Tag Archives: IT Fundamentals

IT Fundamentals, Section 2.2: Introduction to Computers – TestOut

Objective: 

This section provides a brief history of computers and explains the basic principles of human-computer interaction. After finishing this section, you should be able to:

• Recall significant developments in the history of modern computing.
• Identify uses of computers in today’s world.
• Identify the basic functions of computers.
• Describe various roles for today’s supercomputers.
• Describe the basic principles of human-computer interaction.

Links:

Key Terms:

  • Input
  • Processing
  • Output
  • Storage
  • Hollerith’s Tabulating Machine
  • Transistor
  • Microchip
  • World Wide Web
  • Smartphone
  • Supercomputers
  • Human-computer Interaction

Topics Discussed:

  • How are modern computers similar to early computers? How are they different?
  • What is the relationship between input, processing, output, and storage?

Assignment:

  1. Access the TestOut Courseware through the provided link.
  2. Study Section 2.2: Introduction to Computers, and complete the 10 question Exam to complete the Section.

Assigned: January 16th, 2024
Teacher Pacing Due Date: January 17th, 2024

IT Fundamentals, Section 1.3 – Technology and Ethics – TestOut

Objective: 

This section introduces various ethical issues associated with computer technology. After finishing this section, you should be able to:

• Describe ethical considerations related to evolving forms of technology, including artificial intelligence, workplace automation, personal privacy, and green computing.
• Identify health and productivity issues related to technology, including ergonomics, blue light exposure, cyberloafing, and employee monitoring.
• Distinguish between the legal and ethical aspects of issues such as security breaches, criminal use of data encryption, and the dark web.
• Discuss the arguments for and against net neutrality.

Links:

Key Terms:

  • Ethics
  • Artificial Intelligence
  • Intellectual Property
  • Dark Web
  • Green Computing
  • Ergonomics
  • Blue Light
  • Cyberloafing
  • Employee Monitoring
  • Net Neutrality
  • Predictive Policing
  • Hacktivism
  • Doxing

Topics Discussed:

  • Why is it important for me to live by a code of ethics?
  • How have I seen technology used for good? How have I seen it misused?
  • To what degree should governments use technology to monitor their citizens?

Assignment:

  1. Access the TestOut Courseware through the provided link.
  2. Study Section 1.2: Technology and Ethics, and complete the 5 question Exam to complete the Section.

Assigned: January 11th, 2024
Teacher Pacing Due Date: January 12th, 2024

IT Fundamentals, Section 1.2 – What Is Information Technology? – TestOut

Objective: 

This section defines three overlapping disciplines: Information Technology, Information Systems, and Computer Science. It then provides a detailed overview of the entire course. After finishing this section, you should be able to:

• Recall key moments in the history of information technology.
• Define Information Technology, Information Systems, and Computer Science.
• Describe why “systems thinking” is important in designing information systems.
• Describe the main objectives of the course.
• Identify new concepts and skills that you will master after completing this course.
• Explain how this course will help you achieve your career goals.
• Conduct online research on a career that interests you in information technology.

Links:

Key Terms:

  • Information Technology
  • Information Systems
  • Computer Science

Topics Discussed:

  • How will understanding IT help me achieve my goals in life?
  • What do I already know about computers? What do I wish I knew?
  • How have advances in technology impacted my own life?

Assignment:

  1. Access the TestOut Courseware through the provided link.
  2. Study Section 1.2: What Is Information Technology?, and complete the 5 question Exam to complete the Section.

Assigned: January 11th, 2024
Teacher Pacing Due Date: January 12th, 2024

Introduction to TestOut Online Learning Platform – Spring 2024

Objective: 

I can access the online textbook and coursework by logging into the TestOut website so I can complete the class assignments and simulation labs.

Links:

TestOut IT Certification Training:  https://www.testout.com/

Topics Discussed:

  • TestOut LabSim online courseware
  • Online Coursework
  • IT Fundamentals

Assignment:

  1. Visit our Google Classroom to receive the link to the TestOut online learning platform.
  2. Follow along with the in-class instructions.

Posted: January 10th, 2024