ITSM 1203 IT Fundamentals Syllabus 810 Fall 2026

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Credit Hours 3.00 Lecture Hours 2 Clinical/Lab Hours 2
Type of Credit
Occupational/Technical
CIP Code
11.1006
Course Meeting Time

Course prefix and number: ITSM 1203

Course Title: IT Fundamentals

Room Location: D122, Workforce Development Center

In-Person Class Days/Times: M/W 6-7:30pm (8 wks)

Credit hours: 3 Credits

Lecture hours: 2

Clinical/Lab hours: 2

Semester: Fall 2026

Catalog description:

This comprehensive course is designed to provide students with a foundational understanding of essential information technology concepts and skills, focusing on the CompTIA® Tech+ certification objectives. The course serves as an introduction to the world of IT, catering to students with little to no prior IT experience. Through a combination of theoretical knowledge and hands-on practical exercises, students will gain a strong grasp of fundamental IT principles, preparing them for further studies or entry-level positions in the IT industry. From networking and cybersecurity essentials to hardware and software basics, IT Fundamentals demonstrates your readiness for the digital workplace. This course prepares students for the CompTIA Tech+ exam.

Course Description

This comprehensive course is designed to provide students with a foundational understanding of essential information technology concepts and skills, focusing on the CompTIA® IT Fundamentals (ITF+) certification objectives. The course serves as an introduction to the world of IT, catering to students with little to no prior IT experience. Through a combination of theoretical knowledge and hands-on practical exercises, students will gain a strong grasp of fundamental IT principles, preparing them for further studies or entry-level positions in the IT industry. From networking and cybersecurity essentials to hardware and software basics, IT Fundamentals demonstrates your readiness for the digital workplace. This course prepares students for the CompTIA ITF+ (FCU-U61) exam.

Explanation of Course Alignment

Course Information

Course Outcomes

At the end of this course, students will be able to:

  1. Identify and understand the purpose of computer components.
  2. Explain the use of different connector types.
  3. Explain Operating Systems and their functions and features.
  4. Define and identify basic security threats.
  5. Implement best IT and security practices.
  6. Perform proper steps to set up a basic workstation.
  7. Describe the importance and impact of various environmental and safety concepts.
  8. Understand and utilize network essentials.
  9. Communicate effectively when discussing IT basics.
  10. Explain software and hardware management practices.

Topical Outline

  1. Common Computing Devices
    1. Information Technology
    2. Personal Computers
    3. Mobile and IoT Devices
       
  2. Using a Workstation
    1. Setting up a PC system
    2. Ergonomic concepts
    3. Navigating an OS
    4. Using input devices
    5. Icons and Windows
       
  3. Using an OS
    1. Functions of an Operating System
    2. Types of Operating Systems
    3. Virtualization
    4. Microsoft Windows
    5. Apple macOS and iOS
    6. Linux, Chrome and Android
    7. File Explorer
    8. Windows Settings and Control Panel
    9. Using a Web Browser
       
  4. Managing an OS
    1. Management Interfaces
    2. Process and Service Management
    3. Memory and Disk Management
    4. Command Line Interfaces
    5. Access Control and Protection

       
  5. Troubleshooting and Support
    1. Support and Troubleshooting
    2. Identifying the Problem
    3. Understanding the Problem
    4. Resolving and Documenting the Problem
    5. Troubeshooting PC issues
    6. Getting Support
    7. Using a Search Engine
       
  6. Using Data Types and Units
    1. Notational Systems
    2. Units of Measure
    3. Data Types
    4. Data Representation
    5. The Value of Data
    6. Intellectual Property
    7. Data-Driven Business Decisions
       
  7. Using Apps
    1. Installing Applications
    2. Application Management
    3. Managing Software Licensing
    4. Productivity Software
    5. Collaboration Software
    6. Business Software
       
  8. Programming and App Development
    1. Programming Logic
    2. Programming Languages
    3. Programming Concepts
    4. Object-Oriented Programming
    5. Scripting Languages
    6. Application Platforms and Delivery
       
  9. Using Databases
    1. Database Concepts
    2. Database Structures
    3. Relational Methods
    4. Database Access Methods
    5. Application Architecture Models
       
  10. System Components
    1. Selecting a Computer
    2. Motherboard Components
    3. Processors
    4. Features of Processors
    5. Expansion Bus
    6. System Cooling
    7. BIOS and UEFI System Firmware
       
  11. Using Device Interfaces
    1. Computer Connector Types
    2. USB and Firewire
    3. Graphic Devices
    4. Graphic Device Interfaces
    5. Input Devices
    6. Configuring Peripherals
    7. Bluetooth and NFC
    8. Networking Interfaces
       
  12. Using Peripheral Devices
    1. Installing and Uninstalling Devices
    2. Display Devices
    3. Display Settings
    4. Multimedia Ports and Devices
    5. Printer Types
    6. Installing and Configuring a Printer
    7. Scanners and Cameras
       
  13. Using Storage Devices
    1. System Memory
    2. Mass Storage Devices
    3. Optical Discs and Drives

       
  14. Using File Systems
    1. Managing the File System
    2. Folders and Directories
    3. File Explorer
    4. Files
    5. File Attributes and Permissions
    6. Searching for Folder and Files
    7. File Types and Extensions
       
