IT 201, Page 1

The University of Southern Mississippi Department of Technology Education

College of Education and Psychology IT 201 – Introduction to Educational
Technology

COURSE SYLLABUS

Professor of Record: Mary E. Green, ABD

Office: Bond Hall, Room 315 Telephone: 266-4939

Office Hours: By appointment only

Meeting Location and Time:

McLemore Hall, Room 160
Section 1 (Wednesday night from 6:30 -9:15)

E-mail: mary.green@usm.edu

Appointments: E-mail, call, or speak with me about scheduling a day and time that are good for
us both.

Last Day to Drop Course: Last day to drop course without Academic Penalty is February 27,
2008.

Fees: A $50 materials fee will be charged to students’ accounts after January 18, 2008. If you
drop the course before that date and still see the charge, please speak with Nancy Bailey at 266-
4446. For those students who wish to record and transfer their Basic Technology Literacy Exam
(BTLE) to the College of Education and Psychology (COEP), will still need to pay the $25
testing fee required of all students. For those students who do not need the BTLE transferred to
COEP, then they do not need to pay the testing fee.

Need a USM E-mail address: Students will need a USM e-mail address for this course and to
also take the BTLE.

Catalog Description: Introduce students to the concepts and principles of using a computer as
an instructional tool with special emphasis on application software use and the Internet. Just a
note: This course (for teacher education students) is not a substitute for IT 365 that is required
later in the program.

Course Description: Introduction to Educational Technology addresses the fundamentals of

educational technology including the integration of instructional design, media, computers, and
related technologies within the classroom setting. Students will explore and evaluate how, when,
and why technology should be infused into education. Students will also experience how
different technology tools are used to create, manage, present, and evaluate instructional
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materials. Another purpose of this course is to help students understand how technology can
influence learning and discover how computers and instructional design techniques are
integrated, utilized, and evaluated within the classroom.

This course is also intended to help students acquire necessary skill development in computer
applications for instructional use or for those students who need remediation for successfully
completing the BTLE (Basic Technology Literacy Exam).

Prerequisite: None

Course Objectives: After completing the course, students will:

1. identify the requirements of the National Education Technology Standards placed upon
teachers and students.
2. demonstrate practical knowledge in the use and effectiveness of computers in educational
settings.
3. demonstrate the ability to access, generate, manipulate, and present information to students.
4. gain decision-making skills for selecting, evaluating, and utilizing computer hardware and
software to be used in the classroom.
5. obtain skill development in the use of software pertinent to productivity.
6. access the Internet and examine various teaching and learning resources.
7. demonstrate knowledge of the operation and application of various software application
programs presented in the course.
8. demonstrate the ability to evaluate the appropriateness of computer use in students’ personal
and professional lives.
9. apply educational technology to enhance professional growth and productivity.
10. apply educational technology to support instruction in selected developmental and content
areas.

Major Topics of the Course (and related objectives)

National Education Technology Standards

♦ Know the different technology standards that are established for which students have to
meet at certain grade levels.
♦ Become aware of the technology proficiencies that teachers have to attain.
♦ Use these standards as guidelines for planning technology-based activities in which
students can achieve success in learning, communication, and life skills.
♦ Be able to define the fundamental concepts, knowledge, skills, and attitudes for applying
technology in educational settings.

Computing Fundamentals

♦ Differentiate the parts and functions of computer hardware and peripherals.

♦ Discriminate between the different types of operating systems.
♦ Demonstrate ability to perform various operating systems applications.
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♦ Learn to purchase computers for a school lab by examining the hardware and software
components.
♦ Utilize computer maintenance programs to protect system hardware and software.

Educational Software

♦ Determine appropriate computer requirements.

♦ Select, evaluate, and maintain a software library.
♦ Learn to research on the Web for educational software.
♦ Differentiate the types of educational software available.

Mindtools for Problem-Solving and Research

♦ Develop instructional materials and worksheets for classroom activities that students will
complete (Kidspiration).
♦ Use database management software as a teaching tool to help students acquire
organizational, managerial, and investigatory skills concerning a topic/project (Access).

Mindtools for Communication

♦ Create instructional materials using word-processing and desktop publishing software

(Word and Publisher).
♦ Use electronic presentation software as a teaching tool to deliver content material to
students (PowerPoint).
♦ Apply presentation software as part of classroom related projects (PowerPoint).

Mindtools for Managing Instruction

♦ Apply spreadsheets in classroom management activities such as creating electronic grade

books (Excel).

Telecommunications in Education

♦ Discuss legal and ethical issues concerning computer use.

♦ Discuss issues concerning privacy, netiquette, etc.
♦ Use e-mail for communication between teacher, students, and parents.
♦ Use the Internet for course-related research or professional productivity.

