Course Information
| Course Number | CI2000 (also CI1154, CI1175) |
| Course Title | Computer Fundamentals |
| Credits | 3.0 Semester Credit Hours |
| Clock Hours | 45 Lecture / 0 Lab |
| Out-of-Class Hours | 90 hours |
| Total Learning Hours | 135 hours (5 weeks) |
| Delivery Mode | Online (asynchronous) |
| Prerequisites | None |
| Accreditation | ABHES |
| Textbook | Beskeen, D., et al. (2017). Illustrated Microsoft Office 365 & Office 2019. Cengage. |
Course Description
This course provides students with foundational computer skills essential for allied healthcare careers. Through scenario-based activities set in healthcare workplace contexts, students explore Windows, web browsers, Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Excel, culminating in healthcare database concepts. Each week builds toward career-ready competence with Microsoft Office tools used daily in medical offices, clinics, and health systems.
Students engage with realistic healthcare scenarios — from organizing digital patient files to creating professional documents, presentations, and data dashboards — building the digital literacy every modern healthcare professional needs.
Course Objectives
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
| CO | Objective | Week(s) |
|---|---|---|
| CO-1 | Explore key computer software terms and concepts. | 1 |
| CO-2 | Investigate Microsoft Windows features. | 1, 2 |
| CO-3 | Illustrate knowledge of web browsers. | 1 |
| CO-4 | Create documents using MS Word. | 2 |
| CO-5 | Create presentations using MS PowerPoint. | 3 |
| CO-6 | Develop spreadsheet using MS Excel. | 4, 5 |
| CO-7 | Describe how healthcare information technology works within the context of the health care provider community. | 1, 4, 5 |
Grading & Assessment
Assessment Components
| Component | Frequency | Weekly | Total | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Weekly Assessments (LMS Quiz) | 1 per week (15 questions) | 50 pts | 250 pts | 25% |
| Discussion Forums | 1 per week | 60 pts | 300 pts | 30% |
| Application Assignments | 1 per week | 90 pts | 450 pts | 45% |
| Total | 200 pts | 1,000 pts | 100% |
Grading Scale
| Grade | Range | Description |
|---|---|---|
| A | 89.5 – 100% | Outstanding |
| B | 79.5 – 89.49% | Above Average |
| C | 69.5 – 79.49% | Average |
| D | 59.5 – 69.49% | Below Average |
| F | Below 59.5% | Failure |
Weekly Schedule
Computing Foundations & Professional Communication
By the end of this week, you will confidently navigate your computer, organize files for a healthcare workplace, and communicate professionally using email and web research tools.
Document Creation with Microsoft Word
By the end of this week, you will create, format, and manage professional healthcare documents using Microsoft Word.
Presentations with Microsoft PowerPoint
By the end of this week, you will design and deliver effective healthcare presentations using Microsoft PowerPoint.
Spreadsheets with Microsoft Excel
By the end of this week, you will build, calculate, and analyze healthcare data using Microsoft Excel formulas and functions.
Advanced Excel & Healthcare Databases
By the end of this week, you will visualize healthcare data with charts, understand database concepts, and use advanced Excel features for data-driven reporting.
Course Policies
Participation & Attendance
Students are expected to log in regularly and engage with all course materials, discussions, and assignments each week. Consistent participation is essential for building skills progressively. UMA institutional attendance policy applies.
Discussion Requirements
- Initial Post: Due by Wednesday of each week (minimum 150 words, substantive and on-topic)
- Peer Responses: Minimum of 2 substantive responses to classmates, due by Sunday
- Posts should demonstrate critical thinking and connect course concepts to healthcare practice
Assignment Submissions
- All assignments must be submitted through the LMS in the required format (.docx, .xlsx, .pptx)
- Follow the naming convention:
LastName_FirstName_Week#_Assignment - Review the assignment rubric before submitting to ensure all criteria are met
Technology Requirements
- Access to a computer with Microsoft Office 365 (provided through UMA)
- Reliable internet connection for accessing course materials and submitting work
- A modern web browser (Microsoft Edge, Chrome, or Firefox recommended)
Accessibility
UMA is committed to providing equal access to all students. If you require accommodations due to a disability, please contact the Office of Student Accessibility Services. All course materials are designed to meet WCAG 2.1 AA accessibility standards.
Student Support
UMA provides multiple support channels including tutoring services, the Student Success Center, technical support for Office 365, and your instructor's virtual office hours. Don't hesitate to reach out if you need help.
Required Materials
Textbook
Beskeen, D., Cram, C., Duffy, J., Friedrichsen, L., & Reding, E. (2017). Illustrated Microsoft Office 365 & Office 2019. Cengage Learning.
Software
- Microsoft Office 365 (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) — provided through UMA student license
- Microsoft Windows 10 or 11
- Web browser (Edge, Chrome, or Firefox)