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Next Step Program Course Descriptions

Computer Applications

This course is an introductory course in basic computer orientation to hardware and implementation of software applications in Telecommunications.  Students will use

various software packages to create documents, spreadsheets, graphs, databases and presentations.  The student will utilize this knowledge to solve problems and transfer information via electronic medium.  Lectures, interactive learning and demonstrations will be employed.  Laboratory exercises and presentations will be required.

Course Objectives:   

The objective of this course is to introduce the student to Microsoft Windows XP, Office software, and basic networking.  At the completion of the course students should be able to:

1.           Demonstrate a working knowledge of the Windows XP environment

2.           Perform regular computer maintenance

a.        Disk defragmentation

b.       Virus, adware, spyware protection

c.        Windows updates

d.       Data Backup

3.           Demonstrate the use of integrated software packages for:

a.        word processing

b.       spreadsheets (including Lists)

c.        presentation graphics

4.           Understand basic networking concepts

a.                    Connecting to campus network

b.                   Network printing

c.                    Wireless networking

5.             Understand and incorporate the umbrella competencies

The first course in a two-semester sequence of intermediate algebra and trigonometry with technical applications. Topics include: operations in the real number system, expressions and functions, first-degree equations,  properties of lines, systems of linear equations, trigonometric functions,  geometry (perimeters, areas, volumes of common figures), polynomials, exponents, algebraic products and factoring, algebraic fractions and operations, rational expressions, radical expressions, quadratic equations, and graphs of functions.

Overall Goals of Course:

1. To provide an integrated treatment of math topics essential for a sound technical math background.

2. To teach the transfer of mathematical concepts and skills to applications in telecommunications.

3. To increase analytical and computational skills, including use of a graphing calculator and the laptop computer.

4. To develop a systematic approach to problem solving.

5. To increase reading comprehension in mathematics.

6. To provide sufficient skills so that the student will be able to effectively deal with mathematical requirements in other allied courses requiring a technical math background.

7. To function as teams to learn team building skills while solving problems.

Student Performance/Behavioral Objectives:

At the completion of the course the student should be able to:

1.     Demonstrate understanding of real, rational, and irrational numbers.

2.     Demonstrate and understanding of operations with signed numbers.

3.     Demonstrate the use of the laws of exponents

4.     Demonstrate the understanding of Order of Operations.

5.     Demonstrate the fundamental algebraic operations and terminology of algebraic expressions

6.     Evaluate literal expressions

7.     Solve first-degree equations with one unknown

8.     Analyze and solve direct and inverse proportions.

9.     Analyze and solve word problems involving the use of linear and rational equations, and functions.

10.   Graph and interpret functions.

11.   Demonstrate multiplication of algebraic expressions using special products, long multiplication, and the FOIL method.

12.   Demonstrate long division of polynomials.

13.   Use various methods to factor algebraic expressions.

14.   Demonstrate various operations with algebraic fractions

15.   Solve fractional equations

16.   Change a number to Scientific Notation and vice versa.

17.   Solve Quadratic Equations by Factoring and Quadratic Formula.

18.   Solve Incomplete Quadratic equations.

19.   Use the Cartesian Coordinate System to graph and interpret an equation of  two variables.

20.   Demonstrate knowledge of the Slope-intercept form.

21.   Demonstrate knowledge of the Point-Slope form.

22.   Solve systems of linear equations by graphing, Addition Method, Substitution Method, and by Determinants.

23.   Identify geometric shapes and formulas (perimeter, area, volume) and use in applications.

24.   Define and evaluate trigonometric functions from 0 degrees to 90 degrees and their inverse.

25.   Analyze and solve right triangles

26.   Demonstrate the use of basic metric units and dimensional analysis.

Computer/Calculator Skills:

1.        Convert decimal degrees to Degree-Minute-Second to Radians

2.        Determine trigonometric Functions and the inverse

3.        Determine powers and roots

4.        Use scientific notation and Engineering notation

5.        Solving real functions using the graphing calculator and computer

Calculator/Computer  Skills:

1.     Convert degrees to radians and the reverse

2.        Convert degrees, minutes, seconds to decimal and the reverse

3.     Evaluate trigonometric functions and the inverse

4.     Powers and Roots

5.     Scientific Notation and Engineering Notation

6.     Formula Input

7.     Solve Simultaneous Equations

8.     Roots of Polynomials

9.     Graphing of Equations: linear, and higher order.

10.   Solution to Systems of Equations

11.   Function Evaluation

This is the second course in a two semester sequence of intermediate algebra and trigonometry with technical applications.  Topics include the operations of exponents and radicals, exponential and logarithmic functions and equations, trig functions of any angle, radians, sinusoidal functions and graphing, vectors, complex numbers and their applications, oblique triangles, inequalities, introduction to statistics and an intuitive approach to calculus.  The graphing calculator, a laptop computer, and umbrella competencies will be integrated throughout the course.

