CTS1650

Introduction to Networking and Communications

Course Code:
CTS 1650

Credit Hours:
3

Effective beginning:
2023-24

Sections:
001

 

Course Description:
The purpose of this course is to prepare a student to learn and apply the basics of computer networking using common network devices. The course covers the OSI model and industry standards network topologies, IP addressing including subnet masks, and basic network design. This course prepares students for the following industry certifications: CompTIA Network+ and Microsoft Network Fundamentals (MTA). This course includes both lecture and structured lab experiences.

 

Course Details

Prerequisites:

Prerequisite: CTS 1131 or equivalent certifications or consent of department

Corequisite: CTS 1390 or consent of department

 

Instructors:

Charlie Lynch
lynchc@chipola.edu

 

Required textbooks/ course materials:

TestOut Network Pro, ISBN: 9781935080435.

 

Assignment/course outline:

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

  • Introduction to Networking, Networking Standards and the OSI Model 
  • Transmission Basics and Networking Media
  • Introduction to TCP/IP Protocols 
  • Topologies and Ethernet Standards 
  • Network Hardware, Switching, and Routing 
  • Wide Area Networks, Wireless Networking 
  • In-Depth TCP/IP Networking 
  • Virtual Networking and Remote Access, Network Security 
  • Voice and Video Over IP, Troubleshooting Network Problems  Ensuring Integrity and Availability, Network Management

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:

Course-level student learning outcomesDiscipline-level learning outcomesAssessment methods
Synthesize Networking Fundamentals 

CIT-1, CIT-2, CIT-3, NST-1, NST-2, NST-3

Homework, tests, quizzes
Evaluate Network Media, Topologies and Standards

CIT-1, CIT-2, CIT-3, NST-1, NST-2, NST-3

Homework, tests, quizzes
Formulate Network Hardware  

CIT-1, CIT-2, CIT-3, NST-1, NST-2, NST-3

Homework, tests, quizzes
Propose TCP/IP, Routing,  Virtualization, Wide Area Networking  Technologies 

CIT-1, CIT-2, CIT-3, NST-1, NST-2, NST-3

Homework, tests, quizzes
Evaluate Network Security 

CIT-1, CIT-2, CIT-3, NST-1, NST-2, NST-3

Homework, tests, quizzes
Evaluate and Troubleshoot Networks 

CIT-1, CIT-2, CIT-3, NST-1, NST-2, NST-3

Homework, tests, quizzes
Formulate Network Utilities to Optimize Throughput 

CIT-1, CIT-2, CIT-3, NST-1, NST-2, NST-3

Homework, tests, quizzes

 

 

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.

 

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