Syllabus
UNIX Operating System I

UNIX Operating System I

ITSC-1307

Credit Spring 2021
01/19/2021 - 05/16/2021

Course Information

Section 017
Distance Learning
ONL DIL
Ron Bass

Office Hours

No office hours have been entered for this term

Course Description and Rationale

Course Description:    

ITSC 1307 UNIX (Linux) OPERATING SYSTEM I (3-2-2).  A study of the Linux operating system including multi-user concepts, terminal emulation, and use of system editor, basic Linux commands, and writing script files. Topics include introductory systems management concepts.

Prerequisite:   One semester of programming. (Recommended additional prerequisite:  Introduction to Networking)

Approved Course Text:  

Linux+and LPIC-1Guide to Linux Certification by Jason W.Eckert, 5th Edition,

ISBN-13: 978-1337569798

This is a LInux textbook and all of the examples center around LInux. LInux is a variation of UNIX. The online computing facilities provided by ACC uses Linux.  At the level of use required in this course, Linux and Unix are virtually identical. Students who have access to versions of Linux through work (or home) may use those systems to do the assignments required during the class.

Instructional Methodology: 

This course is offered through ACC's Distance Learning Program and has study/lab activities and time requirements equivalent to 2 50-minute lectures and 2 50-minute labs each week during a sixteen week semester.  This course will be managed using ACC's online instructional support system: Blackboard (Bb). Under the Bb system all course material is available online through an Internet connection and the World Wide Web. It is recommended that each student have access to the internet through a private Internet service provider.  The URL for the Blackboard system is: http://acconline.austincc.edu. All assignments, announcements, discussion boards, study assignments and lab assignments, exam review quizzes and other instructional materials are available through the Bb system. Each student will use his/her ACC eID login name and a password for accessing the Blackboard system.. When logged in, all grading information is protected by system security features; thus assuring student privacy.

Access to a Server (running Linux) will be provided to students in two ways. First, a student may use campus lab facilities to make a connection to the Linux server; or, second, connect to the server from a home or office computer with internet access and a version of a secure shell utility. Secure shell access is accomplished by running an SSH client program using the proper machine.domain name or IP address. An ideal environment for a student taking this class would be to have home or work access to a UNIX/Linux system with an Internet connection.  Students do homework on a Windows or Linux system.  Use a browser to connect to the ACC Blackboard server and submit assignments, questions, and request other instructional resources.

This course is organized as three competency modules: Module 1: History, Basic Commands and Usage, Module 2: the File System, the Shell, and the vim Editor, and Module 3: the Bash Shell and Shell Processes.  The modules are designed to be studied in the sequence presented.  Each module should be completed before proceeding to the next one.  

Course Rationale:

The course is an introduction to the LInux operating system, a variation of UNIX.  LInux is a powerful platform for software development and has many built-in features to support programming.  LInux is also commonly used in networks as file, web, DNS, database, and printer servers.  In addition, it can be used as a desktop machine for home users.  Because of its common use in a wide variety of technical aplications, instruction in Linux is required for many degree programs in Computer Studies at ACC.

Student Learning Outcomes/Learning Objectives

Learning Objectives/Competencies 

Competency Module 1 –  Linux Concepts, Applications, Usage, and File Systems

Objectives:

    1-1.  Demonstrate familiarity with Linux Concepts and History

           -- Textbook Chapter:  1

  1-2.  Demonstrate knowledge of Linux Installation and Usages

          -- Textbook Chapter 2                                                                      

   1-3  Demonstrate knowledge of Linux File Systems

          --  Textbook Chapter 3 (1st half)

Competency Module 2 – Linux File Systems, File Permissions, and using the vi/vim Editor

Objectives:

     2-1.  Demonstrate the ability to use Vim

           Textbook--Chapter 3 (2nd half)

  2-2.  Demonstrate knowledge of Linux File System Management

           Textbook--Chapter 4 (1st half)

  2-3.  Demonstrate knowledge of Linux System Management - File Permissions

            Textbook--Chapter 4 (2nd half)

Competency Module 3 – Bash Shell, Shell Scripting, and Linux Processes

   Objectives:

     3-1.  Demonstrate Knowledge of the Concepts and Commands for the Linux Bash Shell.

              Textbook Chapter 7 (1st half)

     3-2.  Demonstrate Knowledge Shell Scripting for the Linux Bash Shell

              Textbook Chapter 7 (2nd half)

      3-3.  Demonstrate Knowledge of Linux System Processes

               Textbook Chapter 9

The following are ACC and state mandated statements of Skill Standards and Scans Competencies covered by the course.

The following are ACC and state mandated statements of Skill Standards and Scans Competencies covered by the course.

Skill Standards:

The following NWCET skill standards are addressed in this course at level 2 (introductory knowledge and understanding)

Programming and Software Engineering

C6.  Create and test prototypes   D1.  Write code. D2.  Perform unit testing.  E2.  Develop test procedures.  E3.  Perform tests

Technical Support

 D1.  Operate computer system and run system applications

Scans Competencies:  

C1.  Time:  Selects goal-relevant activities, ranks them, allocates time, and prepares and follows schedules.  Level 2.