Course Objectives:   

At the completion of the course the student should be able to:

1.     Simplify algebraic radicals

2.     Convert fractional exponents to radicals and the reverse

3.     Demonstrate fundamental operations in radicals

4.     Solve equations with radicals

5.     Convert degrees to radians and the reverse

6.     Evaluate trig functions and their inverses for angles     measured in degrees and radians

7.     Solve oblique triangles using the law of sine and/or law of cosines.

8.     Graphically add vectors

9.     Solve vector problems by trig using rectangular and polar forms.

10.   Sketch and interpret the graph of sinusoidal, exponential, logarithmic functions and inequalities.

11.   Perform fundamental operations on algebraic terms involving exponents and radicals.

12.   Covert complex numbers in various forms: rectangular, polar, exponential   

13.   Perform the fundamental operations (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division) using the rectangular form of complex numbers

14.   Perform multiplication and division of complex numbers in polar and exponential form.

15.   Using DeMoivre’s Theorem raise complex numbers to powers and roots

16.   Demonstrate the use of common logs and natural logs

17.   Solve exponential and logarithmic equations

18.   Graph exponential functions using log-log and semi-log paper.

19.   Summarize and interpret data using frequency distribution, measures of central tendency and measures of dispersion.

20.   Find lines of best fit given data

21.   Apply process control and quality assurance

22.   Develop an intuitive feel for the concepts of limits, derivative (instantaneous rate of change), integral (area under a curve).

Overall Goals of the Course:

1.     To provide an integrated treatment of math topics which are essential for a solid mathematical background for the telecommunication technician.

2.     To demonstrate the transfer of mathematical concepts and skills to applications within telecommunications.

3.     To increase computational and graphing skills using the graphing calculator and the computer.

4.     To develop a systematic approach to problem solving.

5.     To provide sufficient mathematical skills so a student will be able to successfully deal with mathematical requirements of allied courses.

6.     To increase awareness and use of the umbrella competencies, particularly team building skills while solving problems.

This course presents topics in hardware and systems as used in the telecommunications

industry. Electrical and digital circuits are explored.  Binary numbers systems are discussed as applied to telecommunications equipment. Students will explore hardware to

the modular level. Students will demonstrate and simulate digital circuits.

Course Objectives:

At the end of the course the student will be able to use the laptop for the following activities:

1.        Save and retrieve files required by the instructor.

2.        Use the computer as an analytical tool.

3.        Log onto BlackBoard and download and upload files.

4.        Simulate a simple DC circuit using a software application. Simulate a simple logic circuits and identify inputs and outputs.

5.        Describe the behavior of voltage, current, and resistance, in a series and a parallel circuits.

6.        Convert numbers among the binary, decimal, octal, and hexadecimal numbering systems.

7.        Describe the relationship between digital and analog quantities.

8.        Describe digital computer organization and operation including the CPU, motherboard, and memory.

9.        Explain different types of primary and secondary storage devices.

10.     Describe and verify the proper operation of peripheral devices.

In addition to these objectives, students will do the following:

11.     Given a supplemental assignment or an activity assignment, develop a technical report (using a computer) in one of the areas described in items above.

a.        use the library, internet and other sources to collect supplemental information to write a technical report which includes an introduction, main body, summary.

b.       (develop a formal laboratory report including objectives, theory, procedures, equipment, schematics, calculated/ measured data, and conclusion.

12.     Given the specifications for a hardware project, students shall:

a.        work productively as a team , practicing project leadership, interpersonal skills, and conflict resolution.

b.       practice problem solving via the planning and organizing of the project

c.        obtain materials needed for the project and construct the unit.

d.       test the unit to project specifications, and create necessary documentation.

e.        assess the overall quality of the teamwork, and of the project.

f.         demonstrate leadership

g.       develop and deliver to his/her colleagues a 10-minute oral presentation.

