring analytical skills. This course will require application within a variety of both profit and non-profit situations and will focus on problem solving and critical thinking with Excel. Excel skills incorporated into case studies will include, but are not limited to: Pivot tables and charts, VLOOKUP, IF,AND,OR formulas, Text-to- Columns, and the Concatenate function. Other software, for which Excel serves as a basis, may also be covered. Cross-listed with ADMG3025

PREREQUISITE: ISTC2045, ISTC1005, ISTC1010 An introduction to content the student needs to create effective and interactive Web sites. Discover the integration of Web authoring tools and XHTML, HTML, Cascading Style Sheets (CSS) and web site design best practices to promote a successful site. This course will use the latest scripting language for websites. Revisit topics of ISTC2008 Intro to Cyberspace and introduce more advanced techniques involving hyperlinks, embedded objects, and multimedia activity in the web site.

This course provides a hands-on, step-by-step, progressive examination of the Linux/UNIX operating system. The student will explore Linux/UNIX commands, the various shells used in Linux/UNIX, and some of the applications available in Linux/UNIX, including X Windows and a variety of productivity applications (word processing, spreadsheet program(s), data base management system program(s) et al). Throughout the course, OS-related problems presented for solution are typical of personal and business-world applications of the OS, providing excellent experience for the students.

PREREQUISITE: ISTC2030 This course builds on the foundation knowledge of ISTC2030 Networking. The content will help the student design, install, maintain and administer networks with confidence. Networking is an extraordinarily complex topic that is evolving daily, requiring skills to evaluate and compare new technologies; this course offers the student a framework for success in network topologies.

PREREQUISITE: ISTC1021 This course introduces the student to computer programming using the cross-platform Java programming language. The conventions of the language, its applications and applications-related advantages and disadvantages are presented. Students will be introduced to the concepts and techniques of Object-Oriented Programming (OOP).

PREREQUISITE: ISTC1005, ISTC1021, ISTC2045, ISTC1010 This course focuses on an investigation and application of advanced data base concepts including data administration, data base technology and selection and acquisition of data base management systems (DBMS). It includes an in-depth practicum in data modeling and system development in a data base environment.

This course introduces the student to computer programming using the cross-platform Python programming language. The conventions of the language, its applications, and its applications-related advantages and disadvantages are presented. Students will be introduced to concepts and techniques of Object-Oriented Programming (OOP).

PREREQUISITE: ISTC1021, ISTC1005, ISTC2021, ISTC2045, ENGL2030, ISTC1010 This course is an overview of the systems development life cycle and its use in analyzing and designing systems. It includes concepts of project roles, cost estimates, documentation (deliverables), tools and techniques for management of processes and communications.

A field experience in an information systems position, supervised by a field supervisor as well as college faculty. The internship is designed to increase understanding of IST and the IST-related issues and perspectives as they relate to the business and social environment.

PREREQUISITE: ISTC4042 This comprehensive capstone course provides students with an opportunity to develop an individual and group project demonstrating their Information Technology and project management skills. Students will examine emerging technologies and their implications for IT, refine their presentation skills and research Information Technology related issues.

This course focuses on the need for businesses and individuals to protect their information assets. In an era where every device is connected to the internet, cybersecurity and privacy are more critical than ever. Topics include the need for businesses to protect the integrity of their data and proprietary information. Additionally, the risk assessment process and techniques utilized to mitigate risk are discussed in detail.

The uses of social computing systems have significantly impacted the ways businesses and individuals function and communicate. This course examines the types of social computing systems including social media and collaborative information systems within the context of the business enterprise. The use of these systems for effective decisions making and strategic thinking will be examined in detail.

This course provides a comprehensive look at cloud computing by focusing on the cloud service models of Software as a Service (SaaS), Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS) and Business Processes as a Service (BPaaS). Cloud computing allows both small and large organizations to dynamically scale their computing resources. The implications of cloud computing on corporate IT infrastructure, collaboration, security, and privacy will be discussed.

This course provides coverage of legal and ethical issues pertaining to the management, governance, and use of information systems. Intellectual property, copyright, privacy, digital access and rights are just a few of the topics included. Ethical decision making within an Information Systems environment will be addressed through the case study approach.

PREREQUISITE: ISTC3034 This course incorporates the use of object oriented programming languages such as Python and Java to develop solutions based on organizational needs assessments. Effective analysis will result in the subsequent design of object oriented solutions. Prereq: ISTC3034 Programming in Java, or transfer equivalent or work experience.

PREREQUISITE: ISTC2045 This course focuses on the collection, analysis, and utilization of data. Because of the size and complexity of the data, tools for statistical analysis will be utilized. Topics include modeling, key performance indicator identification, and data visualization. Use of data analytics for strategic decision making and actionable insights across the organization will be discussed. Statistical software such as SPSS or SAS and web analytical tools such as Google Analytics may be incorporated as well as the R programming language, a tool for statistics, visualization, and data science. Prereq: ISTC2045 Data Base Mgmt Systems or ISTC3046 Advanced Data Base Mgmt Systems, or transfer equivalent or work experience.

PREREQUISITE: ISTC2021 Organizations must recognize the need to manage Information Systems as a strategic resource. This course will explore the need for corporate vision within the technological environment. It focuses on information system integration and the strategic challenges of the digital world as well as an organization's core competencies, competitive strategies and information systems strategies. Policies and procedures concerning the implementation of information systems are also discussed. Approaches to the effective management of information systems are analyzed using the case study methodology. Prereq: ISTC2021 Management of Information Systems, or transfer equivalent or work experience.

PREREQUISITE: ISTC4042 Analysis of the major components of project management is the focus of this course. The requirements of managing projects locally and across the globe are considered. This course focuses on the organization's need to organize, plan and control projects and their associated costs and resources. Change management as an integral part of the changing dynamic within information systems will be discussed in detail. Topics include the project management life cycle; initiating the project, stakeholder analysis, project roles and responsibilities, planning, controlling, organizational styles and managing expectations. This is a project based course in that students will be required to use the appropriate tools to actively organize and manage a project. Prereq: ISTC4042 Systems Analysis & Design or transfer equivalent or work experience.

This course focuses on the integration and implementation of enterprise information systems. From Customer Relationship Management, Supply Chain Management and Knowledge Management to Business Process Reengineering, the challenges of enterprise wide evaluation and implementation are discussed and analyzed. This course focuses on the technical and managerial aspects of enterprise information systems including Enterprise Resource Planning. Business Process Reengineering is the basis for evaluation of the enterprise wide system requirements and includes the planning, designing, implementing and controlling. Major competitors in the ERP domain will be discussed in detail.

PREREQUISITE: ISTG6020. This capstone experience is meant to provide a synthesizing experience for students. In consultation with a faculty advisor and based on academic and career goals, students will develop a comprehensive applied project, write a comprehensive thesis or take part in a graduate level internship experience. This course will culminate in a final professional presentation.

An optional internship in Information Systems.