Information Technology Basics for Schools

This course is the first in a series of Computer Science Authorization courses that enable teachers to be credentialed to teach Computer Science and is designed to fulfill requirements for the California Computer Science Supplemental Authorization, but may be taken by those not seeking the Supplemental Authorization.

NOTE: The 4-unit CSED-900 course is equivalent to the 3-unit CSED-750 course that meets the Computer Science Supplemental Authorization requirements for the State of California. Notify the CE office if you wish to use this course to fulfill requirements for the California Computer Science Supplemental Authorization and we will register you for the CSED-750 course.

Technology is relevant, useful, and meaningful in the school setting, and learning the basics of how to incorporate it within the classroom is necessary. It is important that educators understand how to include various technologies in lesson plans and use them as additional teaching resources.

What is Information Technology?

In the broadest sense, information technology is the use of any computer or computer system, to create, process, secure, and exchange electronic data. This includes, but is not limited to, computer hardware, software programs and apps, internet and cloud computer, computer networks, databases, artificial intelligence, and file management. Information technology is now firmly in everyday life and in all areas of study and work.

What You’ll Learn in this Course

In this course, educators will learn Information Technology basics that can be used within the classroom such as: computer hardware, software, cloud computing, networking, security, databases, and file management. Educators will learn common terminology used within IT and how to create lesson plans for teaching technology to students at any grade level.

Course Topics

• Computer Hardware, Binary & Digital Storage
• Software & Operating Systems
• The Internet & Cloud Computer
• Networks & Communications
• Computer Security
• Databases & Artificial Intelligence
• File Management, Backup & Recovery

“The class was very informative and provided a comprehensive understanding of information technology. The lesson plans created for the final project provide the foundation to teach the curriculum to students.”
– Educator, California

“I learned a lot in this class about computer science. The assignments were meaningful and I am able to use this information as building blocks for my next course. I hope that they will offer more classes in this field!"
– Educator, Illinois

NOTE: Required book must be acquired separately.

This course is applicable towards Computer Science Authorization and Licensure.