3.5 Course Overviews:
"C"
To speed your search, click on the appropriate alphabetical course
reference:
CAREER
DEVELOPMENT (CADE)
The Career Development courses have been renumbered and named to Psychology.
CADE 205 Prior Learning Assessment
and Portfolio Development (3)
CADE 300 Theories of Career Development (3)
CADE 301 Career Development Resources in the Changing World of Work (3)
CADE 400 Creating a Working Alliance (3)
CADE 401 Experiential Learning and
Reflective Practice 1 (3)
CADE 402 Experiential Learning and
Reflective Practice 2 (3)
CADE 403 Special Projects in Career
Development 1 (3)
CADE 404 Special Projects in Career
Development 2 (3)
CHEMISTRY
(CHEM)
CHEM
217
Chemical Principles I
3Science
Delivery Mode: Individualized
study. Home and grouped
lab component (requires attendance at a supervised laboratory).
Lab component only.Video
component.
Prerequisite: Chemistry 30 or an equivalent senior-level
high school chemistry course is recommended but not required.
This course is open only to students with previous chemistry experience.
Precluded: CHEM 217 cannot be taken for credit if credit
has already been obtained for CHEM 209.
Chemical Principles I provides an introduction to university
chemistry from both a theoretical and practical point of view.
Topics covered include a review of nomenclature, the mole concept,
and stoichiometry; thermochemistry; atomic and molecular structure;
periodic relationships; the gas laws; and the properties of solids,
liquids, and solutions.
Note: The combination of CHEM 217 and CHEM 218 is the
equivalent to first-year university chemistry.
Special instructional features: This course has a compulsory
lab component. Refer to the Web
site or contact the science lab coordinator or course professor
for lab dates and sites.
CHEM
218
Chemical Principles II
3Science
Delivery Mode: Individualized
study. Grouped lab(requires
attendance at a supervised laboratory). Video
component. Lab component only.
Prerequisite: CHEM 217. Concurrent registration in CHEM 217
and CHEM 218 is not permitted. To avoid unnecessary delays, the
course professor will normally grant permission for students to
register in CHEM 218 as soon as the final exam in CHEM 217 has been
written.
Precluded: CHEM 218 cannot be taken for credit if credit
has already been obtained for CHEM 209.
Chemical Principles II is a continuation of Chemical Principles
I. Topics covered include reaction kinetics, equilibrium, acid-base
theory, thermodynamics, electrochemistry, the chemistry of non-metals,
nuclear chemistry, and an introduction to organic chemistry. The
experiments performed in the laboratory component of the course
complement the material studied in the theoretical part of the
course and provide students with the opportunity to use many of
the skills developed in Chemical Principles I. The combination
of CHEM 217 and CHEM 218 is the equivalent to first-year university
chemistry.
Special instructional features: Concurrent registration
in CHEM 218, CHEM 350, and CHEM 360 is not permitted. This course
has a compulsory laboratory component. Refer to the Web
site or contact the science lab coordinator or course professor
for lab dates and sites.
CHEM
301
Introduction to Biochemistry
3Science
Delivery Mode: Individualized
study.
Prerequisite: CHEM 350 and CHEM 360 or equivalent undergraduate
courses taken at an accredited post-secondary institution.
Topics covered in this course include amino acids, proteins,
simple and complex carbohydrates, lipids and membranes, and intermediary
metabolism. An introduction to molecular biology will also be
given. The course will emphasize the chemical principles involved
in biochemistry and modern biochemical research literature. The
course will lay strong emphasis on biochemistry as an ongoing
science. It does not have a laboratory component.
CHEM
330
Environmental Chemistry
3Science
Delivery Mode: Individualized
study.
Prerequisites: CHEM 217 and CHEM 218.
Environmental Chemistry is a multidisciplinary subject dealing
with various topical issues of pollution in our world today. This
course will provide a broad overview and introduce the student
to many of today's relevant issues while giving the most reliable
and recent scientific information available. It emphasizes the
chemical and toxicological aspects of such topics as acid rain,
indoor air quality, atmospheric chemistry, drinking water, sewage
and waste disposal, chlorinated organic compounds (e.g., DDT and
PCBs) and heavy metals in the environment. In addition to the
descriptive chemical nature of this course, students will use
elementary chemical equilibrium, kinetics, and thermodynamics
to solve many typical environmentally related problems. This course
does not have a laboratory component.
CHEM
350
Organic Chemistry I
3Science
Delivery Mode: Individualized
study. Grouped lab (requires
attendance at a supervised laboratory). Lab
component only.
Prerequisite: CHEM 217 and CHEM 218.
Precluded course: CHEM 350 cannot be taken for credit if
credit has already been obtained for CHEM 345.
Organic Chemistry I deals with the chemistry of carbon compounds
through a study of the characteristic reactions of the common
functional groups. Alkanes, alkenes, alkynes, alkyl halides, conjugated
dienes, and substituted aromatics are discussed. Particular emphasis
is placed on the study of reaction mechanisms in an attempt to
show similarities between apparently unrelated reactions. The
importance of stereochemistry is stressed throughout the course.
An introduction to the use of spectroscopy in the analysis of
organic compounds is also included in the course. CHEM 350, together
with CHEM 360, will represent a full year introductory organic
chemistry course at the second-year university level.
Special instructional features: Concurrent registration
in CHEM 218, CHEM 350, and CHEM 360 is not permitted. This course
has a compulsory laboratory component. Refer to the Web
site or contact the science lab coordinator or course professor
for lab dates and sites.
CHEM
360
Organic Chemistry II
3Science
Delivery Mode: Individualized
study. Grouped lab (requires
attendance at a supervised laboratory). Lab
component only.
