Module 1: Introduction to Information Technology and Plagiarism Tutorials
Week of Mon, Aug 24 · module closes Sun, Aug 30 · 85 points
By the end of this lesson you can:
- →Explain how the fundamental components of computer systems interact to perform essential functions.
- →Evaluate ethical principles in emerging technologies as they apply to academic and professional life.
Take Meerk's quiz for Module 1
This module's items
- Plagiarism Tutorials Assignment60 pts
- Proper Use of AI Assignment25 pts
Exact due times are in Canvas. Late assignments are not accepted and extensions will not be granted.
Know these cold
- Information technology (IT) is the use of computers, networks, software, and data to store, process, and share information for people and organizations.
- Data are raw facts (a number, a name, a temperature). Information is data organized and processed so it has meaning. Knowledge is information you can act on.
- An information system combines hardware, software, data, procedures (processes), and people to turn data into information — the five components you will name in Module 2.
- IT is everywhere in the course description: hardware and software, the information processing cycle, data analysis and programming, ethics (privacy, security, intellectual property), risk management, and connectivity.
- Plagiarism is presenting someone else's words OR ideas as your own — copying, close paraphrasing without credit, reusing a classmate's work, or buying work. Intent does not matter; the act does.
- Avoid plagiarism: quote exactly with quotation marks and a citation; paraphrase in your own words AND cite; keep track of sources while you research; when in doubt, cite.
- PGCC's Code of Academic Integrity applies to every submission. Consequences range from a zero on the work to failing the course.
- Proper use of AI: AI tools can help you brainstorm, outline, check grammar, or explain a concept — but submitting AI-generated work as your own is academic dishonesty unless the professor allows it and you disclose it.
- Rule of thumb for AI: if you cannot explain the answer without the tool, you do not own the answer. Ask Prof. Roberts before using AI on any graded item.
- Module 1 items: Plagiarism Tutorials Assignment (60) and Proper Use of AI Assignment (25) — 85 points, the biggest single week before Exam 1.
Meerk's quiz — open the Module 1 gate
10 questions, no time limit. 85% on your first attempt in a 24-hour window opens the gate. Retakes inside the window are practice — they help you learn, they don't count. Work alone; the point is to know it, not to have seen it.
Stuck?
Raise your hand. Mr. James gets a message right away and can help you remotely. Nothing else is stored — just your last name, grade, and where you're stuck.
Dinner Table Question
Ask at home: When is it okay to use AI for schoolwork, and when does it become cheating?
En español: ¿Cuándo está bien usar la IA para las tareas y cuándo se convierte en trampa?