Course Name Fundamentals of Computing

Course Code DCS 1101

Semester 1
Lecturer Lucy Wangui
Time 12-3pm
Day of the week Friday

1. Course objectives
To introduce the student to the understanding of the:
a) Overview of computers
b) Operating systems and its environment
c) Networks and Telecommunications
d) Internet and World Wide Web
e) Emerging technologies
f) Importance of Computer security
2. Detailed course content

Week Subject Area Discussion Topic Assignment/ reading

1 Introduction to
computers
2 Computer Hardware
3 Computer Memory
4 Computer architecture
5 Computer Software
6 Operating Systems
7 Continuous Assessment Test
8 and 9 Emerging technologies
10 and Network and
guide
History of computers, Computer
numbering system, computer
classifications, characteristics of
computer, uses of computers
Input and output devices
Memory hierarchy; Primary and Write up on solid state
Secondary memory storage devices, measuring
and improving disk
performance
System unit, Processors and their Read on overview of a
variants, processor processing CPU
cycle, CISC vs RISC architecture
Types of computer software, utility Read on operating system
software installation i.e. dual booting
Windows and Linux
operating systems
Types of operating systems,
functions of operating system
Windows Vs Linux Vs Mac
Utility computing, cloud
computing, clustering, mobile
technologies etc.
Types of networks, network Write up on Internet and
11 Telecommunications protocols and devices, WWW, Read on types of
telecommunication technologies, browsers
internet technologies
12 Computer Security Understanding the need for Write up on computer
(Protecting your privacy, security measures and security protective
your computer and your Taking protective measures measures
data)
13 Self study and revision
14 Self study and revision
15 Revision and exams End of semester exam

3. Most learning will take place through activities that you will perform and will take
the form of :
 Research Assignments
 Discussions
 Brainstorming sessions (Q&A)
 Facilitated discussions
4. Course Evaluation
Class attendance 5%
Mid semester examination 20%
Assignments 5%
Final Examination 70%
5. Course text and recommendation reading
a) Norton P. (2006) Introduction to computers. New Delhi: Tata McGraw-Hill
Technology Education ISBN 978-0-07-297890-2.
b) Rainer, R. Kelly (2009). Introduction to Information Systems. New Jersey: John
Wiley & sons.
c) Jain M. and S. Jain (2009) Data communication and networking. (Updated
edition) New Delhi: BPB Publishers.
d) Websites: howstuffworks.com
e) Journals