Prerequisite: CHEM 350.
Precluded course: CHEM 360 cannot be taken for credit if
credit has already been obtained for CHEM 345.
Organic Chemistry II is the continuation of CHEM 350. The chemistry
of hydrocarbons, aryl halides, alcohols, ethers, aldehydes and
ketones, carboxylic acids and their derivatives, carbohydrates,
and amines are discussed. Particular emphasis is placed on the
study of reaction mechanisms in an attempt to show similarities
between apparently unrelated reactions. The importance of stereochemistry
is stressed throughout the course. In addition to the compulsory
units in the course, students will complete one of the four optional
units that are devoted to the study of compounds of biological
or industrial importance, including amino acids, proteins, lipids,
nucleic acids, and synthetic polymers. Further use of spectroscopy
in the analysis of organic compounds is also included in the course.
CHEM 360, together with CHEM 350, is a comprehensive introduction
to organic chemistry at the second-year university level.
Special instructional features: Concurrent registration
in CHEM 218, CHEM 350, and CHEM 360 is not permitted. This course
has a compulsory laboratory component. Refer to the Web
site or contact the science lab coordinator or course professor
for lab dates and sites.
CHEM
495-496
Chemistry Projects
3 eachScience
Delivery Mode: Individualized
study.
Prerequisite for CHEM 495: Professor approval and at least 12 credits
(at least three at senior level) in chemistry.
Prerequisite for CHEM 496: CHEM 495.
These courses are suitable for senior-level students who wish to do
research projects in chemistry or applied fields such as agriculture,
chemical engineering, or industrial chemistry. These courses are based
on a learning contract between each student and an approved supervisor.
By doing research, students improve their skills to choose and define
problems, obtain information from libraries or experiments, organize
facts and ideas, and report ideas and conclusions in written form. Projects
can only be done on work planned; they cannot be done on work already
completed. Contact the course professor before registering. These courses
are excluded from the Challenge for Credit Policy.
COMMUNICATIONS
(COMM)
COM
243
Interpersonal Communications in Management
3Applied Studies
Delivery Mode: *Individualized
study. Grouped study. e-Class®.
*Note: This course may be offered online or online-enhanced. Confirm
status before registering.
Prerequisite: None.
Téluq Equivalency: COM 5000.
This course introduces the techniques of effective communication and
encourages students to develop and apply these skills to actual management
settings and situations. The course begins with a focus on active listening,
interpreting words and other symbols, self-disclosure, conflict and
communication in organizations, and understanding the communication
process. It concludes with the structure and planning of various management-related
interviews.
COMM
329
The Practice of Interpersonal Communications
3Applied Studies
Delivery Mode: Individualized
study. Grouped study.
Prerequisite: COMM 243 is recommended but not required for students
with no previous university-level background in communication.
This senior course is designed to improve communication skills and
extends concepts and issues addressed in COMM 243. It introduces issues
such as pacing, value judgement, handling of emotion, attending, perception
checking, and the selection and evaluation of a guidance or helping
strategy.
COMM
377
Communication and Problem Solving in Groups
3Applied Studies
Delivery Mode: *Individualized
study. Grouped study.
Prerequisite: COMM 243 is recommended but not required.
Precluded course: COMM 377 cannot be taken for credit if credit
has already been obtained for ADMN 348.
Téluq Equivalency: COM 1021.
This course helps students improve their effectiveness in problem solving
when working in groups of three or more people. Through a set of readings
and assignments, students gain new knowledge about problem solving that
can be applied in their day-to-day work settings.
COMMUNICATION
STUDIES (CMNS)
CMNS
301
Communication Theory and Analysis
3Social Science
Delivery Mode: Individualized
study. Video component.
Online-enhanced.
Prerequisite: None.
Téluq Equivalency: COM 1001/1002.
This is one of two foundation courses for the Bachelor of Professional
Arts (Communication Studies) degree program. It introduces students
to an array of international theories of mass communication. The course
focuses on developing notions of mass communication in the twentieth
century, debates surrounding issues in the field, and the practical
application of theory to practice. The course is designed to accommodate
varying levels of experience with communication theory. Students are
advised to take the course early in their program. Some course components
are available online as an optional delivery mode.
CMNS
302
Communication in History
3Humanities
Delivery Mode: Individualized
study. audio/video component.
Online-enhanced.
Prerequisite: None.
Téluq Equivalency: COM 2000.
CMNS 302 is one of two foundation courses for the Bachelor of Professional
Arts (Communication Studies) degree program. It follows the interactions
between media and society in a number of technological contexts: oral
and literate cultures, manuscript and print cultures, electric, and
electronic cultures. In examining the complex relations between technology
and its users, the course addresses issues in theories of human communication,
technological determinism, diffusion of innovations, and social systems,
among others. Students are advised to take this course early in their
program. Some course components are available online as an optional
delivery mode.
CMNS
308
Understanding Statistical Evidence
3Social Science
Delivery Mode: Individualized
study. Online-enhanced.
Prerequisite: None.
This course provides the student with the necessary information to
become a critical consumer of statistical evidence. Although statistics
definitely have mathematical connotations, this is not a course in mathematics,
and adopts a conceptual rather than a computational approach to learning
statistics. The objective of the course is to convey the major statistical
constructs, as well as the strategies needed to evaluate statistical
evidence. Some course components are available online as an optional
delivery mode.
CMNS
311
Mass Media and the Law
3Social Science
Delivery Mode: Individualized-study
online. Video component.
Prerequisite: None.
Cross-listed: CMNS 311 is listed under two different disciplines,
Communication Studies and Legal Studies. CMNS 311 cannot be taken for
credit (towards a credential) if credit has already been obtained for
LGST 311.
