Online Computer Science
CIS 105 - Computer Applications and Information Technology
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Overview
This course is part of the Applied Business Analytics Certificate. Learn more about the certificate here.
This course is an introductory course with a dual focus: one focus on organizations and another focus on the individuals who work for them. At the individual level, we will examine how business decision making can be improved when supporting technologies like spreadsheets are leveraged. From the organizational perspective, we will cover strategic analysis frameworks and business strategies that can be fine-tuned for competition in an increasingly digitally transformed world. Humans are inherently limited in how they might approach problem solving because of the cognitive biases we all bring to decision situations. Understanding these biases and how to confront them using the spreadsheet modeling knowledge gained in this class will change the way you face and solve problems. We will cover practical decisions you will deal with in many different personal and professional business settings. You will build models in spreadsheet software that serve to help you analyze problem situations in a completely new light.
Course prerequisites and requirements
To be successful in this course, we recommend English language fluency and computer literacy. We also encourage you to make sure your laptop or desktop computer meets the technical requirements.
Knowledge of basic Excel functionality will be very helpful in setting you up for success in this course.
Quick facts
Next start date:
Jan. 14, 2025 (8 weeks)
- Credits: 3
- Length: On-demand or 8 weeks
- Cost: $25 + $400
What you’ll learn
- Use a dual focus approach to study information systems from both tactical and organizational viewpoints in order to advance a broad understanding of digital transformation’s impact on people, business processes and organizational strategy
- Understand the limitations cognitive biases can inflict on individuals and learn how business decision making can be enhanced through judicious use of supporting technologies that enable leading-edge modeling and analysis
- Describe industry competition in an age of digital transformation using frameworks and constructs that enable a fundamental level of competitive strategy analysis
- Debate how well digitally transforming industry competitors are positioned for sustained advantage by applying concepts and contexts related to platforms and competition in two-(or more)-sided platform-based market spaces
- Leverage this first course in business to understand the exciting career paths available now – and those that may be created as digital transformation continues at break-neck pace
What to expect in class
Readings, Excel activities, content mastery activities, quizzes, midterm, final, and reflection boards
Exams and grading
30%
Content Mastery Exercises (12)
20%
Quizzes (7)
20%
Midterm Exam
30%
Final Exam
Transcript
This course appears on your transcript identically to how it appears on the transcript of an enrolled ASU student who has taken the course on one of ASU’s campuses. Course attendance dates will be listed on your transcript. An on-demand course will appear on your transcript in the session you complete the course.
This course satisfies 3 credit hours toward the QTRS: Quantitative Reasoning General Studies requirement at Arizona State University. It is strongly encouraged that you consult with your institution of choice to determine how these credits will be applied to their degree requirements prior to transferring your credit.
