TEC 923: Introduction to Computers for                Teachers

Course Description

Tailored for the computer novice, this course provides the background, concepts and basic skills needed to become a productive and confident computer user. Easy to understand explana- tions, illustrations and step-by-step hands-on exercises make "Introduction to Computers for Teachers" a painless way to learn the basics. The course progresses from "Where is the ON switch?" and "How does the Internet work?" to producing letters, graphics and spreadsheets. The presentation is logical and easy to follow. Extensive glossary, history and an educational perspective adds depth and meaning. Both Macintosh and Windows are covered in the course workbook, accompanying CD-ROM and supplemental text.

NOTE: This course does not currently support Mac OSX 10.7 (Lion), OSX 10.8 (Mountain Lion), OSX 10.9 (Mavericks), or OSX 10.10 (Yosemite)

Primary Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the course participants shall:

• Value the role of technology as an instructional and learning tool.
• Review the terms and concepts of computers and computer operations.
• Be introduced to different types of productivity software.
• Gain hands - on experience:
    Working with various features in word processing documents
    Manipulating simple spreadsheets
    Creating graphics utilizing basic Paint tools and techniques
• Reflect on how computer- aided instruction can enhance teaching practices, assist in classroom management, and affect student learning and achievement.
• Have the opportunity to link ISTE standards to technology-based curriculum.

Standards Based Instruction

Assignments contained within this course meet several important proficiency guidelines as defined by ISTE (International Society for Technology in Education) in their NETS (National Educational Technology Standards).                 SEE MORE

Course Materials

Workbook: "Introduction to Computers for Teachers" by Steve Young.

CD-ROM: Containing supplemental readings, files and demonstration software (ClarisWorks v.4-5). The demo software is provided in the event you haven't access to a productivity suite, or if the one available hasn't all the features or tools that are required to complete an assignment. The demo software works with Windows 95, 98, ME, 2000, XP and Macintosh. It has its constraints inasmuch as the 'Help' menu is not accessible, it does not allow you to save your 'works in progress' and all documents created with the demo software, when printed, will have the watermark CLARISWORKS TRIAL appear across each page.

Textbook: Maran, "Illustrated Computers", MaranGraphics, Thompson Technology, 2005. The text is supplemental, and excluded with partial materials.

Minimum System Requirements

Access to a printer (black & white will suffice)
CD-ROM drive

PC with Windows XP through Windows 8
or
Mac with OSX 10.1 through 10.6 ( will not run on OSX Lion or Mountain Lion)

Course Requirements

Assignments (24 total for a maximum of 100 points):
• Pre-course teacher survey (5 points)
• "Parts of a Computer" (5 points)
• "Inside Your Computer" (5 points)
• "Treasure Hunt" (5 points)
• Read & respond - "The Promise of Technology for Teachers" (20 points)
• Word processing - 6 assignments (4 points each for a total of 24 points)
• Spreadsheets - 2 assignments (4 points each for a total of 8 points)
• Graphics - 4 assignments (3 points each for a total of 12 points).
• Internet / e-mail assignments (4 points each for a total of 12 points).
• Standards Survey and Correlation Chart (1 point each for a total of 2 points)
• Post-course teacher survey (2 points)
• Complete and return the course evaluation

Schedule of Topics and Assignments

Section 1. Survey #1 - Pre-course teacher survey
Section 2. Computer basics
Section 3. Parts of a computer
Section 4. Inside your computer
Section 5. Treasure hunt
Section 6. Background reading
Section 7. Short answer responses
Section 8. Word processing
Section 9. Spreadsheets
Section 10. Computer graphics
Section 11. The Internet
Section 12. E-mail
Section 13. Standards survey
Section 14. Standards correlation chart
Section 15. Survey #2 - Post-course teacher survey
Section 16. Course evaluation

Grading Scale

Letter grades, should one be requested, will be on the following scale:

90% -100% = A 80% - 89% = B or ‘Credit’ 79% or below = ‘No Credit’

Participants striving for an ‘A’ should demonstrate the ability to follow directions, neatness and pride in their work, thoughtfulness in responses to all written assignments, and consider completing the 'Extra Credit' portions of assignments when the opportunity presents. Creativity, although appreciated, is not requisite to the awarding of an ‘A’ in the course. Students taking the course for credit are expected to adequately complete all required assignments.

Evidence of Learning

Students will be evaluated on the ability to follow directions as described in the workbook to complete assigned projects which demonstrate mastery of the tools and techniques. Written assignments should contain thoughtful, reflective responses applicable to their personal and/or professional experiences which indicate they have put thought and effort in to their replies.

Instructor/Student Contact

FPU advises their instructors that some districts across the nation require a minimum of three contacts between the instructor and course participant be required as part of the course assignments. These can be via e-mail or phone. Please check with your district regarding this issue. If your district is one which requires this, please e-mail me for further instructions.

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