Text Required: None

Web site resources: Please review the following Web sites for further information and
resources on how technology could be used in teaching and learning.
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4Teachers.org, http://www.4teachers.org/
ABC Teach, http://www.abcteach.com/
A to Z Teacher Stuff, http://atozteacherstuff.com/
Busy Teacher’s Web Site, http://www.ceismc.gatech.edu/busyt/
Discovery School, http://school.discovery.com/
EdHelper.com, http://www.edhelper.com/
Education World, http://www.education-world.com/
Kathy Schrock’s Guide for Teachers, http://school.discovery.com/schrockguide/assess.html
The Learning Page, http://www.learningpage.com/
NETS Teacher Resources, http://cnets.iste.org/teachers/t_resources.html
Tammy’s Technology Tips for Teachers, http://www.essdack.org/tips/

Teaching Techniques/Methods Used in Course: Lectures, media presentations, discussions,

demonstrations and "over the shoulder" assistance will be the instructional methods employed in
the course. Students will examine available technology to develop instructional experiences that
enhance teaching and learning.
All class requirements and activities are set upon individual and team basis so that maximum
instruction can be provided for each student at the same time collaborative learning will be
emphasized. The student is responsible for budgeting his/her own time and completing class
work progressively throughout the term.

Laboratory Requirements: Rules for use of the lab are posted in the lab, and other rules and
restrictions may be made from time to time. Use of the lab is a privilege and should be regarded
as such. Any students observed using the lab improperly will be subject to immediate loss of lab
privileges (it will be very difficult and expensive to pass this course without access to the lab).

Software in the computer lab is copyrighted and therefore may not be copied. Anyone who
copies any software will automatically receive an F in the course and other disciplinary action by
University authorities.

Only students enrolled in the Technology classes may use this computer room. Only class work
may be printed using the laser printer unless special permission is given by an instructor. A $50
materials fee will be charged to students’ accounts after the last day to add/drop class (January
18, 2008) to cover the cost for materials required for the course.
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Course Assignments/Exams and their Point Value:

Assignment Due date Points Information

Computer Comparison 30 Compare and contrast two different
computer systems that you plan to
purchase.
Flyer 30 Create two flyers for distribution.
Autoshapes 30 Create an Award Certificate and Classroom
Layout chart.
Tables and Tabs 30 Design tables and using the Tab feature
Publisher 30 Create a classroom calendar and classroom
banner.
Excel 30 Develop and design an Excel gradebook.
E-mail assignment 30 Sending and attaching files to e-mail.
Saving Images from 30 Locate and save images from the Internet
Internet to be inserted into PowerPoint
PowerPoint 30 Create a short slideshow
Access 30 Create a database for the classroom.
Kidspiration 30 Create an interactive worksheet with
Kidspiration.
Mid-term Pass/ This exam will be in the form of the BTLE
Fail Practice tests that will be given after we
cover each module. Students must get 80%
or more correct on each module, or they
will need to do the module again. If they
do not reach the 80%, then points will be
deducted from their accumulated overall
course point value.
Final 100 Complete and pass (need 90% or above to
get an “A,” an 80% or above to get a “B,”
and so on) the actual Basic Technology
Literacy Exam. For students who do not
pass the exam (or a module) and need to
scores for their Teacher Education
programs, then students will be given an
Incomplete for the course and will need to
retake the BTLE exam (or the module) in
the next semester as scheduled by the
BTLE test-giver. Retake fees will be
applied.
TOTAL POSSIBLE POINTS 430 points
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Weighted semester average will be rounded to one decimal place, and be used to determine
course grade based on the following scale:

A = 90 - 100 %
B = 80 - 89.9 %
C = 70 - 79.9 %
D = 60 - 69.9 %
F = 0 - 59.9 %

Professor make-up policy: If you miss class, it is your responsibility to find out what you
missed in that class session and catch up on the readings, assignments and laboratory work.
Furthermore, you are still required to turn in your assignments or take the test on the date
indicated. If you anticipate missing an exam or if an emergency arises which causes you to miss
an exam, please discuss the matter with the instructor. Approval for making up a missed test or
submitting late work is not automatic.

Professor attendance policy: Class attendance is expected. Students are allowed one absence
without any point deductions (whether excused or unexcused). After the first absence, students
will lose 10 points for each day absent from their Homework portion of the course evaluation.
Students who are late or leave class early more than three times will result in a deduction of one
absence. I will take attendance at the beginning of the course. So, if you are late, it is your
responsibility to make sure that I check you down as being present.

Disability Statement: “If a student has a disability that qualifies under the American with
Disabilities Act (ADA) and requires accommodations, he/she should contact the Office for
Disability Accommodations (ODA) for information on appropriate policies and procedures.
Disabilities covered by ADA may include learning, psychiatric, physical impairments, or chronic
health disorders. Students should contact ODA if they are not certain whether a medical
condition/disability qualifies. Box 8568; Telephone (601) 266-5024; TTY (601) 266-6837; Fax
(601) 266-6035.”
Address:
The University of Southern Mississippi
Office for Disability Accommodations
118 College Drive # 8586
Hattiesburg, MS 39406-0001
Voice Telephone: (601) 266-5024 or (228) 214-3232
Fax: (601) 266-6035
Individuals with hearing impairments can contact ODA using the Mississippi Relay
Service at 1-800-582-2233 (TTY) or email Suzy Hebert at Suzanne.Hebert@usm.edu.