This course introduces communication and media professionals to the
legal context within which they work. The course uses case studies to
illustrate how such issues as freedom of expression, defamation, contempt
of court, copyright, access to information, breach of privacy and confidentiality
affect the working life of the media professional. This course has an
online component.
CMNS
321
Computers and Human Experience
3Social Science
Delivery Mode: Individualized-study
online. Video component.
Prerequisite: None.
Téluq Equivalency: COM 3003.
This course surveys the impact on the individual of the explosive growth
in computer use. Students will choose from units that address fundamental
areas of human-computer interaction such as artificial intelligence,
robotics and virtual reality, information management, and the Internet.
Students will then choose from units that examine applications of these
interactions in the broad areas of education, employment, entertainment,
and psychological and physical well-being. This course has an online
component.
CMNS
358
Popular Culture and the Media
3Humanities
Delivery Mode: Individualized
study. Audio/video component.
Online-enhanced.
Prerequisite: None.
This course introduces students to the field of cultural studies, as
well as the relationship between popular culture and the media. Students
will be asked to look critically at movies, television, radio, and print,
in order to ponder a number of important questions. To what extent do
the media lead or follow trends in popular culture? Is popular culture
forward-looking or conservative in nature? What is the relationship
between highbrow and lowbrow cultures in terms of form, audience, and
purpose? The emphasis in the course is on examining cultural artifacts
as artistic objects seen in the light of various socio-political contexts.
Some course components are available online as an optional delivery
mode.
CMNS
370-371
Individual / Group Projects
3Applied Studies
Delivery Mode: Individualized
study.
Prerequisite: CMNS 301 and CMNS 302 or professor approval required.
Projects are chosen in consultation with an instructor and intended
for pursuit by a student (or group of students) interested in the area
presented by one of the Communication Studies courses. Contact a Communications
Studies course coordinator for a project proposal booklet before registering.
CMNS
380
Corporate Communication
3Social Science
Delivery Mode: Individualized
study. Video component.
Online-enhanced.
Prerequisite: None.
This course addresses recent changes in corporate and community communication
roles. Drawing on competing theoretical and practical approaches to
leadership, adaptive strategies and change management, the course encourages
students to make effective decisions about their own communication approaches,
priorities, and activities. Students without a management background
should take ADMN 232 or COMM 243 before taking CMNS 380. Some course
components are available online as an optional delivery mode.
CMNS
385
Media Construction of Social Movements and Issues
3Social Science
Delivery Mode: Individualized
study. Video component.
Online-enhanced.
Prerequisite: SOCI 337, a theory course, or professor approval
required.
In this course students investigate the role of media in the shaping
and/or making of social issues. The course critically examines a range
of theories about media effects, and how media constructions, ideological
positions, and media struggles inform the public's conception of a particular
social issue. In part, the course deals with the ways in which organizations,
institutions, and interest groups attempt to gain access to the media
and how these attempts shape the entire debate. Topics include the media
and gender, sexual identity, social protest, unionism, race, corporate
image, and a major case study of the media and the Canadian peace movement.
Some course components are available online as an optional delivery
mode.
CMNS
401
Cultural Policy in Canada
3Social Science
Delivery Mode: Individualized
study. Online-enhanced.
Prerequisite: CMNS 301 is recommended but not required.
CMNS 401 surveys the historical development of federal arts policy
and the related ideals of national culture. It uses this framework to
discuss expanded perceptions of "culture" as social expression
and the role of government policy in a diverse society. Finally, the
course offers detailed studies of the interaction between symbolic and
economic environments in key cultural industries. Some course components
are available online as an optional delivery mode.
CMNS
402
International Media Systems IThe Americas
3Social Science
Delivery Mode: Individualized
study. Online-enhanced. Video component.
Prerequisite: None.
Students of this course will develop a working knowledge of the recent
history and current realities of media systems in North and Latin America.
The course helps students evaluate the roles of mass media in different
types of societies, economies and political systems. Using case studies
from Mexico, Brazil, the United States and Canada, the course examines
issues of imported technology; the relations between mainstream and
alternative media; international communication and national development;
how information flow is channelled between north and south; and the
relationship between media, democracy and developed nations. Some course
components are available online as an optional delivery mode.
CMNS 410
Audience Effects Research
3Social Science
Delivery Mode: Individualized
study. Online-enhanced.
Prerequisite: None.
This course provides an overview of current issues and recent methods
in conducting audience effects research. The course uses both print
and electronic resources to examine the research process, from definition
of problem and objectives, to ethical considerations and research design,
method, and analysis, and finally, to evaluation of results. Students
have the option of following extended case studies in the areas of information
technology or health administration. Some course components are available
online as an optional delivery mode.
CMNS
420
Children and Media
3Humanities
Delivery Mode: Individualized
study. Audio/video component.
Online-enhanced.
Prerequisite: CMNS 301 and CMNS 302 are recommended but not required.
This course examines questions of children's relationship to texts
and materials in media of many kinds: books, films, broadcast and recorded
programs, CD-ROMs, computer programs, video games, Internet texts, and
various toys and associated commodities. These media affect how children
develop an understanding of society and of the way society chooses to
tell stories and organize information. In turn, these media are affected
by social arrangements and decisions. Some course components are available
via the Internet as an optional delivery mode.
CMNS
421
Personal Implications of the Internet
3Social Science
Delivery Mode: Individualized-study
online. Audio/video component.
Prerequisite: CMNS 301 and CMNS 302 are recommended but not required.