13.     Listen and think critically, apply mathematical procedures and quantitative methods, logically troubleshoot electronic circuits and propose corrective measures.

In this course students will be working with hardware and software installation with an introduction of the personal computer fundamentals.  Students will connect a personal computer to a network, and install and setup a printer.  The course will cover managing and supporting Windows.  Configure user related issues and customization.  Learning how to maintain a computer and troubleshooting fundamentals.  Students will connect a personal computer to a network, and install and setup a printer.  An optional topic would cover Home Technology Integration including surveillance and home automation.  The course is composed of lecture and in-class demonstration.

Course Objectives:

At the end of the course the student will be able to use the laptop for the following activities:

1.        Save and retrieve files required by the instructor.

2.        Use the computer as an analytical tool.

3.        Log onto BlackBoard and download and upload files.

4.        Apply the Course Competencies for appropriate study techniques as outlined in Bb

5.        Identify the advantages and disadvantages of the different Operating Systems

6.        Describe the installation of hardware components and install an Operating System

7.        Explain and use different troubleshooting tools and utility software

8.        Analyze the difference and similarities from personal computers to notebooks, tablets, PDAs and other Handheld Devices

9.        List the different types of printers and demonstrate how to setup a printer

10.     Demonstrate a basic understanding of networks

11.     Show how to manage and support Windows security, registry, recovery methods

12.     Demonstrate how to customize the computer for each individual customer use

13.     Explain how to work with support services

In addition to these objectives, students will do the following:

12.   Given a supplemental assignment or an activity assignment, develop a technical report (using a computer) in one of the areas described in items above.

a.        use the library, internet and other sources to collect supplemental information to write a technical report which includes an introduction, main body, summary.

b.       (develop a formal laboratory report including objectives, theory, procedures, equipment, schematics, calculated/ measured data, and conclusion.

13.   Given the specifications for a hardware project, students shall:

a.        work productively as a team , practicing project leadership, interpersonal skills, and conflict resolution.

b.       practice problem solving via the planning and organizing of the project

c.        obtain materials needed for the project and construct the unit.

d.       test the unit to project specifications, and create necessary documentation.

e.        assess the overall quality of the teamwork, and of the project.

f.         demonstrate leadership

g.       develop and deliver to his/her colleagues a 10-minute oral presentation.

In this course students learn to analyze DC and AC passive circuits using Ohm’s

Law, Kirchhoff’s laws,  Superposition. RC and RL circuits are analyzed for impedance and phase angles; Troubleshooting, analysis by computer simulation using simulation software, and telecommunication applications are stressed throughout.

Course Objectives:

INSTRUCTORS shall make every effort to incorporate the following course competencies: Problem solving, teamwork, project leadership, quality, contextual learning, technology and service delivery, and customer focus.

NOTE THAT SUGGESTED TEAMWORK APPROACHES ARE GIVEN IN THE UMBRELLA COMPETENCIES COMMUNITY IN BLACKBOARD

STUDENTS shall demonstrate the following competencies:

1.        Use the laptop for the following activities:

a.        Save and retrieve Microsoft Office files, Circuit files, Adobe pdf files, and any other files as required by the instructor

b.       Use the computer as an analytical tool, know how to use computer simulation software to solve DC and AC problems, print solutions

c.        Collect data and create EXCEL files with the data, print graphs

d.       Log on to Blackboard, and download and upload files with Bb

2.        Apply the following Course Competencies:

a.        Apply appropriate study techniques in the learning process as outlined in Bb

b.       Practice the competencies to add value to every aspect of the course

c.        Participate in teamwork, leadership principles, problem solving, customer focus, technology/service delivery, and generate quality work

3.     Identify the characteristics of DC and AC sources, and calculate their effect on voltage, current, and power in passive networks.

4.     Describe the V-I characteristics of resistors, capacitors, inductors, and utilize these circuit elements with DC and AC excitation. AC circuit analysis shall be based on the use of complex numbers.

5.     Given a series or parallel RL or RC circuit driven by a sinusoidal source, choose and calculate using one or more of the following methods of circuit analysis:

a.        Ohm’s Law, Kirchhoff’s Voltage Law Kirchhoff’s Current Law

b.       Voltage divider rule, Current divider rule

c.        Superposition Theorem

d.       Internal resistance and the Maximum Power Transfer Theorem

6.     Given an RC or RL series circuit driven by a switched DC source, calculate the time constant and any current or voltage at any time as required, using the universal time constant curve.