Plagiarism/Integrity Statement: Integrity is of the highest importance in the academic

community and at The University of Southern Mississippi. Students are expected to conduct
themselves with complete honesty and integrity. Nothing less is acceptable. Please refer to the
“Code of Student Conduct” in the Student Handbook for greater detail.
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Offenses involving academic dishonesty include, but are not limited to, the following:

-cheating on quizzes or examinations

-computer dishonesty
-plagiarism
-grade falsification
-collusion

In the event of student dishonesty, the instructor may award failing grades either on the pertinent
assignment or for the course; and, at his/her discretion, report the student to the office of the
Dean of Students for possible judicial proceedings under the University’s Code of Student
Conduct. Faculty members are expected to enforce rigorously the University’s Academic
Honesty Policy.

For further information on Academic Honesty, please refer to the current Bulletin or to the
Student Handbook. Additionally, the University library provides a Web site that reviews the
topic of plagiarism at http://www.lib.usm.edu/research/plag/plagiarismtutorial.php. Students are
encouraged to review the information on this site.

Students are expected to adhere to the highest standards of academic honesty as outlined in the
Student Handbook. Academic dishonesty will result in the grade of a “0” on the assignment or
for the entire course, and/or the student may be reported to the Vice President for Academic
Affairs for further action.

USM Non-discrimination Policy Statement: The University of Southern Mississippi offers to

all persons equal access to educational, programmatic and employment opportunities without
regard to age, sex, religion, color, national origin, Vietnam era veteran status or disability status.
These provisions are pursuant to applicable federal and state regulations." Inquiries concerning
discrimination should be directed to the following:
Office of Affirmative Action/Equal Employment Opportunity
221 Weathersby Hall
The University of Southern Mississippi
Hattiesburg, Mississippi 39406-5168
601-266-6618
TTY: 601-266-6872
This non-discrimination policy protects students whenever they are involved in activities related
to USM, both on and off campus.
Cell Phones, Beepers, and other Distracting Devices: Students are requested to turn off their
digital communication devices during class. If a student is “on call” and must keep the device
turned on, please inform the instructor and utilize the vibrate option so as not to disrupt the class.
Continual class interruptions (cell phones, beepers, etc.) will be reflected upon the student’s
Homework grade.
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Class Topic Assignment Due

Meeting Date

Week 1 • Introduction to the course Create a folder inside your class folder
January 16 • Syllabus on the server and name it with your last
• Getting start with technology name
• Quick overview of NETS-T
• Introduction to file management
• Computer Basics (hardware)

Week 2 • Work on Computer Comparison Assignment 1

Assignment Computer Comparison due (January,
January 23 • Introduction to Microsoft Word 30)
Week 3 • Work on flyers Assignment 2
• Overview of Autoshapes Flyers are due (February 6)
January 30

Week 4 • Work on the Autoshapes Assignment 3

Assignment Award and Classroom Layout due
February 6 • Introduce how to create tables in (February 13)
Word

Week 5 • Work on the Tables and Tabs Assignment 4

Assignment Tables and Tabs (February 20)
February 13 • Introduce MS Publisher
• Review for Word Module on the
mid-term
Week 6 • Work on the MS Publisher Word Module Exam (Feb. 20)
assignment
February 20 • Introduce Excel – Part I and Part II

Week 7 • Students work on Part I and Part II

• Introduce Excel – Part III and Part
February 27 IV
• Students work on Part III and Part
IV

Week 8 • Review for Excel Module on the Assignment 5

mid-term Excel (all parts) due (March 5)
March 5 • Introduce the telecommunications
unit (e-mail) Excel Module Exam (March 5)

Week 9
Spring Break
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Week 9 • Work on e-mail assignment Assignment 6

• Introduce how to save images from E-mail and attachment assignment
March 19 the Internet due (March 19)
• Work on Internet Images
assignment
Week 10 • Review for Telecommunications Assignment 7
Module on the mid-term Internet Images assignment due (April
March 26 • Introduction to PowerPoint 2)

Telecommunications Module Exam

(March 26)
Week 11 • Work on PowerPoint Telecommunications Module Exam
• ATEA (April 2)
April 2 • Begin Overview of Access

Week 12 • Review for PowerPoint Module Assignment 8

Exam PowerPoint due (April 9)
April 9 • Continue Overview of Access
PowerPoint Module Exam (April 16)

Week 13 • Work on the Access Assignment Assignment 9

• Review for Access Module on the Access database assignment due (April
April 16 mid-term 23)

Week 13 • Introduction to Kidspiration Access Module Exam (April 23)

• Work on Kidspiration worksheets
April 23 • Review for BTLE exam

Week 14 • *BTLE final exam begins (April 30, Assignment 10

2008) Kidspiration Worksheet due (April 30)

April 30
Week 15 • *BTLE exam continues

May 5,
8:00am-10:30am