From the inner self to the outer self, the Internet is rapidly coming
to represent a broad range of new approaches to old ways of thinking
about self, relationships, and spirituality. Following an introduction
to cultural and psychological aspects of the Internet, three required
units will examine definitions of self, online relationships, and small
group behaviour. The final units offer choices in topics that range
from developmental psychology to issues of gender and class, to deviance
and pathology, and the transpersonal. Access to a computer system is
required/desirable. Contact the course coordinator for more details.
CMNS
423
The Television Age
3Humanities
Delivery Mode: Individualized
study. Online-enhanced.
Prerequisite: None.
CMNS 423 introduces students to the technology, politics, economics,
philosophy, ideology, and morality of television. Students are asked
to look critically behind the scenes of the television world and discern
the various patterns of industry structure and thematic content. Through
looking at the medium itself, its major players, the content of the
medium and the audience responses to that content, students will reach
their own conclusions about just who, if anyone, controls the television
industry. Access to a television is required/ desirable. Contact the
course coordinator for further details. Some course components are available
online as an optional delivery mode.
CMNS
425
Film and Genre
3Humanities
Delivery Mode: Individualized
study. Video component.
Online-enhanced.
Prerequisite: None.
This course explores the relationship of genre to the medium of film.
It examines the economic and historical development of genre film-making
as well as the individual genres of horror, science fiction, mystery-suspense,
and comedy. The course examines each of these genres in terms of its
evolution, international manifestations, and its relationship to social
change. Some course components are available online as an optional delivery
mode.
CMNS
445
Directed Readings in Communication Studies
3ReadingSocial Science
Delivery Mode: Individualized
study.
Prerequisite: Professor approval required.
This course requires students to present research on a topic chosen
in consultation with an instructor. Students must complete CMNS 301
and CMNS 302 before registering in CMNS 445. Contact a Communication
Studies course coordinator for guidelines.
CMNS
450-451
Individual / Group Projects
3 eachApplied Studies
Delivery Mode: Individualized
study.
Prerequisite: Professor approval required.
These projects are chosen in consultation with an instructor and intended
for pursuit by a student (or group of students) interested in an area
presented by one of the Communication Studies courses. Students must
complete CMNS 301, CMNS 302, and one other senior Communication Studies
course before applying for a 400-level project course. Contact a Communication
Studies course coordinator for a project proposal booklet.
COMPUTERS
AND MANAGEMENT INFORMATION SYSTEMS (CMIS)
All courses in Computers and Management Information Systems (CMIS)
require the use of an IBM-compatible microcomputer with particular specifications
outlined in the course description. Contact the course professor or
the Web site syllabi before registering, to determine if the computer
system to which you have access is sufficient.
CMIS
245 (in development)
Microcomputer Applications in Business (Windows)
3Applied Studies
Delivery Mode: *Individualized
study. Grouped study. e-Class®.
*Note: This course may be offered online or online-enhanced. Confirm status
before registering.
Prerequisite: None.
Precluded courses: CMIS 245 (similar content to CMIS 301 that is scheduled to close when CMIS 245 opens) cannot be taken for credit if credit
has already been obtained for ADMN 371, CMIS 321, or CMIS 301 (those students can
register in CMIS 302).
This introductory hands-on course demonstrates how to use microcomputer
technology to develop solutions to business problems. Basic to intermediate
level application features are illustrated. Exercises and assignments
develop microcomputer proficiency and problem-solving skills. Emphasis
is placed on using a systematic approach to design and implement problem-solving
solutions to typical workplace information needs. Students gain an appreciation
and understanding of when and how to use these applications in typical
workplace situations. Students must have access to a microcomputer,
the Internet, and the required software programs to complete the course
requirements.
This course assumes the use of the Microsoft Office XP Professional suite
of programs. If you do not have this software it can be purchased from the
Athabasca University bookstore.
CMIS
302
Microcomputer Applications II (Windows)
3Applied Studies
Delivery Mode: *Individualized
study. Grouped study. e-Class®.
Prerequisites: ADMN 371, CMIS 301.
*Note: This course may be offered online or online-enhanced. Confirm status
before registering.
Precluded course: CMIS 302 cannot be taken for credit if credit
has already been obtained for CMIS 322.
This hands-on course covers advanced software features that can be
used to analyse and present information or data. Emphasis is placed
on using a systematic approach to design and implement problem-solving
solutions to typical workplace information needs. Learned skills and
techniques can be applied in a variety of occupations and professions.
Students must have access to a microcomputer and the required software
programs to complete the course requirements.
CMIS
311
Case Studies in Management Information Systems
3Applied Studies
Delivery Mode: Individualized-study
online. e-Class®.
Prerequisite: None; however, students are expected to have experience using Microsoft Office products before starting this course. Those wishing to upgrade their Office skills may take CMIS 245.
CMIS 311 is a three-credit, senior-level course on end-user information systems that blends business concepts with software solutions using a case study approach. In CMIS 311, you study a
variety of concepts, grouped according to their relationship to four main areas of
end-user information systems: organizational and technical foundations, business
solutions, implementation and support, and impact on workplace performance.
You will work out solutions to the cases using presentation software, databases, spreadsheets, and Web development tools.
CMIS
341
Managing Information Technology in the E-Business Enterprise I
3Applied Studies
Delivery Mode: Individualized-study
online. e-Class®.
Prerequisite: None.
This course covers managerial issues involved in running e-business
enterprises. E-business is defined in this context as the use of the
Internet and its variants Intranets and Extranets as a platform for
electronic commerce, internal business operations, and inter-organizational
collaboration. While of necessity they will be mention of physical technologies
that enable e-business, they will not be the focus of this course. These
will be covered in detail in the complementary course CMIS 342. The
course has a hands-on component that requires the use of spreadsheet,
database, and presentation graphics software besides the obvious word
processing software for preparing assignments. Knowledge of application
packages is assumed. Case study methodology is employed throughout the
course to reinforce concepts.
