Faculty Syllabus
BCIS-1305 Business Computer Applications
Adrian Edmundson
Credit Fall 2026
Section(s)
BCIS-1305-008 (37122)
LEC TuTh 9:00am - 10:20am DIL DLS DIL
LAB TuTh 10:20am - 10:45am DIL DLS DIL
BCIS-1305-013 (37128)
LEC DIL ONL DIL
LAB DIL ONL DIL
Course Requirements
SIMnet Simulations and Quizzes: These will be based on the technology lessons on a weekly basis.
Connect Readings and Quizzes: These will be based on the technology lessons on a weekly basis.
Concepts Exams: Three multiple choice exams based on the readings from the Baltzan text.
Application Assessments: There will be two application assessments which will be based on 1) spreadsheets and 2) databases. These will be in SIMnet in a simulated environment.
|
Assignment |
Points Each |
Total Points |
|
3 – Concepts Exams #1 (Chapter 1 – 3, Appendix A) #2 (Chapter 4 – 6, Appendix C) #3 (Chapter 7 – 9, Appendix B) |
100 |
300 |
|
Connect Chapters: LearnSmart and Quizzes (12) |
20 |
240 |
|
SIMnet Lessons: Simulations and Projects (14) |
20 |
280 |
|
Application Assessments (2) |
Varies |
180 |
|
Total |
|
1000 |
Grade Policy: The final course grade will be assigned based both on concepts and practical application. Exams, homework practical guides, quizzes, and in class participation will be a part of the grade. An overall grade will be assigned on the following grading scale:
|
90% - 100% |
A |
|
80% - 89% |
B |
|
70% - 79% |
C |
|
60% - 69% |
D |
|
0% - 59% |
F |
Course Description / Rationale
Course Description: Computer terminology, hardware, software, operating systems, and information systems relating to the business environment will be covered. The course will also explore business applications of software, including spreadsheets, databases, presentation graphics, word processing, and business-oriented utilization of the Internet.
Pre-requisite: E-Reading and Writing.
Course Rationale: This course is designed to teach students the theoretical approach to information technology and management information systems within a business/computer science environment. Practical business computer applications will emphasize word processing, spreadsheets, databases, presentation software, and electronic commerce of the Internet. Since this course is designed to transfer into a bachelor degree program, check with your degree plan as to what business computer courses the transferring college requires.
Readings
Textbooks:
Business Driven, Information Systems 7e, Author: Paige Baltzan, Publisher: McGraw-Hill, 2020., ISBN-13: 978-1-260-26248-3. McGraw-Hill Connect online Access. Online text included in tuition. Paper version available in bookstore.
SIMnet and Connect online access included with tuition.
Student Learning Outcomes/Learning Objectives
Course Objectives / Learning Outcomes:
- Gain familiarity with the concepts and terminology used in the development, implementation and operation of business application systems.
- Explore various methods that Information Technology can be used to support existing businesses and strategies.
- Investigate emerging technology in shaping new processes, strategies and business models.
- Achieve hands-on experience with productivity/application software to enhance business activities.
- Accomplish projects utilizing business theories, Internet resources and computer technology.
- Work with simple design and development tasks for the main types of business information systems.
- Develop an advanced information technology skill, focusing on office productivity software with emphasis on spreadsheet, database, and presentation software.
- Develop advanced techniques for use in data analysis and decision-making using electronic spreadsheet and databases.
SCANS (Secretary’s Commission on Achieving Necessary Skills):
Refer to http://www.austincc.edu/cit/courses/scans.pdf for a complete definition and explanation of SCANS. The following list summarizes the SCANS competencies addressed in this particular course:
|
RESOURCES 1.1 Manages Time |
INTERPERSONAL 2.1 Participates as a member of a team 2.6 Works with Cultural Diversity |
INFORMATION 3.1 Acquires and Evaluates Information 3.2 Organizes and Maintains Information 3.3 Uses Computers to Process Information |
SYSTEMS 4.1 Understands Systems |
|
TECHNOLOGY 5.2 Applies Technology to Task |
BASIC SKILLS 6.1 Reading 6.5 Listening |
THINKING SKILLS 7.2 Decision Making 7.3 Problem Solving 7.4 Mental Visualization 7.5 Knowing How to Learn 7.6 Reasoning |
PERSONAL SKILLS 8.1 Responsibility 8.2 Self-Esteem 8.3 Sociability 8.4 Self-Management 8.5 Integrity/Honesty |
Course/Class Policies
Attendance/Class Participation
Regular and punctual class and laboratory attendance is expected of all students. If attendance or compliance with other course policies is unsatisfactory, the instructor may withdraw students from the class.
Withdrawal Policy
It is the responsibility of each student to ensure that his or her name is removed from the roll should he or she decides to withdraw from the class. The instructor does, however, reserve the right to drop a student should he or she feel it is necessary. If a student decides to withdraw, he or she should also verify that the withdrawal is submitted before the Final Withdrawal Date. The last date to withdraw for this semester is November 16, 2023. The student is also strongly encouraged to retain their copy of the withdrawal form for their records.
