Understanding and Using Personal Computers, is an introductory course designed for students not majoring or minoring in Computer Science. Topics include hardware, software, and their applications to the arts, sciences, and everyday life. Introduction to the fundamental concepts and techniques of operating systems, word processing, spreadsheets, database management systems, structured programming, graphics, telecommunications, networks, and security are emphasized.

Hands-on introduction to computers, computation, and the basics of computer hardware and software. Students will have experience during the instructed microcomputer lab with a number of software environments including an operating system, a word processor, a spreadsheet and a database package. The course will focus on problem solving and programming with the context of these packages. In addition, students will acquire the skills needed to learn other software packages on their own.