5.        Follow and describe prescribed lab test procedures, set up equipment, take measurements, interpret results, and run computer simulations. Interpret schematic diagrams and construct breadboard circuits. Troubleshoot circuits.

8.     Given a supplemental assignment or an activity assignment, develop a technical report (using a computer) in one of the areas described  above.

a.        use the library, internet and other sources to collect supplemental information to write a technical report which includes an introduction, main body, summary.

b.       develop a formal laboratory report including objectives, theory, procedures, equipment, schematics, calculated/ measured data, and conclusion.

9.     Given the specifications for a hardware project, students shall:

a.        select and work productively with other students as partners, using interpersonal skills, and conflict resolution.

b.       practice problem solving via the planning and organizing of the project

c.        obtain materials needed for the project and construct the unit using schematics, assembly drawings, and appropriate soldering or wiring techniques.

d.       test the unit to project specifications, and create necessary documentation, i.e. theory of operation, schematics, assembly drawings, test procedure(s) and instructions on how to use the project.

e.        demonstrate leadership

f.         assess the overall quality of the teamwork, and of the project.

g.       develop and deliver to his/her colleagues a 10-minute oral presentation.

10.   Listen and think critically, apply mathematical procedures and quantitative methods, logically troubleshoot electronic circuits and propose corrective measures.

In this course students are taught the characteristics of amplifiers using opamps with respect to amplification, dB, frequency response, and input and output impedance. Opamp applications such as inverting and non-inverting amps, summing amps, averaging amps, and comparators are introduced with emphasis on the uses of these devices in the telecom industry. Electro-optical devices, such as LEDs, laser diodes, and photodiodes, are

studied including uses in the telecom industry. Diodes and transistors are conceptually introduced. Transformers are introduced in connection with power supplies. Diodes are applied as switches in linear and switching power supplies. The frequency response of passive networks and amplifiers is measured. Cutoff frequencies, rolloff, bandwidth, and magnitude and phase are discussed and visualized via Bode plots.  Troubleshooting and analysis by computer simulation software is stressed throughout.

Course Objectives:

INSTRUCTORS shall make every effort to incorporate the following course competencies: Problem solving, teamwork, project leadership, quality, contextual learning, technology and service delivery, and customer focus.

NOTE THAT SUGGESTED TEAMWORK APPROACHES ARE GIVEN IN THE UMBRELLA COMPETENCIES COMMUNITY IN BLACKBOARD

STUDENTS shall demonstrate the following competencies:

1.     Use the laptop for the following activities:

a.        Save and retrieve Microsoft Office files, Circuit Simulation software files, Adobe pdf files, and any other files as required by the instructor.

b.       Use the computer as an analytical tool to make calculations, draw graphs, use computer simulation software to solve Electronics problems, print solutions.

c.        Collect data and create EXCEL files with the data, print graphs.

d.       Log on to Blackboard, and download and upload files with Bb.

2.        Apply the following Course Competencies:

a.        Apply appropriate study techniques in the learning process as outlined in Bb

b.       Practice the competencies to add value to every aspect of the course:  Participate in teamwork, leadership principles, problem solving, customer focus, technology/service delivery, and generate quality work

3.     Describe the function of an amplifier with respect to gain and frequency response.

4.     Find and interpret IC Op Amp specification sheets.

5.     Analyze and design inverting and non-inverting IC Op Amp circuits for a specified gain.

6.     Identify, describe, and calculate the behavior of specialty Op Amp circuits such as buffer amplifiers, summing amps, comparators, and sample/hold circuits.

7.     Describe the characteristics of light radiation and the operation of special purpose diodes:

a.        Emission of light by LEDs and lasers

b.       Detection of light by photodiodes

8.     Describe the operation of diodes applied to linear and switching power supplies.

9.     Describe the operation of transformers applied to power supplies

10.   Calculate and describe the frequency response of passive networks; generate Bode magnitude and phase plots.

11.   Follow and describe prescribed lab test procedures, set up equipment, take measurements, interpret results, and run computer simulations. Interpret schematic diagrams and construct breadboard circuits. Troubleshoot electronic circuits.

12.   Given a supplemental assignment or an activity assignment, develop a technical report (using a computer) in one of the areas described in items 1-11 above.

a.        use the library, internet and other sources to collect supplemental information to write a technical report which includes an introduction, main body, summary.

b.       develop a formal laboratory report including objectives, theory, procedures, equipment, schematics, calculated/ measured data, and conclusion.

