Course Description:

Knowledge of the fundamental operations of computers is essential in a program in computer

science. This course is designed to provide the student with an understanding of the structure

and operations of the digital computer including its history, how their systems are organized, the

logic used in the computer, the use of micro-technology in computers, a foundation in the

functioning of the computer at various levels including the instruction set level, the operating machine level and assembly language programming, and parallel computing concepts.

Prerequisite:

COM 203

Textbook:

Tanenbaum, A. S. (2013). Structured computer organization (6th ed.). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson. ISBN- 13: 978-0- 132-91652-3

Learning Outcomes:

The student will able to:

1.   Describe and explain the history of digital computers.

2.   Explain and demonstrate computer systems organization

3.   Demonstrate a knowledge of digital logic in computers

4.   Describe and explain concept and use of microarchitecture in computers

5.   Explain and utilize functionality at the instruction set architecture level, the operating machine level, and the assembly language level

6.   Describe and explain the concept of parallel computer architecture and its operations 7.   Demonstrate and explain the relevance of Integrity in using computers.

Core Value:

Integrity: The commitment of Saint Leo University to excellence demands that its members live  its mission and deliver on its promise. The faculty, staff, and students pledge to be honest, just, and consistent in word and deed.

Evaluation:

Assignments Percentage

Homework (8)                                     55

Discussion (8)                                    15

Total                                                   100%

Quizzes: Three quizzes will be given and will cover the material presented since the previous quiz.

Homework Questions/Problems: Students will perform exercises related to the content covered within the module.

Discussion/Participation: Students are encouraged to interact with each other and exchange

opinions of technical issues as well as the ethical issues of these technologies. This interaction can provide great opportunities to explore how these issues relate to our Core Values.

Assessment of the Learning Outcomes

Grading Scale:

Grade Score (%)

Course Schedule:

Module 1 Introduction to Computer Architecture

Objectives When you complete this module, you should be able to:

•    Summarize structured computer organization.

•    Describe the history of computers.

•    Categorize computer types.

•    Identify metrics units.

Readings Complete the following readings for this module:

•    Chapter 1