Course Description and Competencies

What to Expect

This course is divided into four modules and 11 units. Each module focuses on one competency. The materials incorporate readings, videos, and knowledge check quizzes. Engaging with these activities can reinforce new learning. It also complements the knowledge you bring to this area of study.

Course Competencies

This course covers the following competencies:

  • The learner describes operating systems, including their roles, basic functions, and importance to software applications.
  • The learner recognizes the connections between foundational principles of computer science and basic elements of a computer program.
  • The learner evaluates the efficiency and effectiveness of algorithms to solve a given problem.
  • The learner manipulates data to gain critical insights.

Assessment

The assessment provides an opportunity to demonstrate your mastery of the competencies in this course. You may attempt the assessment two times before additional support is necessary. If you require further attempts, please contact your Student Experience Team.

1 Final Exam
3 Competency Units

Course Outline

ModuleUpon completion of this module, you will be able to:
OS Fundamentals
  • Describe fundamental principles and core concepts of operating systems.
  • Demonstrate various techniques and tools to manage operating systems.
  • Identify common privacy and security concepts that could be implemented in operating systems.
Basic Program Design
  • Identify variables and data types within a programming language.
  • Explain how toβ€―store, access, and manipulate data in lists.
  • Use functions, methods, and packages to leverage programming language.
Algorithm Efficiency
  • Describe the relationships between algorithm complexity and data structures.
  • Choose an appropriate algorithm searching method based on a given scenario.
  • Choose an appropriate sorting algorithm method based on a given scenario.
Data Profiling
  • Apply fundamental concepts and subsetting techniques to a dataset.
  • Utilize a programming language to manipulate arrays and discover insights.

Technology Requirements

We want you to have the tools to succeed! Since this course includes at least one proctored test, please be sure to have a working microphone, speakers, and an external webcam. Unfortunately, an internal webcam (built into many laptops) is not acceptable. (Note: The external webcam is required only for exams that have proctors. You do not need one for practice tests and other non-proctored assessments.) If you haven't already, be sure to download the Meazure Learning Guardian browser, which you will need for the proctoring system.

You will need Adobe Acrobat Reader DC. If you haven't already, download this free software. You may encounter an interactive form that contains fields that you can select or fill in. Review how to fill in a PDF form.

For other details about the technology you'll need, review the Computer System and Technology Requirements. If you have questions about your setup, contact support@academy.wgu.edu.

Key Contacts

Course Connect
Check out this online community to take advantage of course resources, including videos and tips from your educators. You can ask and answer questions, provide feedback on your progress, and interact with fellow students. You will find this platform in the Student Resources section of the course. Log on and do some exploring!

Technical Support
If you encounter technical issues, be sure to contact the Help Desk. Just submit a Support Request for assistance.

Program Support
Do you have questions about your account? Student Support has answers. They can help with billing, switching courses, and other requests. You can contact them at (888) 320-0540 or support@academy.wgu.edu.

Accommodations

WGU provides compliant and accessible learning experiences. If you require accommodation, please contact us at the start of the course. You can email disability@academy.wgu.edu.

We are committed to ensuring that all students with disabilities have equal access to WGU's services and materials. We strive to use best practices for accessibility. Our goal is to conform to existing U.S. laws, including the Americans with Disabilities Act and Section 504 and Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act.

Our learning management system (LMS) platform is Open edX. Open edX’s commitment to accessible content is published in their Website Accessibility Policy.