13.   Given the specifications for a hardware project, students shall:

a.        work productively as a team , practicing project leadership, interpersonal skills, and conflict resolution.

b.       practice problem solving via the planning and organizing of the project

c.        obtain materials needed for the project and construct the unit.

d.       test the unit to project specifications, and create necessary documentation.

e.        assess the overall quality of the teamwork, and of the project.

f.         demonstrate leadership

g.       develop and deliver to his/her colleagues a 10-minute oral presentation.

14.   Listen and think critically, apply mathematical procedures and quantitative methods, logically troubleshoot electronic circuits and propose corrective measures.

Students practice the analysis and application of advanced electronic circuits as applied to the telecommunications industry. Topics include frequency response of active filters, oscillators; amplitude modulation, frequency modulation, phase locked loops; pulse modulation concepts; and introduction to television; theoretical and hands-on troubleshooting of test circuits, and analysis by computer simulation.

Course Objectives:

INSTRUCTORS shall make every effort to incorporate the following course competencies: Problem solving, teamwork, project leadership, quality, contextual learning, technology and service delivery, and customer focus.

NOTE THAT SUGGESTED TEAMWORK APPROACHES ARE GIVEN IN THE UMBRELLA COMPETENCIES COMMUNITY IN BLACKBOARD

STUDENTS shall demonstrate the following competencies:

1.     Use the laptop for the following activities:

a.        Save and retrieve Microsoft Office files, CircuitMaker files, Adobe pdf files, and any other files as required by the instructor

b.       Use the computer as an analytical tool, know how to use computer simulation software to solve Electronics problems, print solutions

c.        collect data and create EXCEL files with the data, print graphs

d.       log on to Blackboard, and download and upload files with Bb

2.        Apply the following Course Competencies:

a.        Apply appropriate study techniques in the learning process as outlined in Bb

b.       Practice the competencies to add value to every aspect of the course:

c.        Participate in teamwork, leadership principles, problem solving, customer focus, technology/service delivery, and generate quality work

3.     Describe and analyze the operation of active filter circuits.

4.     Calculate and describe the operation of oscillators.

5.        Discuss transmission and reception principles.

6.        Describe and analyze amplitude modulation.

7.     Describe and analyze frequency modulation.

8.     Describe and analyze the operation of phase locked loops.

9.        Describe and analyze pulse modulation.

10.     Describe multiplexing concepts.

11.     Describe the concepts of Analog and Digital TV

12.   Follow and describe prescribed lab test procedures, set up equipment, take measurements, interpret results, and run computer simulations.  Interpret schematic diagrams and construct breadboard circuits.  Troubleshoot electronic circuits.

13.   Given a supplemental assignment or an activity assignment, develop a technical report (using a computer) in one of the areas described in items 1-10 above.

a.        use the library facilities, Internet and other sources to collect supplemental information to write a technical report which includes an introduction, main body, and summary.

b.       develop a formal laboratory report including objectives, theory, procedures, equipment list, schematics, calculated and measured data, and conclusion.

14.   Given the specifications for a hardware project, students shall:

a.        work productively as a team, practicing project leadership, interpersonal skills, and conflict resolution.

b.       practice problem solving via the planning and organizing of the project.

c.        obtain materials needed for the project and construct the unit.

d.       test the unit to project specifications, and create necessary documentation.

e.        assess the overall quality of the teamwork, and of the project.

f.         demonstrate leadership

g.       develop and deliver to his/her colleagues a 10 minute oral presentation.

15.   Listen and think critically, apply mathematical procedures and quantitative methods, logically troubleshoot electronic systems and propose corrective measures.

An introduction to the techniques, principles, and terminology of Voice telecommunications will be presented.  Public and private telecommunication networks will be examined.  Telecommunication equipment, switching and transmission technology will be demonstrated.  The frequency spectrum, modulation schemes and multiplexing techniques will be explored.  Lectures, interactive learning and demonstrations will be employed.  Laboratory exercises will be required.

Course Objectives: 

1.        The student will be able to articulate the fundamental concepts of Telecommunications such as bandwidth, capacity and data rates.

2.        The student will be able to describe basic communications concepts including Networks, Telephone Equipment, Multiplexing, Switching, and Transmissions Media.