Students who enroll for the third or subsequent time in a course taken since Fall, 2002, may be charged a higher tuition rate, for that course. State law permits students to withdraw from no more than six courses during their entire undergraduate career at Texas public colleges or universities. With certain exceptions, all course withdrawals automatically count towards this limit. Details regarding this policy can be found in the ACC college catalog.
Incompletes
A student may receive a temporary grade of “I” (Incomplete) at the end of the semester only if ALL of the following conditions are satisfied:
- The student is unable to complete the course during the semester due to circumstances beyond their control.
- The student must have earned at least half of the grade points needed for a “C” by the end of the semester.
- The request for the grade must be made in person at the instructor’s office and necessary documents completed.
- To remove an “I”, the student must complete the course by two weeks before the end of the following semester. Failure to do so will result in the grade automatically reverting to an “F”.
Statement on Scholastic Dishonesty
A student attending ACC assumes responsibility for conduct compatible with the mission of the college as an educational institution. Students have the responsibility to submit coursework that is the result of their own thought, research, or self-expression. Students must follow all instructions given by faculty or designated college representatives when taking examinations, placement assessments, tests, quizzes, and evaluations. Actions constituting scholastic dishonesty include, but are not limited to, plagiarism, cheating, fabrication, collusion, and falsifying documents. Penalties for scholastic dishonesty will depend upon the nature of the violation and may range from lowering a grade on one assignment to an “F” in the course and/or expulsion from the college.
See the Student Standards of Conduct and Disciplinary Process.
For this course, the penalty for scholastic dishonesty is a grade of ‘F’ for the course.
Student Rights and Responsibilities
Students at the college have the rights accorded by the U.S. Constitution to freedom of speech, peaceful assembly, petition, and association. These rights carry with them the responsibility to accord the same rights to others in the college community and not to interfere with or disrupt the educational process. Opportunity for students to examine and question pertinent data and assumptions of a given discipline, guided by the evidence of scholarly research, is appropriate in a learning environment. This concept is accompanied by an equally demanding concept of responsibility on the part of the student. As willing partners in learning, students must comply with college rules and procedures.
Statement on Students with Disabilities Each ACC campus offers support services for students with documented disabilities. Students with disabilities who need classroom, academic or other accommodations must request them through the office of Student Accessibility Services (SAS). Students are encouraged to request accommodations when they register for courses or at least three weeks before the start of the semester, otherwise the provision of accommodations may be delayed. Students who have received approval for accommodations from SAS for this course must provide the instructor with the ‘Notice of Approved Accommodations’ from SAS before accommodations will be provided. Arrangements for academic accommodations can only be made after the instructor receives the ‘Notice of Approved Accommodations’ from the student. Students with approved accommodations are encouraged to submit the ‘Notice of Approved Accommodations’ to the instructor at the beginning of the semester because a reasonable amount of time may be needed to prepare and arrange for the accommodations.
Safety Statement Austin Community College is committed to providing a safe and healthy environment for study and work. You are expected to learn and comply with ACC environmental, health and safety procedures and agree to follow ACC safety policies. Because some health and safety circumstances are beyond our control, we ask that you become familiar with the Emergency Procedures poster and Campus Safety Plan map in each classroom.
Please note, you are expected to conduct yourself professionally with respect and courtesy to all. Anyone who thoughtlessly or intentionally jeopardizes the health or safety of another individual will be immediately dismissed from the day’s activity, may be withdrawn from the class, and/or barred from attending future activities.
Freedom of Expression Policy
It is expected that faculty and students will respect the views of others when expressed in classroom discussions.
Tutoring
Free tutoring is provided for this course both on line and face-to-face. For online schedules and details please refer to http:://www.austincc.edu/cit .
Student Files – Privacy
Their instructor for educational and academic reasons may view the information that a student stores in his/her student volume in the Computer Studies Labs.
Concealed Handgun Policy
ACC faculty may notify students in their classes or learning environment about the Texas Campus Carry law taking effect at Austin Community College (and other Texas community colleges) on August 1, 2017. The following is recommended syllabus language, approved by legal counsel and the college. For courses including ACC-sponsored field activities, language is still being drafted.
The Austin Community College District concealed handgun policy ensures compliance with Section 411.2031 of the Texas Government Code (also known as the Campus Carry Law), while maintaining ACC’s commitment to provide a safe environment for its students, faculty, staff, and visitors.
Beginning August 1, 2017, individuals who are licensed to carry (LTC) may do so on campus premises except in locations and at activities prohibited by state or federal law, or the college’s concealed handgun policy.
It is the responsibility of license holders to conceal their handguns at all times. Persons who see a handgun on campus are asked to contact the ACC Police Department by dialing 222 from a campus phone or 512-223-7999.
1. Statement for standard classroom courses (non-exclusion zone)
Refer to the concealed handgun policy online.
2. Statement for classroom courses with physical activity (non-exclusion zone)
IMPORTANT: (Class name) classes may involve considerable physical activity. Bending, stretching, lifting, and other rigorous activities associated with (class name) occur regularly in class. Such activities may expose concealed weapons and place the license holder in violation of state law. Therefore, it is recommended that concealed weapons be stored in a secure place as defined by college policy prior to entering the classroom, studio, or learning space.
