Department of Economics

Course: Introduction to Computer Science and Information Processing

Code: CSC201

Semester: A

Instructor: Ioannis Demetriou

1.  Objectives

(1)   To explain the fundamental principles of computer science, data processing, communications, networks, current trends like e-commerce, cloud computing and data science

(2)   To analyze the role of information systems in business

(3)   To exhibit economic theories in relation to information technologies and businesses

(4)   To train in quantitative methods with Microsoft Excel

By the end of this course the student will have acquired essential knowledge for information technologies and adequate training on Excel.

2.  Content

Computing principles, history of computing, numerical coding systems, information processing, file processing; Structure and operation of computer, operational systems and software, programming languages; Communication systems, networks, Internet, business information systems; Economic theories for information technologies; Quantitative methods with Excel, for instance, mathematical, statistical and economic functions, data management, plotting, and statistical distributions.

3.  Learning Objectives

Learning outcomes are based on knowledge pertaining to the bachelor’s level

Knowledge and understanding

The students

• demonstrate knowledge and understanding of computing principles from the beginning of the computers to the newest technologies, such as computing, data science and artificial intelligence

Understanding

The students

• understand the business information systems
• comprehend digital innovations

Acquire generic cognitive skills

The students

• are able to process data on Excel
• capable of handling complexities associated with information technologies

Communication

The students

• study in cooperation with others and at self-study level
• communicate results from methods they have taught

Learning strategies

The students

• exercise autonomy and initiative in carrying out the self-directed programme of study
• collaborate with peers and others in sharing knowledge

4. Technology Requirements

The student must have easy access to a computer with good internet capabilities and an internet connection. For online classes students should have a headset (possibly with microphone) for use during our live Webex sessions.

5. Laboratory work and assessment

Laboratory classes consist of about 20 students each. An outline of the lab-course is given in the appendix. Lab attendance is compulsory. Students are required to attend 8 laboratory classes. There will be weekly homework assignments. They will include both reading and working exercises on Excel. Students are required to turn in the assignments in order to pass the course. In general students are encouraged to put some time in to the homework, and some percentage of the final grade is obtained from the assignments. There will be office hours to answer questions.

6.  Grading

Students are required to attend at least 10 of the 13 classes. The grading of the course is based on completion of the laboratory work, which gives 40% of the grade, and the final exam, which gives 60% of the grade.  

7. The eclass URL

https://eclass.uoa.gr/courses/ECON198/

Bibliography

[1] Ι. Κ. Δημητρίου, Εισαγωγή στην Επιστήμη των Υπολογιστών και την Επεξεργασία Πληροφοριών, Εκδόσεις ΕΚΠΑ 2017

[2] Ι. Κ. Δημητρίου, Εφαρμογές Ποσοτικής Ανάλυσης με το Excel, Εκδόσεις ΕΚΠΑ 2017

[3] Philippe Breton, Ιστορία της Πληροφορικής, Δίαυλος 1991

[4] Peter J. Denning, Craig H. Martell, Great Principles of Computing, The MIT Press 2015

[5] Paul E. Ceruzzi, Computing – A Concise History, The MIT Press 2012

[6] Nayan B. Ruparella, Cloud Computing, The MIT Press 2016

[7] Peter Norton, Εισαγωγή στους Υπολογιστές, 6^η έκδοση, Εκδ. Τζιόλα 2015

Appendix. Laboratory classes