CISC128 Comparative Operating Systems

Department of Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics: Computer/Information Science

1. Course Number and Title

   CISC128 Comparative Operating Systems

2. Number of Credits

   4 credits

3. Minimum Number of Instructional Minutes Per Semester

   3000

4. Prerequisites

   None

   Corequisites

   None

5. Other Pertinent Information

   Demonstrations, research, and laboratory experiences are an integral part of the course. Students whose program of study requires CISC105 may take CISC128 instead.

6. Catalog Course Description

   The course introduces the student to the functional components of the operating system software, which manages the physical resources of the computer system. Microprocessor based operating systems are emphasized.

7. Required Course Content and Direction

   1. Learning Goals:

      1. Course
      Students will
      1. explain the components and capabilities of an operating system;
      2. demonstrate the features of varied operating systems; and
      3. install and configure selected operating systems.
      
      
      2. Core (if applicable)
      This course is not included in the Core.

   2. Planned Sequence of Topics and/or Learning Activities:

      1. Introduction
      1. History and background
      2. Overview
      
      
      2. Types of Operating Systems
      1. Single-user
      2. Multi-user
      3. Distributive
      
      
      3. Graphical User Interfaces
      1. Background
      2. Common tasks
      3. Keeping current
      4. Support issues
      5. Glossary
      6. Crystal ball
      
      
      4. Command Line Interfaces
      1. Background
      2. Common tasks
      3. Keeping current
      4. Support issues
      5. Glossary
      6. Crystal ball
      
      
      5. Other Operating Systems
      1. Networks
      2. New developments
      
      
      6. Comparison/Contrast/Evaluation
      1. Advantages
      2. Disadvantages
      
      

   3. Assessment Methods for Core Learning Goals:

      1. Course
      The assessment of Course Learning Goals is based on written tests, labs and other assignments, as well as performance-based tasks as appropriate.
      2. Core (if applicable)
      This course is not included in the Core.

   4. Reference, Resource, or Learning Materials to be used by Students:

      Departmentally selected textbook. Details provided by the instructor of each course section. See Course Format.

8. Teaching Methods Employed

   Section VIII is not being used in new and revised syllabi as of 12/10/08.

Review/Approval Date - 9/98; Revised 6/09