Refer to the concealed handgun policy online.
3. Statement for classroom courses in exclusion zones
IMPORTANT: (class name) classes are held in an area designated as an exclusion zone as defined by state law or the college’s concealed handgun policy. Concealed carry is prohibited in exclusion zones. Concealed weapons must be stored in a secure place as defined by college policy prior to entering the classroom, studio, or learning space.
Refer to the concealed handgun policy online.
4. Facts
· All public Texas colleges and universities must abide by the law.
· Private institutions may opt out of implementing the law.
· The concealed campus carry law does not allow open carry on campus.
· A person must have a License to Carry a Handgun (LTC).
· A person must be at least 21 to obtain a LTC, unless he/she is active duty military or a police officer.
· Faculty and staff do not have authority to ban handguns from classrooms.
· Campus carry laws exist in eight states (Texas, Colorado, Utah, Idaho, Mississippi, Kansas, Oregon, and Wisconsin).
· Licensed gun owners have been allowed to carry concealed handguns on public campuses (but not in buildings) for 20 years.
· While Texas is currently in a legislative session, there are no indications lawmakers will change the law.
Use of ACC E-mail
All College e-mail communication to students will be sent solely to the student’s ACCmail account, with the expectation that such communications will be read in a timely fashion. ACC will send important information and will notify you of any college related emergencies using this account. Students should only expect to receive email communication from their instructor using this account. Likewise, students should use their ACCmail account when communicating with instructors and staff. Instructions for activating an ACCmail account.
Student and Instructional Services
ACC strives to provide exemplary support to its students and offers a broad variety of opportunities and services. Information on these services and support systems is available here. Links to many student services and other information can be found at Current Students. ACC Learning Labs provide free tutoring services to all ACC students currently enrolled in the course to be tutored. The tutor schedule for each Learning Lab may be found here. For help setting up your ACCeID, ACC Gmail, or ACC Blackboard, see a Learning Lab Technician at any ACC Learning Lab.
Course Subjects
BCIS 1305 – COURSE SCHEDULE 16 Weeks
The week starts on Mondays at 12:00 AM until Sundays at 11:59 PM
|
Week |
Date |
Lecture SmartBooks (SB) |
Laboratory Activities/Projects Concept Quiz (CQ) |
Due Dates |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1 |
8/26 |
Orientation |
Orientation Exam Excel 1: Simulation & Quiz |
Aug 27, 2026 |
|
2 |
9/2 |
Chapter 1 (SB) |
CQ1: Ch1 Excel 2: Simulation & Quiz |
Sep 3, 2026 |
|
3 |
9/9 |
Chapter 2 (SB) |
CQ2: Ch2 Excel 3: Simulation, Quiz, & Project (1) |
Sep 10, 2026 |
|
4 |
9/16 |
Appendix A (SB) |
CQ3: App A Excel 4: Simulation & Quiz |
Sep 17, 2026 |
|
5 |
9/23 |
Chapter 3 (SB) |
CQ4: Ch3 Excel 5: Simulation & Quiz |
Sep 24, 2026 |
|
6 |
9/30 |
Exam 1: App A Chapters 1 – 3 |
Excel 6: Simulation & Quiz |
Oct 1, 2026 |
|
7 |
10/7 |
Chapter 4 (SB) |
CQ5: Ch4 Excel 7: Simulation, Quiz, & Project (2) |
Oct 8, 2026 |
|
8 |
10/14 |
Chapter 5 (SB) |
CQ6: Ch5 Excel 8: Simulation, Quiz, & Project (3) |
Oct 15, 2026 |
|
9 |
10/21 |
Chapter 6 (SB) |
CQ8: Ch6 Excel 9: Simulation & Quiz |
Oct 22, 2026 |
|
10 |
10/28 |
Exam 2: Chapters 4 – 6 |
Excel 10: Simulation & Quiz |
Oct 29, 2026 |
|
11 |
11/4 |
|
Word 1: Simulation, Quiz, & Project (4) PP 1: Simulation, Quiz, & Project (5) |
Nov 5, 2026 |
|
12 |
11/11 |
Chapter 7 (SB) |
CQ10: Ch7 Access 1: Simulation & Quiz |
Nov 12, 2026 |
|
13 |
11/18 |
Chapter 8 (SB) |
CQ11: Ch8 Access 2: Simulation & Quiz |
Nov 19, 2026 |
|
14 |
11/25 |
Chapter 9 (SB) |
CQ12: Ch9 Access 3: Simulation & Quiz |
Nov 26, 2026 |
|
15 |
12/2 |
Exam 3: Chapters 7 – 9 |
Access 4: Simulation & Quiz |
Dec 3, 2026 |
|
16 |
12/9 |
Application Ass |
Application Exam (Word, Power Point, Excel, Access) |
Dec 10, 2026 |
(*) This syllabus is intended to give the student guidance in what may be covered during the semester and will
be followed as closely as possible. However, the professor reserves the right to modify, supplement, and make
changes as the course needs arise.
Office Hours
Published: 04/17/2026 13:56:08