Tom Hankins, instructor                                       Phones:  800-642-9842, x62044 or 304-746-2044 (w)

E-mail: thankins@marshall.edu                                          304-562-0321 (h)    304-543-9258 (c)

I. Purpose and objectives

This course is an introduction to the use and design of information systems in organizations. Those who complete it successfully will:

                  ■    Understand the development and use of information systems in organizations

                  ■    Be able to describe the fundamental types of information systems

                  ■    Be familiar with the basic computer technology concepts and the associated technical vocabulary

                  ■    Be aware of the relationship of information systems to organizational level and the role of information systems in management and decision making at each level

 ■    Be able to work successfully within a workgroup to accomplish group objectives

II. Course requirements and grades

Attend class. Complete homework and project assignments. Read assigned material before coming to class. Class sessions offer you opportunities to discuss what you have read, apply your ideas to problem situations, and learn from others in the class.

Prerequisites: You are expected to know how to use and have access to a spreadsheet program (123, Excel, Quattro Pro, or something similar) and a database program, preferably Access.

Your grade for the class will be based on homework and small group project assignments and my evaluation of your class participation.

Grading will necessarily be somewhat subjective. The quality and professionalism of your written material will be major factors in your grades.

My general guide in assigning grades is that an 'A' indicates achievement of distinction at the graduate level, a 'B' indicates meeting acceptable standards of achievement, and a grade of 'C' indicates work below the expected standards for graduate students.

III. Text

Experiencing MIS                                                                                                                           David M. Kroenke        Pearson/Prentice-Hall, 2008

IV. Tentative course outline and assignments