University of California, Irvine

Computer Hardware and Software

Tim Carrington

Instructor: Tim Carrington

13,589 already enrolled

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Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
4.5

(146 reviews)

Beginner level

Recommended experience

Flexible schedule
Approx. 11 hours
Learn at your own pace
94%
Most learners liked this course
Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
4.5

(146 reviews)

Beginner level

Recommended experience

Flexible schedule
Approx. 11 hours
Learn at your own pace
94%
Most learners liked this course

What you'll learn

  • Identify the basic hardware components of a computer. Explain how software creates a functional and productive computer. Build a basic computer.

Details to know

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Assessments

3 assignments

Taught in English

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This course is part of the Introduction to Computer Information Systems Specialization
When you enroll in this course, you'll also be enrolled in this Specialization.
  • Learn new concepts from industry experts
  • Gain a foundational understanding of a subject or tool
  • Develop job-relevant skills with hands-on projects
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There are 3 modules in this course

Computing and information systems are some of the fastest growing fields in the world. The skills needed to build computers, configure security networks, and engineer software are highly valued throughout the global workforce. The possibilities are endless, exciting, and this module will provide you with the basic foundation needed to take the first steps into the world of computer information systems. You will start with readings and exercises that will teach you how computers are made and how to use hardware to create the most energy efficient and productive computers. The module concludes with a learning activity in which students will practice assembling a computer.

What's included

2 videos3 readings1 assignment2 discussion prompts

In your last module, you learned all about hardware. You studied how motherboards, hard disks, power supplies and other components work together to create a basic computer. However, a computer is a lot more than a series of wires and circuits. In order for a computer to function, it needs to communicate with its user and be told what to do. In this module, you will learn all about operating systems and other types of software that make it possible for a user to communicate with a computer and give it commands that make it a fully functional machine. This module will prepare you for your final module, in which students are asked to use software to design a network security system.

What's included

3 videos3 readings1 assignment1 discussion prompt

In your last module, you learned about software, how to communicate with a computer, and give it demands that transform it into a fully functional productivity tool. In this course's final module, you will learn how computers can communicate with each other on the internet. You will learn about basic network addressing, the domain system, and fundamental internet protocols. You will also learn some basic history about the creation of the internet. Upon completion of this module, you will have the foundational knowledge of computing and information systems needed to proceed to the next course in this specialization.

What's included

1 video3 readings1 assignment1 peer review1 discussion prompt

Instructor

Instructor ratings
4.5 (57 ratings)
Tim Carrington
University of California, Irvine
6 Courses26,969 learners

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Recommended if you're interested in Software Development

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4.5

146 reviews

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SS
5

Reviewed on Jun 9, 2022

AS
4

Reviewed on Oct 24, 2022

AA
5

Reviewed on Dec 25, 2021

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