CMIS
342
Managing Information Technology in the E-Business Enterprise II
3Applied Studies
Delivery Mode: *Individualized-study
online. e-Class®.
Prerequisite: CMIS 341.
CMIS 342 is a continuation of CMIS 341. It covers four main areas:
technical foundation concepts; covering the management of hardware,
software, and data resources; telecommunications and networks; ethical
and security management concerns in e-business; and challenges of managing
global e-business systems.Though the material covered in this course
is similar to material covered in any MIS course, emphasis is placed
on applying traditional MIS concepts to an e-business environment. After
taking this course students will be expected to identify trends in telecommunications
and computing technologies and make informed decisions on their potential
impact on the conduct of electronic business. Building the skills to
read technological trends and identifying business threats and opportunities
associated with those trends is the major objective of this course.
CMIS
351
Management Information Systems
3Applied Studies
Delivery Mode: Individualized-study
online. e-Class®.
Prerequisites: COMP 200, CMIS 301 or CMIS 321. Students must be
proficient in the use of wordprocessing software. Word is recommended.
Téluq Equivalency: ADM 2005.
This online course will focus on the impact of information technology
and management information systems on business organizations. The course
will be taught from a managerial or end-user perspective, describing
how information systems support key business functions, what information
resources are available to managers, and what the role of management
should be in the systems development process.
CMIS
455
Accounting Information Systems
3Applied Studies
Delivery Mode: Individualized-study
online. e-Class®.
Prerequisite: CMIS 351.
This electronically delivered course will help prepare students for
a career in the accounting profession. Students will learn to understand
the flow of accounting data and information in business organizations;
be familiar with the tools of accounting systems work, such as data
flow diagrams and flow charting; have a thorough knowledge of control
principles and their application in information systems and various
organizational contexts; and understand the major business and accounting
cycles in which an organization's transactions are processed.
COMPUTER
SCIENCE AND INFORMATION SYSTEMS (COMP)
In order to participate in Computer Science and Information Systems
(COMP) courses, each student must own or have ready access to the computer
hardware and software described either at the Centre for Computing and
Information Systems (CCIS) software
site or the individual Web syllabus. All Computer Science courses
are delivered via individualized-study online meaning much of the learning
material is available in electronic format. If you plan to use our course
materials at your workplace, before you register check with your local
systems administrator for potential firewall restrictions on downloading
material.
Although Windows NT/95/98/2000 is required to complete the BSc in
Computing and Information Systems and the BSc in Computing and Information
Systems (Post Diploma) programs, most COMP courses may be completed
successfully with a Macintosh or Linux.
E-mail ccismsec@athabascau.ca
or phone the Centre for Computing
and Information Systems at (800) 788-9041 (ext. 6343) or (780) 675-6343
for more information.
COMP
200
Introduction to Computing and Information Systems
3Science
Delivery Mode: Individualized-study
online.
Prerequisite: None.
Precluded course: COMP 200 cannot be taken for credit if credit
has already been obtained for COMP 210.
Téluq Equivalency: INF 1100.
The course will cover basic hardware concepts; the structure (or architecture)
of computers; the software hierarchy of systems software, programming
languages (e.g., Java and VRML) and application programs; and information
systems concepts and development. COMP 200 has a substantial and fairly
sophisticated practical hands-on component that consists of an introduction
to MS Access, HTML, Javascript, and the Internet. Students must supply
their own version of MS Office (with the MS Access database) or Star
Office (no instructional support is currently supplied but it can be
used to complete all exercises and projects). The computer used must
have a CD-ROM drive. MS Office may be purchased from the Course Materials
Department of Athabasca University.
COMP
210
Introduction to Information Systems and Computer Applications
3Science
Delivery Mode: Individualized-study
online.
Prerequisite: Some basic competence in Windows.
Precluded course: COMP 210 cannot be taken for credit if credit
has already been obtained for COMP 200.
This course is designed to cover the fundamentals of computer applications
and information systems for students not planning a major in Information
Systems. The content of COMP 210 reflects the growing applications of
information technology in the workplace. The course has a practical
hands-on component that consists of an introduction to the Internet
and office applications with MS Office or Star Office (no instructional
support is currently supplied but it can be used to complete all exercises
and projects). Students must supply their own copy of MS Office Pro
and must have a CD-ROM drive on their computer. MS Office may be purchased
from the Course Materials Department of Athabasca University.
COMP
268
Introduction to Computer Programming (Java)
3Science
Delivery Mode: Individualized-study
online.
Prerequisite: COMP 200. Students should have a basic knowledge
of computers and the Internet and have completed high school algebra.
COMP 268 teaches students the basics of computer programming. While
students must learn the syntax of the Java programming language, the
emphasis is upon the fundamental concepts of object-oriented programming.
Students learn that problem identification, solution development, coding,
documentation, and testing are all part of good programming practice.
COMP
272
Data Structures and Algorithms (Java)
3Science
Delivery Mode: Individualized-study
online.
Prerequisite: COMP 268 or an equivalent introductory programming
course in Java.
COMP 272 builds on the concepts introduced in COMP 268 and shows how
the careful design and analysis of data structures and algorithms help
to cope with the complexity of actual applications. The following topics
are covered in this course: introduction to algorithm analysis, recursion,
arrays, lists, stacks, queues, trees, graphs, searching, and sorting.
A first course in Java programming and knowledge of high school algebra
are assumed.
COMP
307
C/C++ for Programmers
3Science
Delivery Mode: Individualized-study
online.
