CSIS 110 Introduction to Computing Sciences

A breadth-first introduction to the computing disciplines, with an emphasis on computer ethics and how computing technology impacts the world. Topics include: computing history; discrete mathematics; computer architecture and organization; algorithm design; languages; compilers; operating systems; applications; networks; databases; intellectual property; privacy; free speech; social consequences; computer crime; and codes of conduct.

For information regarding prerequisites for this course, please refer to the Academic Course Catalog.

Course Guide

View this course’s outcomes, policies, schedule, and more.*

*The information contained in our Course Guides is provided as a sample. Specific course curriculum and requirements for each course are provided by individual instructors each semester. Students should not use Course Guides to find and complete assignments, class prerequisites, or order books.


This course is an introductory and prerequisite course taught to the computer technology student. It touches all computing disciplines, which allows the student to gain a foundational perspective of the entire computer technology curriculum.


Textbook readings and lecture presentations

No details available.

After reading the Course Syllabus and Student Expectations, the student will complete the related checklist found in the Course Overview.

The student will present a research presentation on a career of his/her choice in computer technology. 

Research Presentation: Topic Selection Assignment

The student will submit a short 2-3 sentence description in bullet-point format of the occupation selected for the research paper. 

Research Presentation: Annotated Bibliography Assignment

The student will submit an annotated bibliography for at least 5 scholarly sources using the provided Research Paper: Annotated Bibliography Template for submission.

Research Presentation: Final Assignment

The student will write a research-based paper of at least 6 pages in current APA format that focuses on a career of his/her choice in computer technology.

These assignments align with the following FSLOs: CIL 2, 3, and 5.

There are two parts to this assignment. The student must first complete this assignment, as it will help you prepare for the development part of the assignment (Python Programming Assignment). The student will write an algorithm (in pseudocode) for the scenario provided in Canvas The student will need to build a program that provides a grade calculation based on input from the user. 

Lab Assignments (2)

The student will complete labs associated with the course material. Each lab will have specific instructions for tasks and deliverables.

These assignments align with the following FSLOs: CIL 1 and 3.

The student will review the assigned articles using the provided template. This template includes the bibliographic reference, article objectives and summary, the student’s critique of the article, and any questions engendered by reading the article.

These assignments align with CIL 1, 2.

Python Programming Assignment

The student will create a program built with Python based on the scenario and starter file provided in Canvas. The program must run when called up in Python or running from the command line. The student must document his or her code using comments so reviewer will know what the student is attempting to do.

Lab Quizzes (3)

These lab quizzes will cover Learn material from the assigned Module: Week. Each quiz will be open-book/open-notes and have a variety of multiple-choice, multiple-answer, and/or matching questions. Quiz: Lab — Python Programming will have a 30-minute time limit, Quiz: Lab — Algorithm will have a 45-minute time limit, and Quiz: Lab — Numbering Systems will have a 1-hour time limit.

These quizzes cover the Learn material for the Module: Week in which it is assigned. Each quiz will be open-book/open-notes, have a time limit of 30 minutes, contain a variety of multiple-choice and true/false questions.

The Midterm will cover the Learn material from the assigned Modules: Weeks. The quiz will be open-book/open-notes and contain 50 multiple choice questions. The time limit will be 1 hour and 30 minutes.

These assignments align with the following FSLOs: CIL 3 and 5.

The Final will cover the Learn material from the assigned Modules: Weeks. The quiz will be open-book/open-notes and contain 50 multiple choice questions. The time limit will be 1 hour and 15 minutes.

These assignments align with the following FSLOs: CIL 3 and 5.


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