IB ITGS Syllabus

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Paul Bui
E-mail: BuiEmail.bmp
Phone: 703.228.6200 (ask for the call to be forwarded to Mr. Bui)
Website: http://www.paulbui.net/wl/IB_ITGS

Description

In this course we will study and evaluate the impact of information technology (IT) on individuals and society. We will explore the advantages and disadvantages of using IT on the local level as well as the global. Students will complete a variety of class activities, discussions, and writing assignments to facilitate their understanding of the course material.

Organization

Class time will comprise of lectures, hands-on labs, research, discussion, and writing. The course will be structured such that all assignments, materials, and resources may be found on the course website.

Grades will follow the following guidelines. Please make note of the grading scale because grades will not be rounded up.

Grade Weights
Grade Scale

60%    Labs & Assignments
20%    Tests & Quizzes
10%    Discussion / Participation
10%    Class Performance

A    90 – 100
B    80 – 89.999999
C    70 – 79.999999
D    60 – 69.999999
E    0 – 59.999999

Labs & Assignments

Labs are a fundamental part of this course because they will give students hands-on experience with the following IT systems:

  • Basic hardware & networking
  • Databases & spreadsheets
  • Word processing & desktop publishing
  • Images, sound, & presentations
  • Modelling & simulations
  • Tutorials, training, & wizards
  • The Internet
  • Personal & public communications mediums
  • Robotics, artificial intelligence, and expert systems

At the beginning of the year, students will indicate their experience levels so that we may skip unnecessary labs. All lab assignments will be posted on the course website, along with detailed instructions and due dates. I am available for help during 1st lunch or after school upon request. Labs may also be completed on a home computer.

Throughout the course, we will be researching various IT topics and their social significance, which requires that students be well-read in various IT areas. We will make heavy use of Internet resources, periodicals, and etc. Students will present, discuss, and write responses on each others’ research

Late assignments will be accepted with a grade penalty of 5% each day, after the due date.

Tests & Quizzes

There will be tests and quizzes throughout the year. Makeup quizzes are allowed provided that there is an excused absence. Tests and quizzes will be structured similarly; quizzes however will be shorter in length. Tests will generally be given after the completion of each major unit.

Class Performance

Students are expected to discuss topics and concepts during both whole-class discussions and small group discussions. When we are working on a lab or assignment, students are to stay on task by either working on their assignment, or by assisting another student with their assignment. Tardiness and unexcused absences will take away from class performance.

Topics

The aforementioned IT systems will be discussed, focusing on the following issues and areas of impact:

Social & Ethical Issues

Areas of Impact

  • Business and employment
  • Education
  • Health
  • Arts, entertainment, and leisure
  • Science and the environment
  • Politics and government

Textbook & Supplies

The class does *not* have an official textbook; however, we will be using many on-line resources.

Students are recommended (*not required*) to purchase a USB flash drive to transport files to and from different computers. They can be used to store work for all classes, and generally cost less than $20.

Students are *not* required to have a computer or access to the Internet at home; however, they will be expected to be able to access the Internet using other means (school, library, etc.).

Lab Schedule

If you wish to schedule time in the lab during lunch or after school, please e-mail or come talk to me.

Expectations

Students are expected to follow the Acceptable Use Policy (http://www2.apsva.us/aps/lib/aps/_shared/School%20Board%20Policies/45-2.1_Acceptable_Use.PIP.pdf) as well as other school policies

Lab Etiquette

  • Please arrive on time
  • Be mindful of your neighbors’ workspace
  • During work time (not quiz/test time), you are encouraged to work with others, but please DO NOT do their work
  • Please do not spin in the chairs or lean too far back or the desks will be marred
  • No food or drink
  • Keep the lab clean – no trash!
  • The lab is used by 6 classes, so please leave it in the same condition or better when class is over
    • Clean up the workspace
    • Straighten the keyboard and mouse
    • Push in the chairs

Infractions will be followed by warnings, lunch detention, after-school detention, Saturday detention, or by an administrative referral and parent/guardian conference

Agreement Signature

Please sign below and return this page to Mr. Bui to indicate that you read and understand the course’s policies and expectations.

________________________________
Student’s name (Please print)

________________________________
Student’s signature / date

________________________________
Parent’s/Guardian’s name (Please print)

________________________________
Parent’s/Guardian’s signature / date