Prerequisite: COMP 268 or permission of the professor.
Precluded course: COMP 307 cannot be taken for credit if credit
has already been obtained for COMP 389.
This is an intermediate programming course for students with experience
with other programming languages. It introduces basic procedural programming
concepts using C, then builds on this foundation, exploring object-oriented
programming concepts using C++.
COMP
308
Java for Programmers
3Science
Delivery Mode: Individualized-study
online.
Prerequisites: COMP 389 or COMP 268, or permission of the course
professor.
COMP 308 provides a solid grounding in object-oriented programming
in Java for students who have a background in procedural programming
and advanced features of OOP for students with introductory courses
in OOP. This course may be used as an elective for students in the BSc
(CIS), BA(IS) and BSc (CIS-PD).
COMP
314
Computer Organization
3Science
Delivery Mode: Individualized-study
online.
Prerequisites: COMP 200 and COMP 268.
A clear understanding of how operating systems coordinate the various
activities of computer systems is an essential component of general
computer literacy. In COMP 314, the student will be introduced to the
fundamental concepts and principles of operating systems. Topics covered
include process management, storage management and protection/security
issues.
COMP
315
Advanced Operating Systems
3Science
Delivery Mode: Individualized-study
online
Corequisite: COMP 314.
This course gives an in-depth exposure to the Linux operating system.
Students learn day-to-day usage of Linux, using various editors, writing
complex shell programs, and using sophisticated software development
tools. In addition to command-level interaction with Linux, this course
exposes students to GUI interface through Windows. Moreover, it emphasizes
dealing with concepts taught in COMP 314 such as process management,
file system, communications, and security. Students are expected to
have a knowledge of a programming language, preferably C, and the subject
of operating systems taught in COMP 314.
COMP
345
Data Communications
3Science
Delivery Mode: Individualized-study
online.
Prerequisites: COMP 272 or COMP 305, or COMP 307 and COMP 314.
Students will learn the principles and underlying theory of data communications.
This includes the OSI and TCP/IP models and basic protocols, and such
topics as media selection, error handling, communications hardware and
interfacing, protocols, LAN alternatives, selection criteria, virtual
networks, routing and internetworking, encryption, and compression.
COMP
346
Computer Networks
3Science
Delivery Mode: Individualized-study
online.
Prerequisite: COMP 345.
Students will continue the study of communications protocols, networking,
and internetworking, begun in COMP 345. We add more detail and practice
in the TCP/IP protocols, and study new protocols and applications. Topics
include: communications connectivity and standards, data transmission,
synchronization, error handling, multiplexing, layered architectures,
local and wide area networks and protocols, and internetworking.
COMP
347
Computer Networks I
3Science
Delivery Mode: Individualized-study
online.
Prerequisite: COMP 272. COMP 307, COMP 308 or COMP 314.
Precluded course: COMP 347 cannot be taken for credit if credit
has already been obtained for COMP 345.
COMP 347 is designed to teach students fundamentals of analysis, design,
and programming of computer networks. Although Java will be used for
programming throughout the course, the focus of the course will be on
the principles and theories of computer networking, as well certain
security and management issues with computer networks. This course is
a prerequisite for COMP 348.
COMP
348
Computer Networks II
3Science
Delivery Mode: Individualized-study
online.
Prerequisite: (COMP 345 or COMP 346 or COMP 347) and (COMP 268
or COMP 272 or COMP 308).
COMP 348 is designed to extend the students' knowledge and skills
in analysis, design, and programming of computer networks in Java. Compared
with COMP 347, the focus of COMP 348 will be on network/Internet/Web
programming in Java. In addition, some advanced network topics will
also be taught in this course.
COMP
361
Systems Analysis and Design
3Science
Delivery Mode: Individualized-study
online.
Prerequisite: COMP 200 OR CMIS 351, or professor approval. CMIS
301 is recommended but not required.
Precluded course: COMP 361 cannot be taken for credit if credit
has already been obtained for COMP 271.
This course gives an overview of the methodologies used in the analysis
and design of computer-based information systems. The course is designed
to provide students with a strong foundation in systems analysis and
design concepts, techniques, and tools. Although the course does not
assume knowledge of any specific hardware or software, students should
have at least a minimal computing background.
COMP 365
Introduction to User Support
3Science
Delivery Mode: Individualized-study
online.
Prerequisite: COMP361, or user support experience with professor
approval. Extensive experience with computer applications and excellent
oral and written communication skills are recommended.
COMP 365 provides the basic knowledge and skills required by the successful
user support analyst. Students will gain an understanding of user support
issues and requisite skills. This course requires that students be comfortable
with Windows, installing and uninstalling software, using a browser,
email, virus software, and the principles underlying each. It will augment
these skills with well-defined listening, communication, and problem-solving
strategies. Case tracking, developing, using, and maintaining a knowledge
base, and marketing user support activities as necessary components
of an efficient and cost-effective user support unit are also covered.
COMP 374
Unix System Administration
3Science
Delivery Mode: Individualized-study
online.
Prerequisite: COMP 315. Note: Students who are concerned about not meeting the prerequisite for this course are encouraged to contact the course coordinator before registering
UNIX is a multi-user operation system that has found wide use in networking environments. Students are required to install a Linux operating system on their own computer before starting this course.
Students completing the prerequisite course, COMP 315, are expected to have the required
knowledge and skills to install UNIX/Linux on their personal computers. There are many Linux releases on the market. Although there are differences between these releases, COMP 374 is designed to work for all. The textbook used will explain the original UNIX (BSD and AT&T) rather than deal with a specific version or distribution. Red Hat Linux is supplied to provide a common platform for all students. The course has six labs that are to be done on the student's system and submitted to the tutor for grading.
