This is a very complex issue,  the basic response is to help a student develop a basic “Skill Set"  of technology comprehensive tools  for advancement in the field of “Computer information technology .”  Having over Thirty  years of computer  technology related work experience,   I have an insight into what an employer seeks in a candidate.  I know this because of the applicants I have interviewed.  My goal is to prepare students to compete in today’s evolving technological world.  

Couses I have taught as as follows:

ITSE 1345 - - PL/SQL

      PL/SQL is a computer programming language, a tool. 

The key word here is“language”.  I focus in setting expectations that as with learning any new language, you begin with the basics then expand, like going from the alphabet to construct words that become sentences.   PL/SQL has approximately 17 main basic programming element structures.  The course is built around identifying the elements and understanding how and when to use them.  As with any language, proficiency comes with experience ie., a student needs to walk before they can run.

 ITSE 2309 Database theory

            Let me begin with an example, how would you encapsulate the theory of an automobile.  It would be fair to say the automobile is transportation system composed of many integrated parts/systems working together to complete the process of transporting (engine, transmission, etc).  A database is similar to that of an automobile, many elements are working together to complete an information data delivery system.  Just as in the automotive industry, there are areas of specialization in the field of databases.  It is important to have a working knowledge of the various disciplines that come together working in harmony to comprise what we have come to call a “Database”.  And let us not forget innovations – this area is in a constants state of leaning.  It appears that with each new years chapters are added and deleted from texts to accommodate the change field requirements.

COCS 1300  Personal Computing

            This class combines “Hands on experience ” with basic computer theory, history, and  working concepts.  It is my focus to remove the “mystic” associated with “Personal Computers”  and bring to the attention of the student that the personal computer is just another “tool” to get the job done.  And as with any “tool” or “equipment”, understanding how it work and what it can do is critical to its use.

COSC 1301 Introduction into computers

            This is a very basic “Hands on Experience” computer course.   I focus on exposing the student to the capabilities of the “Personal Computer”.  As students progress in school, they will need to compose papers, reports etc.  Knowledge of blending the power of a Word-processor with spreadsheets and other software is demonstrated and taught.

BCIS 1305   Business Computer Application

            If an individual were to study to be an automobile mechanic he/she would develop a set of tools for his/her automobile repair capability.  As an Office/Business Administrator – what would your tool-box of business”TOOLS” include??  This class combines business theory, with computer hands on experience   It is my focus to bring to the attention of the student that the computer is just another “tool” to get the job done.  And as with any “tool” or “equipment”, understanding how it works and what it can do is critical to its use.

ITSE 2356 Oracle Database Administration 

         This course is a shift in understanding "Computer Database" operations --  the course has little to do with computer programming.  This course is to introduce computer database students  into the "Programming" tools which are available to the Database Administrator.  The course introduces and demonstrates to  the student the programming tools used to monitor database operations  such as  create security protocols for users,  manage database  backups , manage user activity , generate reports on operational effectiveness, and to assure the "Database" supports the operation  of the firm/corporation/establishment

ITSC-2264  Practicum  CS

      As students nears completion of their college career at Austin Communty and are  about to enter the "Workforce", this course is designed to expose the student the regirious process of securiting employment.  The course content is to asist the student with the developement of "Resume", Cover Letter", and a "Thank You Letter.  Another compoment of teh course is to have the student development technqics to have a successful "Internview",  The underlining premise is to  assist the student with the general training experiences in the workplace.  The College with the Employer develops and documents an individual plan for the student.