16692 - Computer Science Lab-based Course (G.F)

Learning outcomes

At the end of the course the student: - has the knowledge to understand the fundamental structure of the Internet as a packet-switched network and the main services offered by the World Wide Web such as e-mail, instant messaging, remote connections, the evolution of social network services or Web2, the processes of searching for information on the Web; - will also have basic knowledge on the use of spreadsheets (operations, functions, graphics), and database management (construction of tables, relations, forms, and queries).

Course contents

Basic concepts of computer science

• Meaning and implications of the term digital
• The computer: nature, designation, functions and architecture
• The computer as general executor of algorithms
• From algorithm to computer programme: principles ofprogramming and their educational and recreational applications (*)

The Internet and the World Wide Web

• Structure and functioning of the Internet
• The World Wide Web service
• Architecture and standards for the Web
• Evolution of the Web
• Searching for information on the Web
• How a search engine works
• Social network services
• Copyright on the Internet 

Using spreadsheets to manage simple databases

• Tables and records with MS-Excel
•  Inserting and editing records and tables
• Managing data in a spreadsheet
• Searching and selecting data from a list (filters)
• Formulas and functions
• Formatting data
• Graphs
• Printing sheets
• Protecting data

Using database management systems

•  Structure of a database
• Creating a table schema with MS-Access
• The relational model
• Querying and managing a database

(*) In particular, in this workshop, once the basic principles of computer science and programming have been provided, the topic of coding in kindergarten is introduced. We will propose some unplugged coding activities (without the use of electronic devices) suitable to initiate the child to the maturation of computational thinking with games that rely on the metaphor of programming.

Readings/Bibliography

Readings/Bibliography

-Mauro Mezzini, Informatica di base, seconda edizione, Maggioli Editore, 2020.

-Alessandro Bogliolo, A scuola con CodyRoby. Il coding come gioco di ruolo, Giunti Scuola, Milano, 2020.

 Recommended reading:

-Alessandro Bogliolo, Coding in Your Classroom, Now!, Giunti Scuola, Milano, 2018

Teaching methods

As concerns the teaching methods of this course unit, all students must attend Module 1, 2 on Health and Safety online

Assessment methods

Individual and / or group work.

Teaching tools

Learning control questionnaires.

Online collaborative teaching tools to integrate traditional classroom teaching activities: Moodle platform, forum, chat, web conf .. wiki.

Use of content (text and multimedia teaching materials, videos, exercises) available on the delivery platform Online courses for registered students.

Educational Resources on the Net: Sitography.

Office hours

See the website of Stefano Russo