All of the sections of Com S 103 are entirely online. Students (in sections 1-25) only need to come to the face-to-face orientation session in the first week of the semester that must be registered for through AccessPlus (Login to AccessPlus, click "class schedule", then you will see COMS 103 class, section #, meeting time etc.). Students must attend this orientation training session according to the schedule (orientation location: 109 Pearson Hall). Computer Literacy and Applications via World Wide Web is a four credit course (designed for students with little or no prior computer experience). It focuses on two parts of modern computing - computer literacy and computer applications.

Since it is an entirely online class, you will learn everything mentioned above in WebCT, which is a web-based virtual classroom only accessible to those who enroll in the class. You do not need to come to the lab except for the first week of the orientation session. Every Monday I will post lecture material, simulation programs, a quiz, and a summary of your online activities in WebCT. It is your responsibility to check this information at least once a day, 30-60 minutes each time to explore the material.

Time management is the key to success in this class. The online format allows you to work on your own time and at your own pace in learning the subject contents. It is flexible; however, it also requires your commitment to complete all the assignments. If you follow the schedule, read the textbooks, explore the online material, go through the lectures, turn in homework, and finish the quizzes and examinations on time, your work will be reflected in your grade.

Office 2003 is the software we will use for our class projects. If you don't have access to Office 2003 (Microsoft Word, Excel, Access and PowerPoint Software) on your computer, you can use the labs on campus that have Office 2003 installed, or you may contact your TA for information about how to access the virtual lab (remote desktop connection) from your home computer.

Your familiarization with WebCT is very important in navigating smoothly and effectively in this e-class. We will have a face-to-face orientation session during the first week of the semester. After the orientation training, you will be expected to do all the online parts in WebCT. If you have any questions regarding contents and assignments, you can get help by e-mailing your section TA, or by coming to our face-to-face help desks.

Instructor:  Dr. Shu-Hui (Susan) Chang
Director, Distance Education
Computer Science Department
Iowa state University