C19.  Applies Technology to Task:  Understands overall intent and proper procedures for setup and operation of equipment.  Level 2.

F1.  Reading:  Locates, understands, and interprets written information in prose and in documents such as manuals, graphs, and schedules.  Level 2

F3.  Arithmetic:  Performs basic computations; uses basic numerical concepts such as whole numbers, etc.  Level 2.

F4.  Mathematics:  Approaches practical problems by choosing appropriately from a variety of mathematical techniques.  Level 2.

F9   Problem Solving:  Recognizes problems and devises and implements plan of action.  Level 2.

F10.  Seeing Things in the Mind’s Eye:  Organizes and processes symbols, pictures, graphs, objects, and other information.  Level 2.

F11.  Knowing How to Learn:  Uses efficient learning techniques to acquire and apply new knowledge and skills.  Level 2.

F16.  Self-Management:  Assesses self accurately, sets personal goals, monitors progress, and exhibits self-control.  Level 2.

F17.  Integrity/Honesty:  Chooses ethical courses of action.  Level 2.

Readings

This is the required textbook:

Linux+and LPIC-1Guide to Linux Certification by Jason W.Eckert, 5th Edition,

ISBN-13: 978-1337569798

Course Requirements

Assignments:

This course is subdivided into 3  competency (aka; instructional modules).  Each module requires the mastery of a competency and specific objectives.  Each module has a required Exam.  There are a total of 3 competencies to be mastered during the course.  The mastery of each competency will be achieved through textbook study, instructional videos, individual research, study assignments, laboratory assignments and exam review quizzes.  As a result, during the course the following activites must be completed and submitted for grading: 9 Study Assignments, 9 Laboratory Assignments, 9 Exam Review Quizzes. and 3 Exams.   Study assignments and lab assignments are organized as follows:

Competency Module 1 - History, Basic Commands and Usage

   Study Assignments 1-1, 1-2, 1-3

   Lab Assignments 1-1, 1-2, 1-3

   Exam Review Quizzes 1-1, 1-2, and 1-3.

   Exam 1. 

Competency Module 2 - The File System, the Shell, and the vim Editor

   Study Assignments 2-1, 2-2, 2-3

   Lab Assignments 2-1, 2-2, 2-3

   Exam Review Quizzes 2-1, 2-2, and 2-3.

   Exam 2

Competency Module 3 - the Bash Shell and Shell Processes

   Study Assignments 3-1, 3-2, 3-3

   Lab Assignments 3-1, 3-2, 3-3

   Exam Review Quizzes 3-1, 3-2, 3-3

   Exam 3

 The content covered by the Exercise and Problem Sets will be the basis of the exam reviews and exams.  Study Assignments and Lab Assignments will be submitted via Blackboard for grading.  The exam review quiizzes are to be completed on-line using the course's Blackboard system.  Each exam review quiz is presented as an objective question test.  Completed exam review quizzes are graded automatically by Blackboard and recorded under My Grades.  Exam review quizzes are similar in style, content, and difficulty to the exams.  Exam review quiz may be repeated as many times as necessary to achieve a satisfactory level of mastery.  A score of 90% or higher on all exam reviews for a module indicates mastery of the competency with which it is associated.  The course grade is based on the cumulative results Study Assignments, Laboratory Assignments, Exam Review Quizzes and the Exams.   For details see the grade policy below.

Exams are normally given in the ACC Testing Centers but because of the COVID 19 pandemic, exams will be taken at home using Blackboard.  Exams are objective (multiple choice, matching, and or true/false).  There is a specific due date for each exam (see the course schedule below). However, a student may take any exam in advance of it's due date.  All exams are available from the first day of the semester.  All exams are closed book and are to be taken without notes. The Exams will be scored automatically by Blackboard and results provided to the student.  Private discussions about exam results will be provided upon request. A student may elect to take an exam without proper preparation but results are final.  There are no make-up exams or retesting.

Course/Class Policies

Grade Policy:

During the course students will be graded on the following:

9 Exam Reviews and the Orientation Quiz @ 1%  = 10%

9 Study Assignments @ 1/2% = 4.5%

9 Lab Assignments @ 1/2%=4.5% 

Exams 1, 2 & 3 @ 27%  = 81%                                                                                                                                                    

Grading Scale - (as a %)

90-100 = A

80-89.9 = B

70-79.9 = C

60-69.9 = D

59.9 And less = F

Academic Integrity:
A student is expected to complete his or her own projects and tests.  Students are responsible for observing the policy on academic integrity described in the Current ACC Student Handbook, under “Student Discipline Policy, Section C”.
“Acts prohibited by the college for which discipline may be administered include scholastic dishonesty, including but not limited to cheating on an exam or quiz, plagiarizing, and unauthorized collaboration with another in preparing outside work.  Academic work submitted by students shall be the result of their own thought, research or self-expression.  Academic work is defined as, but not limited to tests, quizzes, whether taken electronically or on paper; projects, either individual or group; classroom presentations, and homework”. 
The penalty accessed will be in accordance with the current ACC Student Handbook policy. See http://www.austincc.edu/handbook/policies4.htm  for more information
 