3.        The student will be able to express concepts in language appropriate to the Telecommunications field.

4.        The student will be able to read and understand subject related literature.

5.        The student will be able to calculate communications parameters such as decibels, frequency, signal bandwidth and channel capacity.

6.        The student will be proficient using basic telecommunications test equipment.

7.        The student will further develop the following course competencies: problem solving, teamwork, project leadership, quality, contextual learning, technology and service delivery, and customer focus.

This course is designed to train students in the organization, architecture, setup, maintenance, hardware and software aspects of local area networks. Topics include: introduction to networks; types and characteristics of different network architectures and network topologies; intra and inter-network devices; network operating systems; peer-to-peer and client/server environments; LAN setup and maintenance, network printing; internal web server. A hands-on approach will be taken, with team projects throughout

Course Objectives:

Instructors shall make every effort to incorporate the following umbrella competencies:

1.        Problem solving.

2.        Teamwork.

3.        Project leadership.

4.        Quality.

5.        Contextual learning.

6.        Technology and service delivery.

7.        Consumer focus

Upon completion students shall be able to:

1.        Describe LAN organization and operation.

2.        Describe the purpose and function of various LAN protocols.

3.        Describe the purpose and function of LAN interconnection technologies.

4.        Use LANs for data communications.

5.        Use network analysis software to view, verify, and troubleshoot network traffic conditions.

6.        Work productively as a team, practicing project leadership, interpersonal skills and conflict resolution in a networked environment.

7.        Practice problem solving via the planning, organization and delivery of projects in a networked environment.

Program Objectives:

1.        Continue development of umbrella competencies.

2.        Integrate umbrella competencies and technical competencies in the work place.

3.        Form foundation for more advanced telecommunications courses.

This course is designed to train students in the organization, architecture, setup, hardware and software aspects of interconnecting local area networks (LANs) and wide area networks (WANs). Topics include: introduction to intra and inter-network devices; network operating systems; client/server environments; LAN / WAN setups, network printing; internal web server. A hands-on approach will  be taken, with team projects throughout.

Course Objectives:

Instructors shall make every effort to incorporate the following course competencies:

1.        Problem solving.

2.        Teamwork.

3.        Project leadership.

4.        Quality.

5.        Contextual learning.

6.        Technology and service delivery.

7.        Consumer focus

Upon completion students shall be able to:

1.        Describe LAN / WAN organization and operation.

2.        Describe the purpose and function of various LAN / WAN protocols.

3.        Describe the purpose and function of LAN / WAN interconnection technologies.

4.        Use LANs / WANs for data communications.

5.        Use network analysis software to view, verify, and troubleshoot network traffic conditions.

6.        Work productively as a team, practicing project leadership, interpersonal skills and conflict resolution in a networked environment.

7.        Practice problem solving via the planning, organization and delivery of projects in a networked environment.

Program Objectives:

1.        Continue development of course  competencies.

2.        Integrate course competencies and technical competencies in the work place.

3.        Form foundation for more advanced telecommunications courses.

A survey of current and emerging technologies in Telecommunications will be

presented. Lectures, interactive learning, demonstrations, and site visits will be

employed. Prerequisite Telecommunications III or permission of the instructor

F/S (S).

Course Objectives: 

1.        The student will be able to explain advanced telecommunication techniques and principles.

2.        The student will be able to explain current and future communication services and their applications.

3.        The student will be able to identify sources of information and reference material for current and emerging technologies.

4.        The student will be able to articulate concepts of advanced networks and services.

5.        The student will be able to apply security concepts including encryption, authentication, key technology and digital certificates.

6.        The student will further develop the following course competencies: problem solving, teamwork, project leadership, quality, contextual learning, technology and service delivery, and customer focus.

Program Objectives:

1.     Continue development of umbrella competencies.

2.     Integrate umbrella competencies and technical competencies in the work place.

3.     Capstone the three previous telecommunications courses.           

This course is designed to help students improve their writing ability through concentration on the writing processes:  prewriting, writing and revision.  Other concerns of the writer, particularly audience diction, and correctness, will be addressed.  Research techniques, library orientation, and oral presentation of student writing are also included.  Research paper required.

Course Objectives:

At the completion of this course, the student shall be able to demonstrate mastery in the program competencies articulated in the Verizon NEXTSTEP curriculum, including interpersonal skills, quality, team building, project leadership, problem solving, and technical and service delivery.

At the completion of this course, the student shall be able to:

1.     Effectively utilize the writing process to research, organize, draft and revise a series of essays and at least one major research project.

