Computer Applications

General Information

• University: Salahaddin University-Erbil
• Department: Electrical Engineering Dept.
• My Status: Assistant Lecturer
• Level: BSc
• Year: 2009-2012

Course Description

This course provides fundamental computer literacy and productivity skills essential for engineering students. Designed for students who may have limited prior computer experience, the course introduces essential computing concepts, operating system fundamentals, and productivity software applications commonly used in academic and professional environments.

The curriculum focuses on practical computer skills including Windows operating system navigation, Microsoft Office applications (Word, PowerPoint, Excel), and engineering-specific applications of these tools. Students will develop proficiency in document creation, presentation design, data analysis, and spreadsheet modeling techniques relevant to engineering disciplines.

Through hands-on exercises and real-world projects, students will gain the computer skills necessary for academic success and professional development in engineering fields.

Prerequisites

• Basic computer literacy (recommended but not required)
• No prior programming experience required
• Willingness to learn new software applications

Course Objectives

Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:

• Navigate and use Windows operating system effectively for file and program management.
• Create, format, and manage professional documents using Microsoft Word.
• Design and deliver effective presentations using Microsoft PowerPoint.
• Perform calculations, data analysis, and create charts using Microsoft Excel.
• Apply engineering-specific techniques for data analysis and visualization.
• Use productivity software for academic and professional purposes.
• Understand basic computer concepts and terminology.

Course Outline

Module 1: Introduction to Computer Fundamentals

• Basic computer concepts and terminology
• Computer hardware and software components
• Operating system fundamentals
• File management and organization
• Computer security and best practices

Module 2: Windows Operating System

• Windows interface and navigation
• File and folder management
• Program installation and management
• System settings and customization
• Troubleshooting common issues

Module 3: Microsoft Word Fundamentals

• Word interface and document creation
• Text formatting and editing techniques
• Document structure and organization
• Tables, images, and multimedia elements
• Document templates and styles

Module 4: Advanced Word Features

• Document collaboration and review
• Mail merge and automation
• Advanced formatting and layout
• Document protection and security
• Professional document design principles

Module 5: Microsoft PowerPoint Basics

• PowerPoint interface and slide creation
• Presentation design principles
• Text, images, and multimedia integration
• Slide transitions and animations
• Presentation delivery techniques

Module 6: Advanced PowerPoint Features

• Master slides and templates
• Advanced animations and effects
• Interactive presentations and hyperlinks
• Presentation rehearsal and timing
• Professional presentation strategies

Module 7: Microsoft Excel Fundamentals

• Excel interface and workbook management
• Data entry and cell formatting
• Basic formulas and functions
• Data organization and sorting
• Simple charts and graphs

Module 8: Advanced Excel for Engineering

• Complex formulas and functions
• Data analysis and statistical functions
• Advanced charting and visualization
• Pivot tables and data summarization
• Engineering calculations and modeling

Module 9: Engineering Applications of Excel

• Mathematical and engineering functions
• Data analysis for engineering problems
• Chart creation for technical reports
• Statistical analysis and regression
• Engineering project planning and tracking

Module 10: Integration and Workflow

• Combining Office applications
• Data sharing between applications
• Professional document workflows
• File formats and compatibility
• Best practices for productivity

Textbooks

• [Recommended] “Microsoft Office Step by Step” by Joan Lambert and Curtis Frye
• [Optional] “Excel for Engineers and Scientists” by S. C. Bloch

Assessment

• Midterm Exam (20%)
• Activities and Projects (30%)
  • Practical Exercises (10%)
  • Document Creation Projects (10%)
  • Presentation Skills (5%)
  • Excel Analysis Projects (5%)
• Final Exam (50%)