COMP
378
Introduction to Database Management
3Science
Delivery Mode: Individualized-study
online.
Prerequisite: COMP 361.
This course is aimed at students who are learning to design and manage
databases. It provides students with the fundamental skills needed to
develop relational and object-oriented databases on their own, to deal
with various types of databases, and to work as members of a team that
builds enterprise databases. The students will have hands-on training
by using Oracle Designer/2000, release 2. 1; Oracle Developer/2000,
release 2.1; and Personal Oracle 7, release 7.3.4. that will accompany
the textbook.
COMP
378
Introduction to Database Management
3Science
Delivery Mode: Individualized-study
online.
Prerequisite: COMP 361.
This course is aimed at students who are learning to design and manage
databases. It provides students with the fundamental skills needed to
develop relational and object-oriented databases on their own, to deal
with various types of databases, and to work as members of a team that
builds enterprise databases. The students will have hands-on training
by using Oracle Designer/2000, release 2. 1; Oracle Developer/2000,
release 2.1; and Personal Oracle 7, release 7.3.4. that will accompany
the textbook.
COMP
381
Systems Design and Implementation
3Science
Delivery Mode: Individualized-study
online.
Prerequisite: COMP 361 and COMP 378.
Precluded course: COMP 381 cannot be taken for credit if credit
has already been obtained for COMP 271.
This course provides Computing and Information Systems students with
a strong foundation in systems design and implementation concepts, methodologies,
techniques, and tools. The course covers the systems development life
cycle phases of logical and physical design and system implementation
and maintenance. The course incorporates the object-oriented approaches
used increasingly today, especially to develop small systems, as well
as more timely development approaches such as rapid application development
(RAD) and joint application development (JAD). The course includes the
use of a Computer-aided Systems Engineering (CASE) tool.
COMP
390
Computer Graphics
3Science
Delivery Mode: Individualized-study
online.
Prerequisite: COMP 307 or COMP 389 or COMP 272 (Java) and permission
of the professor and MATH 270.
COMP 390 is designed to teach students theoretical and applied aspects
of computer graphics. It covers such topics as basics of computer graphics
hardware, scanning algorithms, two-dimensional geometry, three-dimensional
geometry, three-dimensional graphics, elements of lighting, visual effects,
colour models, and advanced geometry.
COMP
418
Distributed and Multimedia Databases and Database Tuning
3Science
Delivery Mode: Individualized-study
online.
Prerequisites: COMP 361 and COMP 378.
This course is designed for students who are learning advanced topics
in the database area. It provides students with sound knowledge about
database systems and technologies that goes beyond the centralized relational
database systems and object-oriented database systems and concentrates
on distributed database systems. Students must consult with the course
tutor before purchasing their own copy of the software required in this
course.
COMP
456
Artificial Intelligence and Expert Systems Through PROLOG
3Science
Delivery Mode: Individualized-study
online.
Prerequisites: Math 215, COMP 272 and COMP 361.
COMP 456 provides an overview of the theory and technology of many
areas of the artificial intelligence field and concentrates on expert
systems. The course aims to provides learners with the necessary skills
to use and develop expert systems successfully. Students will have hands-on
training by using the skills they acquired from learning PROLOG to develop
an expert system shell. Students are asked to purchase their own copy
of a PROLOG compiler. Check with your tutor for the recommended version.
COMP
466 New. Entered December 6, 2002.
Website Technology
3Science
Delivery Mode: Individualized-study
online.
Prerequisites: COMP 348.
COMP 466 is designed to teach students some key technologies to the development of the World Wide Web sites. It extends the students' knowledge and skills in system analysis, computer networks and programming. Therefore, it is assumed that students have acquired sufficient knowledge and skills in computer organization and networking, system analysis and design, and programming in Java.
COMP
482
Human Factors in Computer Systems
3Science
Delivery Mode: Individualized-study
online.
Prerequisite: COMP 308 and COMP 361.
This course will provide students with a survey of the human factors
that affect computing systems design and will allow students to undertake
a project within a detailed focus area (the course professor reserves
the right to assign a project). The course will focus on hypermedia
design to support a collaborative learning system on the World Wide
Web. Most of the course materials are in HTML and available over the
Word Wide Web. Language option includes Java, VRML, and XML.
COMP
489
Distributed Systems in Java
3Science
Delivery Mode: Individualized-study
online.
Prerequisite: COMP 272 or COMP308
and COMP347;
Note:
Students who are concerned about not meeting the prerequisites for this
course are encouraged to contact the course
coordinator before registering.
COMP 489 focuses on the principles and applications of distributed
systems, providing the necessary information and intensive hands-on
practice for students. It includes a broad range of distributed computing
issues and concepts, such as: network (emphasizing the Internet and
intranets), distributed operating systems, processes, threads, Interprocess
Communication (IPC), memory management, distributed objects, distributed
file systems, transaction management, process management, distributed
synchronization, and distributed security. Moreover, COMP489 discusses
how to design and write distributed applications in Java. It covers
Java's RMI, Java JDBC, Java Security API, and CORBA.
COMP
490 Temporarily closed Jan. 1, 2003 to Dec. 31, 2003.
Applications Development with Emerging Technology: Multimedia with
Java
3Science
Delivery Mode: Individualized-study
online.
Prerequisite: COMP 308 and COMP 482.
This course is designed to apply the most current computing technology
development principles and the information system design process. It
is assumed that students have a basic knowledge of Java. The focus is
upon multimedia development and designing graphical user interfaces
in a Web environment. Students must have knowledge of networking to
be successful in a Web environment.
