Course Code:
CTS 1131

Credit Hours:
3

Effective beginning:
2023-24

Sections:
000

Course Description:
This course introduces computer hardware components and system software needed to set up, install, configure, upgrade, and maintain a microcomputer system. This course prepares students for a CompTIA A+ Hardware industry certification. This course includes both lecture and structured lab experiences.

Instructors:

Charlie Lynch
lynchc@chipola.edu

Assignment/course outline:

The following topics will be covered in this course at the discretion of the instructor:

• First Look at Computer Parts and Tools
• Working Inside a Computer
• Introducing Windows Operating Systems
• All About Motherboards
• Supporting Processors and Upgrading Memory
• Supporting Hard Drives
• Installing Windows
• Supporting I/O and Storage Devices, Satisfying Customer Needs     
• Maintaining Windows, Optimizing Windows
• Troubleshooting Windows and Applications
• Troubleshooting Hardware Problems
• Troubleshooting Windows Startup Problems
• Connecting to and Setting up a Network
• Networking Types, Devices, and Cabling  
• Windows Resources on a Network
• Security Strategies, Supporting Notebooks
• Mobile Devices and Client-Side Virtualization
• Supporting Printers

See your Instructor First Day Handout for individual instructor assignment schedule.

Discipline-level learning outcomes:

Associate in Science degree in Computer Information Technology Learning Outcomes:

CIT-1 Understand, install, configure, monitor, use, and troubleshoot computer hardware and software. [1.0, 2.0, 3.0, 4.0, 6.0, IT Support 12.0, 13.0]

CIT-2 Understand, install, configure, monitor, use, and troubleshoot network hardware and software. [8.0, 9.0]

CIT-3 Demonstrate general computing workplace competencies, including employability skills, interpersonal & customer service skills, and user support skills. [11.0, IT Support 12.0, 13.0, 14.0, 15.0]

CIT-4 Demonstrate project management skills. [10.0]

CIT-5 Perform database management and design tasks. [7.0]

Associate in Science degree in Network Systems Technology Learning Outcomes:

NST-1 Understand, install, configure, monitor, use, and/or troubleshoot computer hardware and software. [1.0, 3.0]

NST-2 Understand, install, configure, monitor, use, and troubleshoot network hardware and software. [2.0, 4.0]

NST-3 Demonstrate general computing workplace competencies, including employability skills, interpersonal & customer service skills, and user support skills. [5.0, Server Admin 18.0]

NST-4 Demonstrate project management skills. [6.0]

NST-5 Depends on Specialization:

• Server Administration (Program Code 2181): Demonstrate advanced understanding of networked environments and perform network administration activities. [Server Admin Specialization 0-8.0]
• Network/Cybersecurity (Program Code 2182): Demonstrate proficiency in securing networks and data, including performing penetration testing and responding to cybersecurity incidents. [Network/Cybersecurity Specialization 09.0]
• Digital Forensics (Program Code 2183): Demonstrate understanding of forensic casework procedures and perform computer and mobile device forensic investigations. [Digital Forensics Specialization 0-14.0]

Course-level learning outcomes:

Means of accomplishing learning outcomes:

In-Person

The instructor will:

• Lecture and lead class discussions.
• Assign readings from textbooks and/or other sources to supplement lectures.
• Provide supplemental materials that align with the material presented in the textbook as appropriate.
• Design assignments, quizzes, discussions, etc., to help students engage with the course material.
• Use other teaching strategies to assist students in examining and understanding course materials as needed.
• Provide timely feedback on assignments.
• Hold weekly office hours to address questions and student needs outside of class time.

The students will:

• Attend class regularly and be attentive to lectures.
• Engage with class discussion.
• Participate in student discussion groups.
• Read assigned readings.
• Complete assignments, quizzes, discussion boards, etc., as assigned by the instructor.

Online

The instructor will:

• Lead class discussions.
• Assign textbook and/or other readings.
• Provide supplemental materials that align with the material presented in the textbook as appropriate.
• Design assignments, quizzes, discussions, etc., to help students engage with the course material.
• Use other teaching strategies to assist students in examining and understanding course materials as needed.
• Provide timely feedback on assignments.
• Hold weekly virtual office hours to address questions and student needs.

The students will:

• Engage with the course regularly.
• Engage with class discussions.
• Participate in student discussion groups.
• Read assigned readings.
• Complete assignments, quizzes, discussion boards, etc. as assigned by instructor.