BTS 171

Operating Systems for Advanced Users

Course Description

Students will learn some of the most important topics about Windows Vista, including customizing Windows Vista, implementing shortcut strategies, using OLE technologies, backing up a hard disk, safeguarding your computer, evaluating system performance, and installing software.

Course Information

Class:	BTS 171 - Operating Systems for Advanced Users
Credits:	5
Instructor:	Keith Rowley
Phone:	206.218.4987
E-Mail:	krowley@bellevuecollege.edu
Mail Box:	A242
Office:	A252
Office Hours:	Thursdays, 1:30-2:30pm in A133 (in the Business Tutoring Lab), and Wednesdays 7:30-8:30pm in my "vRoom"
Materials:	Text: Parsons/Oja/Carey/Carey/Ruffolo, New Perspectives on Microsoft Windows Vista: Comprehensive, (978-1-4239-0602-5) Course Technology, 2008. Software: Microsoft Windows Vista; Internet Explorer 7. Instructor will provide information on how to use these packages. Handouts: Additional handouts may be required. Instructor will provide information on obtaining this material. Student Online Companion: http://www.course.com/np/vista See the Distance Education Web page for information on technical requirements. Equipment is the responsibility of the student not the course provider.
Student Data:	Student Data icon on the home page for the course.

Course Outcomes

Use Help features of an operating system to find and review the basic functions
Customize an operating system by setting shortcuts, resolution and color depth, power management features, and mouse properties
Explore files systems to organize, store, and open files and applications
Create and customize shortcuts to create efficient user/PC interaction
Safeguard user data by organizing data for the appropriate backup type and media
Optimize disks operating using disk management and utility tools
Troubleshoot a PC through a troubleshoot strategy and with diagnostic tools
Set the correct printer properties and printing preferences to maximize printer efficiency
Keep a computer up-to-date through upgrading of its operating systems and software applications
Protect a PC by setting up a firewall and creating separate user accounts.

What If I Have Special Needs Or if Something Unusual Happens?

If you need course modifications/adaptations or accommodations because of a disability, we can refer you to our Disability Resource Center (DRC). You may contact them directly by going to B132 or by calling 425.564.2498 or TTY 425.564.4110. Information is also available on their website at http://bellevuecollege.edu/drc/

In addition, if you have a situation that occurs during the quarter that affects your ability to do the work, please contact the instructor immediately. Often there is a way to work together to enable you to finish the course. The instructor cannot do anything if you wait until the end of the quarter before indicating that you’re having a problem.

If you know you won’t be able to finish the course, please withdraw from the course and let the instructor know that you are not finishing. If you decide that you can’t finish the course after the last day to withdraw, please contact the instructor.

Cheating Policy

You are expected to conduct yourself with integrity. If you cheat or aid someone else in cheating, you violate trust. Cheating includes, but is not limited to copying or providing answers on tests, stealing, plagiarizing or illicitly using the materials of others. BCC has a due process for students accused of cheating—See WAC 132H120 in the Office of the Dean of Students.

Course Grading

Grading components are listed at the course site.

Project Activities

Most of your grade will come from the Review Assignments and Case Problems. Becoming proficient in Windows Vista is achieved by using the software for many hours. Homework gives you the opportunity to immerse yourself in the operating system software and perform the mental exercise necessary to really understand Windows Vista. The weight of each activity can vary with the number of tasks required. Consult the Project Instruction Sheet for a point breakdown.

There is a significant amount of homework in this class. You can expect to spend at least 12 hours per week to complete the assigned work. Be sure that you can spend the time this quarter. If you are overloaded, this may not be the quarter for you to take Advanced Operating Systems.

You are expected read the text, explore Help, use Web resources, discussion with classmates, and post problems you encounter when working on these projects.

Team Submissions

Team assignments may be required.

Discussions/e-Mail

Discussions and mail assignments may be required.

Quizzes

Quizzes will be given.

Keith Rowley
Bellevue Community College
3000 Landerholm Circle SE
Bellevue, WA 98027
206.218.4987
krowley@bellevuecollege.edu