2.     Demonstrate standard rules of English usage to communicate clearly, effectively, and correctly.

3.     Organize and deliver informal as well as formal oral presentations.

4.     Prepare clear and persuasive professional and technical documents.

5.     Utilize available library and external resources to reinforce written and oral communication.

College English II/Composition II: descriptions may vary slightly from college to college.  See individual college catalogues.

Course Objectives:

At the completion of this course, the student will be able to:

1.     Utilize critical thinking skills in the analysis and    interpretation of college level texts as well as other external resources.

2.     Utilize primary and secondary research sources to prepare a research project which will demonstrate analytical and critical thinking skills, correct and effective writing, and appropriate current technology.

3.     Expand on the organizational patterns, research techniques, and writing methodologies studied in College English I/Composition I to demonstrate writing competency and to strengthen and refine communication.

4.     Demonstrate an awareness of as well as comprehension of how social, cultural, aesthetic, and intellectual issues raised in the class and through        outside reading are relevant to one’s personal, professional, and academic life.

5.     Understand the impact of social and technological change as it relates to the individual, the environment, the culture, communication, and society.                    

Program Competencies:

To meet general education competencies, students will have regular access to at least one integrated software package that they may use to complete assignments, including the final project.

This course is designed to introduce students to the physical laws and principles inherent in the study mechanics, wave mechanics, light and optics, electricity and magnetism, and time permitting modern physics. There will be an emphasis placed on the  following topics: vibrations and waves, electricity and magnetism, and wave optics. Dimensional analysis and problem solving will be stressed.

Course Objectives:

The instructors shall make every effort to incorporate the following umbrella competencies developed by the Program: Problem Solving, Teamwork, Project Leadership, Quality, Contextual Learning, Technology and Service Delivery, and Customer Focus. In addition, after completing the course, student should have the following Physics Knowledge Competencies:

1.        Equations describing  motion with constant acceleration

2.        Conditions of static equilibrium

3.        Vectors to describe force and motion

4.        Vector products; scalar product and vector product

5.        Newton’s laws of motion

6.        Definition of work

7.        Power

8.        Kinetic & potential energies

9.        Work-energy theorem

10.     Conservation of energy

11.     Newton’s law of gravitation

12.     Simple harmonic motion

13.     Harmonic oscillator

14.     Wave motion

15.     Sound

16.     Lenses & mirrors

17.     Wave optics & lasers

18.     Coulomb’s law

19.     Gauss’ law

20.     Faraday’s law

21.     Ampere’s law

22.     Biot-Savart law

23.     Magnetism

24.     Solid-state physics

In addition and time permitting , an introduction to:

25.     Heat & Thermodynamics

26.     Spectra

27.     Bohr atom

28.     Planck quantization

29.     Photoelectric effect

30.     Composition of nuclei

Mathematics Competencies

1.        Evaluate an equation

2.        Solve equations using algebra

3.        Use the equation of a straight line

4.        Solve quadratic equations

5.        Solve simultaneous equations

6.        Use trigonometry

7.        Use natural logarithms

Laboratory Skills

1.        Follow instructions for laboratory procedures

2.        Make measurements and collect data

3.        Organize and present data as tables and graphs

4.        Interpret graphs and statistical data

5.        Plot data

6.        Relate experimental data to mathematical models

7.        Design experiments

8.        Prepare a lab report

9.        Meet deadlines

10.     Work in teams

This is a general outline of topics, readings and projects for the Social Science Course in the Next Step Program. Key curriculum areas include Change in Work, Business Organization, Global Economy, Labor History, Corporate Response, Collective Bargaining, the Umbrella Competencies and Challenges. This outline does not define sequencing of these issues.  Each professor may determine the order and emphasis based on his or her discipline and unique approach and on the needs of each particular class of students, keeping in mind the overall course objectives as defined.     

Course Objectives:

Instructors shall make every effort to incorporate the following umbrella competencies: Problem solving, teamwork, project leadership, quality, contextual learning, technology and service delivery, and customer focus.

In addition students shall demonstrate the following competencies:

1.        To understand the history and development of the labor movement including current issues and future perspectives

2.        To understand the changing nature of work and technology and its impact on workers, unions, and labor-management relations

3.        To understand the history and evolution of business organization in the context of social, economic and political forces

4.        To understand the theory and function of workplace skills--customer focus, quality, teamwork, leadership and problem solving.