Summary SCHOOL OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY ,INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTER SCIENCE

INTRODUCTION The computer is fast becoming the universal machine of the twenty-first century. Early computers were large in size and too expensive to be owned by individuals. Thus they were confined to the laboratories and few research institutes. They could only be programmed by computer engineers. The basic applications were confined to undertaking complex calculations in science and engineering. Today, the computer is no longer confined to the laboratory. Computers, and indeed, computing have become embedded in almost every item we use. Computing is fast becoming ubiquitous. Its application transcends science, engineering, communication, space science, aviation, financial institutions, social sciences, humanities, the military, transportation, manufacturing, the extractive industries to mention but a few. Also, early computers were designed to accept numeric data, but over the years computers have been developed to accept not only numeric data, but we also able to process multimedia data – text, audio and video. The combination of computer technology and communications technology gave birth to what is now widely known as Information and Communication Technologies (ICT). ICT has changed the face of virtually all fields of human endeavour, ranging from science to engineering, commerce and industry, international trade, transportation, culture and tourism, education and research, among others. Nowadays, literacy is not only measured by the ability to read and write, but also includes computer literacy. The wave of globlisation which has been largely propelled by the collapse of barriers of distance between nations and peoples in the world as a result of ICT, makes it imperative for the modern man to have at least the basic knowledge of computers. This course is meant to introduce students to the historical evolution of computers, the basic components of computers, and some of its applications in society. COURSE CONTENT This Course Guide tells you what to expect from reading this material. The study of computers is not only of academic importance but is also a universal tool of the twenty-first century. This course, therefore, is a systematic approach to the understanding of computers and their applications. COURSE AIMS The aim of this course is to provide students with the basic understanding of the computer and its applications in everyday life. AGE 202 INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTER SCIENCE 156 COURSE OBJECTIVES The specific objectives of this course are to:  Provide basic understanding of the historical evolution of the computer, types of computers and the classification of computers.  Enable the students to understand the components of the computer – the hardware and software.  Help students to identify the different categories of computer software and their uses.  Introduce students to computer programming with emphasis on the building blocks and stages of programming and writing of computer programs using visual basic.  Enable students to identify and appreciate the areas of application of computers in society, thereby stimulating their thought to regard the computer as a tool for human use rather than a master.  Create awareness at the early stage of the study of computers about the potential threats that computer viruses pose to the smooth operations of computers. WORKING THROUGH THE COURSE This course requires that you spend a lot of time to read. The material though presented in simple language, coherent and in logical sequence, requires diligent study. The material is comprehensive and would require full commitment and dedication to study on the part of the student. You are, therefore, advised to avail yourself the opportunity of attending the tutorial sessions where you would have the opportunity of comparing knowledge with your peers. COURSE MATERIALS You will be provided with the following materials:  Course Guide  Modules  Study units  List of recommended textbooks which will serve as compliments to the course material