Skagit Valley College

Catalog Course Search Details

 Course Title:   Computers, Technology and Society

 Title Abbreviation:   COMPUTERS AND SOCIETY

 Department:    CS

 Course #:    101

 Credits:    5

 Variable:     No

 IUs:    5

 CIP:    110101

 EPC:    n/a

 REV:    2018


 Course Description  

An overview of essential computer and digital technologies impacting society today. Analysis of the history, political events, social impacts and ethical issues surrounding computer technology. Includes an introduction to computer concepts, wireless technologies, security issues, and other current trends. Students will also work hands-on with the Internet, communication software, and typical applications available in a modern Windows environment.

 Prerequisite  

Prerequisite: Grade of 2.0 or higher in ENGL 097, or AESL 098, or appropriate test score.

Additional Course Details

Contact Hours (based on 11 week quarter)

Lecture: 55

Lab: 0

Other: 0

Systems: 0

Clinical: 0


Intent: Distribution Requirement(s) Status:  

Academic Social Sciences  

Equivalencies At Other Institutions

Other Institution Equivalencies Table
Institution Course # Remarks
CWU CS 101
EWU CSCD 101
WSU CptS 105
WWU CS 101

Learning Outcomes

After completing this course, the student will be able to:

  1. Discuss the history of computer technology and the creation of the Information Age
  2. Analyze the positive and negative social objectives created by Information Technology
  3. Make informed decisions as a consumer of Information Technology
  4. Recognize the ethical, legal, and privacy aspects of the Information Age
  5. Use common computer technology appropriately
  6. Use a computer system to:
    • access the Internet
    • create simple word processing documents
    • use an electronic mail system to send and receive messages
    • use an electronic mail system to send and receive files
    • create, store, and retrieve files
    • run general purpose applications such as spreadsheet, database, and/or graphics programs, etc.

General Education Learning Values & Outcomes

Revised August 2008 and affects outlines for 2008 year 1 and later.

1. Information Literacy

Definition: Recognizing when information is needed and have the ability to locate, evaluate, and use effectively the needed information.

Outcomes: Students will be able to . . .
1.4 Evaluate issues (for example economic, legal, historic, social) surrounding the use of information.

10. Technology

Definition: Understanding the role of technology in society and using technology appropriately and effectively.

Outcomes: Students will be able to . . .
10.1 Demonstrate an understanding of the development and impact of technology in human experience (history, global, and local).
10.2 Demonstrate an understanding of legal, ethical, and environmental issues in the use and misuse of technology.
10.4 Demonstrate an understanding of the impact of technology in one’s personal and professional life.

Course Contents

  1. History and roles in society played by Information Technology
  2. Hardware, software, networks, and security elements of Information Technology
  3. Ethical and legal aspects of computer technology
  4. Basic use and operation of a typical personal computer system to include:
    • Internet access
    • word processing
    • other relevant applications
    • file creation and retrieval
    • electronic mail
  5. Impact of Information Technology on the workplace