COMP
495-496
Computer and Information Systems Projects
3 eachScience
Delivery Mode: Individualized-study
online.
Prerequisite: Professor approval required and completion of all
required computing credits for the BA IS in the topic area or for the
BSc IS.
Precluded courses: COMP 495-496 cannot be taken for credit if credit
has already been obtained or SCIE 314 and SCIE 315 or SCIE 495 and SCIE
496.
In this course students will develop a project proposal in an applications
area they are interested in. After approval by the project coordinator
and an external expert, students will design and implement a system
to be evaluated by the external expert. Projects may be in the student's
or Athabasca University's work environment. A large project may be suitable
to receive credit for COMP 495 and COMP 496. This course is for students
who wish to carry out science-related projects in computer science or
information systems. A student may do one 3-credit project (COMP 495)
or two 3-credit projects (COMP 495 and COMP 496). At least 3 project
credits (COMP 495) are required for the degree. Registration may take
place any time during the year. Before registering, the student must
submit an acceptable project proposal. These courses are excluded from
the Challenge for Credit Policy.
CRIMINAL
JUSTICE (CRJS)
Refer also to LGST 430 The Canadian Legal
System.
Most of the courses in the Criminal Justice concentration of the Bachelor
of Professional Arts program are now offered in two delivery modes:
as Individualized study reading courses and as paced courses offered
by two Alberta colleges: Grant MacEwan Community College in Edmonton
and Lethbridge Community College in Lethbridge.
CRJS
350
Community Policing
3ReadingApplied Studies
Delivery Mode: Individualized
study. Grouped study.
Prerequisite: None.
In this course, students explore the evolution of policing to the present
day. Community policing is compared and contrasted with traditional
policing styles. Considerable time is spent studying changes in policing
orientation to an approach that is anticipatory and problem solving
in nature.
CRJS
352
Victims of Crimes
3 ReadingApplied Studies
Delivery Mode: Individualized
study. Grouped study.
Prerequisite: None.
This course will introduce students to theoretical perspectives of
victimology with specific practical concepts. Specifically, the crime
rates, compensation of crime, and characteristics of offenders will
be examined as well as overall crime patterns within a social context.
The course discusses the effects of victimization (psychological, physical
and social), subsequent recovery in relation to the crime and individual
characteristics of the victim, and considers the response to victims
of crime by Canadians and Canadian institutions.
CRJS
410
Special Needs Policing
3 ReadingApplied Studies
Delivery Mode: Individualized
study. Grouped study.
Prerequisite: None.
This course aims to provide students with a broad understanding of
the policing needs within a community, the diversity within a community,
and how needs change over time. By examining various special needs groups,
students will see that as the dynamics of a community change, so does
the way in which it is policed.
CRJS
420
Environmental Protection and Enforcement
3ReadingApplied Studies
Delivery Mode: Individualized
study. Grouped study.
Prerequisite: None.
The course will provide an overview of issues and laws related to environmental
protection and enforcement in Canada. Students will examine issues that
have lead to governmental regulatory responses and gain an understanding
of the many sources and types of law relevant to environmental protection.
The course examines the evolution of environmental law in Canada; provincial
environmental protection and enhancement acts will be both examined
and critiqued.
CRJS
425
White Collar Crime
3ReadingApplied Studies
Delivery Mode: Individualized
study. Grouped study.
Prerequisite: None.
The primary emphasis of this course is on the increasing costs of non-violent
crimescrimes perpetrated within the business environmentand
the ensuing enforcement difficulties. From accounting procedures, methods
of tracing funds, banking and financial record-keeping to interviewing
as applied to detecting and resolving financial crime, the course discusses
theoretical principles and Canadian law enforcement approaches.
CRJS
426
Aboriginal Government and Law
3ReadingApplied Studies
Delivery Mode: Individualized
study. Grouped study.
Prerequisite: None.
This course focuses on the fundamental intellectual underpinnings of
both the Aboriginal legal traditions and the Canadian legal traditions
and the resultant conflict. Students will learn about traditional, imposed
and contemporary definitions of Aboriginal government and their relevance
in the contemporary development and visions of Aboriginal government.
This course examines the continuing definition of the role that Aboriginal
people play in law and government from a number of different perspectives.
CRJS
427
Civil Liberties and Individual Rights
3ReadingApplied Studies
Delivery Mode: Individualized
study. Grouped study.
Prerequisite: None.
This senior 400-level course should be of relevance to everyone interested
in civil liberties and human rights. The course is based on the premise
that in a liberal, democratic, and secular society, citizens must be
given certain rights if the democratic structure is to be put in place
and maintained. The course will explain that in a civilized and democratic
society the rule of law is paramount: all citizens including the lawmakers,
are under an obligation to obey the law; and the laws have to be fair
and even-handed.
CRJS 487
Group/Independent Studies
3ReadingApplied Studies
Delivery Mode: Individualized
study.
Prerequisite: Professor approval required.
These projects are chosen in consultation with an instructor and intended
for pursuit by a student (or group of students) interested in an area
presented by one of the Criminal Justice courses. Students must complete
CRJS 350 and either SOCI 305 or SOCI 365 or equivalent courses from
another institution before applying for a 400-level project course.
Contact a Criminal Justice course coordinator for a project proposal
booklet.
CRJS 489
Alternate Dispute Resolution
3Applied Studies
Delivery Mode: Grouped
study.
Prerequisite: None.
The main objective of this course is to provide students with a theoretical
and practical understanding of alternate dispute resolution. The focus
will be on the main methods: negotiations and mediation. Basic principles
and techniques of various methods of dispute resolution will be introduced.
Different areas of the law and law enforcement in which such methods
are or could be used will be explored.
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