2011-2012  -  Computer Engineering  -  Course Syllabus  -  Term 4

Teacher:  Mr. Campbell  E-mail: jeff.campbell@biloxischools.net

Teacher’s Web Site:  www.biloxischools.net/schools/bhs/faculty/jeff.campbell/

Computer Engineering  is a 1 credit, 2 semester course that provide students the opportunity to learn about computer hardware, diagnostic and troubleshooting techniques, preventive maintenance, safety, and environmental concerns.

Objectives:   

§     Identify the names, purpose, and characteristics of system modules.

§     Apply basic procedures for adding and removing field replaceable modules for desktop and portable systems.

§     Identify the names, purposes, and performance characteristics of standardized/common peripheral ports, associated cabling, and their connectors.

§     Identify proper procedures for installing and configuring common Integrated Drive Electronics (IDE), Small Computer System Interface (SCSI), and peripheral devices.

§     Explain procedures to optimize Personal Computer (PC) operations in specific situations.

§     Recognize the issues that must be considered when upgrading a PC.

§     Recognize common problems associated with each module and their symptoms, and identify steps to isolate and troubleshoot the problems.

§     Describe basic troubleshooting procedures and tools, and how to elicit problem symptoms from customers.

§     Demonstrate various safety measures and procedures.

§     Demonstrate environmental protection measures and procedures.

§     Distinguish between popular Central Processing Unit (CPU) chips in terms of their basic characteristics.

§     Identify the types of RAM (Random Access Memory), form factors, and operational characteristics.

§     Identify the most popular type of motherboards, their components, and their architecture (for example, bus structures and power supplies).

§     Explain the purpose of CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide Semiconductor) memory, what it contains, and how and when to change its parameters.

§     Identify basic networking concepts including how a network works.

§     Identify common technologies available for establishing Internet connectivity and their characteristics.

§     Distinguish between the motherboard, processor, and memory components. (IT)

§     Identify printer technologies, interfaces and options/upgrades. (IT)

§     Identify the common types of network cables, their characteristics and connectors. (IT)


Tests and Grades

Grading: A=90-100    B= 80-89    C=75-79    D=70-74    F=Below 70    I=incomplete

Grading follows the policies of Biloxi Public Schools.  Progress reports will be issued at mid-term and report cards will be issued following the end of each term.  The student’s current grades are available via Internet IOD. (http://iod.ssts.com/Home.asp?state=MS)

Test:  Test count 55% of the student’s grade and are given at the end of each unit covered (usually within a two week period).  Daily work counts as another 35% of the student’s grade and each term test counts 10%.

Misc. Projects:  Miscellaneous projects for this class include but are not limited to:

Retesting: Retesting will be available before or after school, to any student that fails a test.  Students are allowed only one attempted retest for each test originally given.  In order to retest, students must attend a re-teach/learning session and complete an assignment/remedial work prior to retesting.   Retesting is not permitted for students who are caught cheating on a test.

Important Dates:

Midterm Progress Reports: April 18         Term Exams: May 23-24             Report Cards:  Mailed to Parents                     

I am available (Monday, Tuesday, or Thursday) before/after school in room 236 to help students with remedial work, tutoring, retesting, etc.

Students taking this class are expected to maintain an atmosphere that helps everyone learn and study.