Introduction to Computers and Computation

Concepts of thinking computationally and the technical tools to function effectively in the digitally-connected world. Hands-on introduction to computers, computation, the Internet, and the basics of computer hardware and software. Students will have experience during the instructed computer lab with a number of software environments including an operating system, a word processor, a presentation tool, a spreadsheet, and a database system. The course will focus on problem solving and programming within the context of a wide range of applications, and prepare students for further study in a variety of majors and minors. In addition, students will acquire the skills needed to learn other similar tools on their own. Two and one-half years of high school mathematics is required.