Information Technology

COMPUTER HARDWARE & OPERATING SYSTEMS A+ (27219)
Grades 10-12; 1 cr.; 36 weeks

The IT Essentials: PC Hardware and Software curriculum provides an introduction to the computer hardware and software skills needed to help meet the growing demand for entry-level information and communication technology (ICT) professionals. The curriculum covers the fundamentals of PC technology, networking, and security, and also provides an introduction to advanced concepts.

Students who complete this course will be able to describe the internal components of a computer, assemble a computer system, install an operating system, and troubleshoot using system tools and diagnostic software. Hands-on labs and Virtual Laptop and Virtual Desktop learning tools help students develop critical thinking and complex problem-solving skills. Cisco Packet Tracer simulation-based learning activities promote the exploration of network and networking security concepts and allow students to experiment with network behavior.

IT Essentials: PC Hardware and Software is a hands-on, career-oriented e-learning solution with an emphasis on practical experience to help students develop fundamental computer skills, along with essential career skills. The curriculum helps students prepare for entry-level ICT career opportunities and the CompTIA A+ certification, which helps students differentiate themselves in the marketplace to advance their careers. In addition, the course provides a learning pathway to the CCNA Discovery and CCNA Exploration curricula.

Upon completion of this course, students will be able to perform tasks related to:

  • Define information technology (IT) and describe the components of a personal computer
  • Describe how to protect self, equipment, and the environment from accidents, damage, and contamination
  • Perform a step-by-step assembly of a desktop computer and install and navigate an operating system
  • Explain and perform preventive maintenance
  • Explain the steps of the troubleshooting process and perform basic troubleshooting
  • Upgrade or replace components of a laptop, printer, or scanner based on customer needs
  • Configure computers to attach to an existing network
  • Implement basic physical and software security principles
  • Apply good communication skills and professional behavior while working with customers
  • Assess customer needs, analyze possible configurations, and provide solutions or recommendations for hardware, operating systems, networking, and security

CISCO DISCOVERY I (27266)
Grades 10-12; 1 cr.; 36 weeks

Networking I will provide the students with a good understanding of how networks function and interact in the real world.  Students can then use what they have learned to design, build, and test their own mini-networks using the lab equipment required for participation in the program.  The HTML-based curriculum focuses on industry standards and the essential elements common to computer networking of all brands and products.  Students will also gain in-depth knowledge of the computer networking industry.  The curriculum uses a 100% web-based instructional format and follow a CISCO I and II scope and sequence.

CISCO DISCOVERY II (27267)
Grades 11-12, 1 cr.; 36 weeks
PREREQUISITE:  Cisco Discovery I

Students will review previous material from Networking I including CISCO I & II and will continue with CISCO Semesters III and IV topics leading to mastery level.  Major areas of instruction will include Local Area Networks (LAN) and Wide Area Network (WAN) switching; Virtual Local Area Network (VLAN); LAN & WAN Design; Interior Gateway Router Protocol (IGRP); Access Lists; network & workstation troubleshooting skills, as well as all CISCO Certified Network Associate Exam-related learning objectives.  Completion of Networking I & II can lead to national certification with the industry revered CCNA certification

INSTRUCTIONAL OBJECTIVES AND/OR GOALS:

  • Configuration and implementation of simple routers and switches in simple networks using various products
  • Configuration and implementation of networks thereby optimizing the networks in terms of factors like bandwidth, response times, reliability, and quality of service
  • Optimize the networks in terms of Network Security and Network Performance
  • Analysis of network related issues and come out with application-oriented solutions for such issues
  • Configuration and installation of a small intranet in a local as well as global aspect.

PROGRAMMING ESSENTIALS – VISUAL BASIC (27122)
Grades 10-12; 1 credit; 36 weeks

The purpose of this course is to give students the general knowledge required to understand many of the general programming concepts required in any programming language. In addition to the general programming concepts, students will gain the ability to design, create, test and debug fully functioning programs using the new Visual Basic .NET language.

Upon completion of this course, students will be able to perform tasks related to:

  • Algorithm Development
  • Variables
  • Arithmetic Expressions
  • Forms and Controls
  • Conditions and Looping
  • Variables and Scope
  • Arrays
  • Object Oriented Programming