Incomplete Grade:
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 his/her control such as a death in the family or a
catastrophic personal/family member illness.
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”.
Freedom of Expression Policy:
It is expected that faculty and students will respect the views of others when expressed in classroom discussions.
Withdrawal Policy:
It is the student’s responsibility to complete a Withdrawal Form in the Admissions Office if they wish to withdraw from this class.  The instructor may withdraw students from this class if progress toward completing the assignments falls behind schedule.  However, it is not the responsibility of the instructor to withdraw the students from the class..  ALERT:  A new state law affectin students in this course states that: there can be  No more than six course withdrawals throughout your undergraduate education, regardless of how many colleges you attend.  Students who entered college before fall 2007 are not affected.  Ask a counselor for details.
Students with Disabilities Policy:
“Each ACC campus offers support services for students with documented physical or psychological disabilities.  Students with disabilities must request reasonable accommodations through the Office for Students with Disabilities on the campus where they expect to take the majority of their classes.  Students are encouraged to make this request three weeks before the start of the semester.  (Refer to the Current ACC Student Handbook)”
Testing Center Policy (Open Campus Sections Only)
Read the Student Guide to Use of the Testing Center at the following URL: http://www.austincc.edu/testctr/

Course Subjects

Unix Operating System Course Outline:

Competency Module 1

Basic Commands and Utilities

 

 Topic

Textbook Chapter

Study Assignments, Lab Assignments, Exam Review Quizzes and Exams

Introduction to Linux

1

Study Assignment 1-1, Lab Assignment 1-1, and Exam Review Quiz 1-1

Linux Installation and Usage

2

Study Assignment 1-2, Lab Assignment 1-2, and Exam Review Quiz 1-2

 

Exploring Linux File Systems

3 (1st half)

Study Assignment 1-3, Lab Assignment 1-3, and Exam Review Quiz 1-3.  EXAM 1

 

Competency Module 2

File System, Shell, and vim Editor

 

 Topic

Textbook Chapter

Study Assignments, Lab Assignments, Exam Review Quizzes and Exams

The Vim Editor

3 (2nd half)

Study Assignment 2-1, Lab Assignment 2-1, and Exam Review Quiz 2-1

 

Linux File System Management

4 (1st half)

Study Assignment 2-2, Lab Assignment 2-2, and Exam Review Quiz 2-2

 

Linux File System Management

4 (2nd half)

Study Assignment 2-3, Lab Assignment 2-3, and Exam Review Quiz  2-3.  EXAM 2

 

Competency Module 3

Bash Shell and Shell Processes

 
Topic

Textbook Chapter

Study Assignments, Lab Assignments, Exam Review Quizzes and Exams

Bash Shell

7 (1st halfj)

Study Assignment 3-1, Lab Assignment 3-1, and Exam Review Quiz 3-1

 

Bash Shell Programming

7 (2nd half)

Study Assignment 3-2, Lab Assignment 3-2, and Exam Review Quiz 3-2

 

Bash Shell Processes

9

Study Assignment 3-3, Lab Assignment 3-3, and Exam Review Quiz 3-3.  Exam 3

 

 

Schedule

Spring 2021 (16 week semester)

Instructional Module 1 - Linux Concepts, Applications, Usage, and File Systems

Completion Date         Assignments, Quizzes, Exam

01/22                            Course Orientation

01/27                            Study Assignment 1-1, Lab 1-1 and Exam Review Quiz 1-1

02/03                            Verification of Active Participation in Course

02/08                            Study Assignment 1-2, Lab 1-2 and Exam Review Quiz 1-2

02/18                            Study Assignment 1-3, Lab 1-3 and Exam Review Quiz 1-3

02/19                            Exam 1

Instructional Module 2 - Linux File System, File Permissions, and using the vi/vim Editor

Completion Date        Assignments, Quizzes, Exam

03/03                            Study Assignment 2-1, Lab 2-1 and Exam Review Quiz 2-1

03/12                            Study Assignment 2-2, Lab 2-2 and Exam Review Quiz 2-2

04/01                            Study Assignment 2-3, Lab 2-3 and Exam Review Quiz 2-3

04/02                            Exam 2

Instructional Module 3 - Bash Shell, Shell Scripting, and Linux Processes

Completion Date        Assignments, Quizzes, Exam

04/16                            Study Assignment 3-1, Lab 3-1 and Exam Review Quiz 3-1

04/30                            Study Assignment 3-2, Lab 3-2 and Exam Review Quiz 3-2

05/13                            Study Assignment 3-3, Lab 3-3 and Exam Review Quiz 3-3

05/14                            Exam 3