A variety of learning strategies will be employed, including 18 hours of lectures and 18 hours of tutorial sessions.

Independent learning time will be based around reading, typically course text books, magazines, web sites etc, assignment work in the labs and revision for examination.

Introduction to computer hardware
Number systems: binary, denary, hexadecimal
Representation of data within the computer: bits, bytes, ASCII
The operation of the CPU and memory (fetch/execute cycle, registers, ALU etc and RAM, ROM, cache, virtual memory)
System Buses: data, address, control, PCI, ISA
Ports: AGP, serial, parallel, firewire, USB 1+2
Storage technologies: floppy, hard disk, tape, CD-ROM, DVD

Operating Systems
Develop an adequate knowledge of an operating system in particular
Windows environment
Disk housekeeping procedures

Introduction to networking
Network topologies: physical bus, ring, star, mesh etc and logical bus, ring
Network devices: repeater, NIC, hub, switch, router, servers, cables
Network protocols: TCP/IP, FTP, OSI model
Network subnetting (Class C addresses only)
Network operating systems

Practical aspects covering
Making straight through/crossover cables and testing
Configuration of operating systems for file sharing through a peer to peer network
Building small peer to peer networks with computer systems, cables, hub/switch
Performing subnet calculations and configuring a PC with appropriate IP and Subnet Mask addresses

PC's that can be configured for use on small networks/configurable operating systems
Hubs/switches
CAT5 cable
Cable making equipment and testers

Assessment consists of two elements:-

Practical Test of duration 1 hour, weighted at 50% covering learning outcomes 3 and 4.
In-class test of 45 minutes, weighted at 50% covering learning outcomes 1, 2 and 3 - final assessment.

CCNA Jumpstart Networking and Internetworking Basics, Patrick Ciccarelli, 2002 Sybex Inc, ISBN: 0782141749

Understanding Computer Science, Ray Bradley, 2001, Nelson Thornes Ltd, ISBN: 0748761470

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