Department of Technology

TECH 394 - Tech Computer Applications

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Syllabus

(Last Updated August 26, 2003 )

Catalog Description: The stand alone and integrated application of computer software tools such as spreadsheets, word processors, database management systems, graphics and other productivity software to problem solving contexts specific to the disciplines of Engineering and Technology. Prerequisite: COMS 103 or consent of Instructor.

Text:
Exploring Microsoft Excel 2000 with VBA, Robert Grauer and Maryann Barber, Prentice-Hall, 2001
Exploring Microsoft Access 2000 with VBA, Robert Grauer and Maryann Barber, Prentice-Hall, 2001.

Supplementary Readings/References: Check handouts page regularly!

Accreditation Competencies Identified with this Course:

• Develop effective oral and written communication skills
• Develop critical thinking skills for solving problems in all areas of life.
• Gain an understanding of the properties and applications of basic math concepts, including trigonometry functions, triangles, angles, etc.
• Develop familiarity with computer terminology and knowledge about computers and their use in industry.
• Develop an understanding of the use of computers in the various areas of the construction industry.

Course Objectives: At the completion of this course, the students will possess a working knowledge of:

• Problem solving and presentation skills through increased computer proficiency and productivity related to the student’s area of interest.
• Software applications - Microsoft Word, Excel Spreadsheet, Access Database, and PowerPoint Presentation, within Microsoft Office Professional.
• Advanced skills needed to create solutions to assigned problems.
• How to develop a specific application on a specific piece of software.

Instructor Expectations:

Attendance: Regular and on-time class attendance is required. If you have a legitimate reason for missing a class, please inform the instructor before the class. Students will be responsible for all class materials covered.

Assignment and Projects: The due dates for the individual assignments will be included in each assignment posting. Late assignments will be penalized 10 percent per day for every day they are late. No late assignments will be accepted from 10 days after the due date. You are to work on your own unless otherwise stated.

Submissions: All assignments must be submitted electronically using e-mail attachments. If your e-mail does not support attachments of the size required, sign up on-line for an MSUM e-mail account. You can set your e-mail software to request a receipt indicating that your suvbmission was received. I strongly recommend you keep a back-up copy of all your files in case the attachments don't work properly.

Data Storage: The Technology Department provides the "T" drive for storage of class materials only. We regularly sweep the drive for MPEG, video, andother files that do not relate to class work. Those files will be deleted without proir notice. Course work files will be maintained for at least one month following the end of a term before being deleted. Note that this drive is not secure - other students can access your files. Students who access, modify ,damage or delete files from another student's folder are subject to removal from this class.

Final Projects: The Final Projects will be developed by teams of two or three students. Teams will be assigned by the instructor. Each team will develop a complete application in their field of interest, using the advanced application methods discussed in class. Each team will submit:

• A proposal, defining what they intend their application to do. Each group will make a presentation to the class using PowerPoint.
• A progress report, detailing any problems they have encountered.
• A final report, describing the original problem, explaining the process and any equations used.
• An operations manual explaining how a novice would use their application, in other words - directions.

Each team will demonstrate their project to the class during the final class period. Teams should be prepared to explain the process followed, and the methods used to complete the application. Attendance is required!

 Grading Criteria: (Total Points)                                  Course Evaluation:

Other:

Assistance Available: Students who have disabilities, whether permanent or temporary, limiting their ability to participate in activities, projects and other educational functions of any class are reminded to discuss these special needs with each of their instructors at the beginning of the semester. Accommodations will vary with the needs of the student. Some examples include adaptive testing, note taking, taped texts, and special seating arrangements. Students are also reminded that in the event of an emergency building evacuation, if they have disabilities that prohibit them from moving down stairwells, they should move to the nearest stairwell landing from where the Moorhead Fire Department can provide for their evacuation. Any student wanting additional information regarding disability services, clarification of policy, or simply a chance to discuss concerns related to a disabling condition may call or stop by the office of Disability Services, located in Comstock Memorial Union, Room 222.