  15. Networking Concepts
    1. Network Components
    2. TCP/IP
    3. Internet Protocol
    4. Address Resolution Protocol
    5. DNS and URLs
    6. Internet Application Services
       
  16. Connecting to a Network
    1. Internet Service Types
    2. Wireless Internet Services
    3. Setting up a Wireless Network
    4. Configuring a Wireless Client
    5. Connecting to an Enterprise Network
       
  17. Secure Web Browsing
    1. Safe Browsing Practices
    2. Configuring Browser Security
    3. Managing Cookies and PII
    4. Digital Certificates and Anti-Phishing
    5. Enabling a Firewall

       
  18. Using Shared Storage
    1. Local Sharing and Storage
    2. Windows File Sharing
    3. Hosted Sharing and Storage
    4. Backups
    5. Windows Backup
       
  19. Using Mobile Devices
    1. Using a Mobile Device
    2. Mobile Applications and App Stores
    3. Network Connectivity
    4. Email Configuration
    5. Synchronization and Data Transfer
       
  20. Security Concerns
    1. Computer Security Basics
    2. Social Engineering
    3. Business Continuity
    4. Disaster Recovery
       
  21. Using Best Practices
    1. Securing Devices
    2. Malware
    3. Preventing Malware Infections
    4. Spam
    5. Software Sources and Path Management
       
  22. Using Access Controls
    1. Access Controls
    2. User Account Types
    3. Authentication Factors
    4. Uses of Encryption
    5. Password Cracking and Management
       
  23. Behavioral Security Concepts
    1. Policies and Procedures
    2. Handling Confidential Information
    3. Acceptable Use Policies
    4. Expectations of Privacy

Faculty Contact Information

Faculty Name
Courtney Stewart
Faculty Email
cstewart@kcc.edu
Faculty Information

Faculty Contact Information

Courtney Stewart

Adjunct Professor

815-295-6605

cstewart@kcc.edu

 

Paul Carlson

Dean - Business, Technology & Human Services

815-802-8858

pcarlson@kcc.edu

Division Office

W102

815-802-8850

Course Information

Course Outcomes

At the end of this course, students will be able to:

  1. Identify and understand the purpose of computer components.
  2. Explain the use of different connector types.
  3. Explain Operating Systems and their functions and features.
  4. Define and identify basic security threats.
  5. Implement best IT and security practices.
  6. Perform proper steps to set up a basic workstation.
  7. Describe the importance and impact of various environmental and safety concepts.
  8. Understand and utilize network essentials.
  9. Communicate effectively when discussing IT basics.
  10. Explain software and hardware management practices.
Topical Outline
  1. Common Computing Devices
    1. Information Technology
    2. Personal Computers
    3. Mobile and IoT Devices
  2. Using a Workstation
    1. Setting up a PC system
    2. Ergonomic concepts
    3. Navigating an OS
    4. Using input devices
    5. Icons and Windows
  3. Using an OS
    1. Functions of an Operating System
    2. Types of Operating Systems
    3. Virtualization
    4. Microsoft Windows
    5. Apple macOS and iOS
    6. Linux, Chrome and Android
    7. File Explorer
    8. Windows Settings and Control Panel
    9. Using a Web Browser
  4. Managing an OS
    1. Management Interfaces
    2. Process and Service Management
    3. Memory and Disk Management
    4. Command Line Interfaces
    5. Access Control and Protection
  5. Troubleshooting and Support
    1. Support and Troubleshooting
    2. Identifying the Problem
    3. Understanding the Problem
    4. Resolving and Documenting the Problem
    5. Troubeshooting PC issues
    6. Getting Support
    7. Using a Search Engine
  6. Using Data Types and Units
    1. Notational Systems
    2. Units of Measure
    3. Data Types
    4. Data Representation
    5. The Value of Data
    6. Intellectual Property
    7. Data-Driven Business Decisions
  7. Using Apps
    1. Installing Applications
    2. Application Management
    3. Managing Software Licensing
    4. Productivity Software
    5. Collaboration Software
    6. Business Software
  8. Programming and App Development
    1. Programming Logic
    2. Programming Languages
    3. Programming Concepts
    4. Object-Oriented Programming
    5. Scripting Languages
    6. Application Platforms and Delivery
  9. Using Databases
    1. Database Concepts
    2. Database Structures
    3. Relational Methods
    4. Database Access Methods
    5. Application Architecture Models
  10. System Components
    1. Selecting a Computer
    2. Motherboard Components
    3. Processors
    4. Features of Processors
    5. Expansion Bus
    6. System Cooling
    7. BIOS and UEFI System Firmware
  11. Using Device Interfaces
    1. Computer Connector Types
    2. USB and Firewire
    3. Graphic Devices
    4. Graphic Device Interfaces
    5. Input Devices
    6. Configuring Peripherals
    7. Bluetooth and NFC
    8. Networking Interfaces
  12. Using Peripheral Devices
    1. Installing and Uninstalling Devices
    2. Display Devices
    3. Display Settings
    4. d. Multimedia Ports and Devices
    5. Printer Types
    6. Installing and Configuring a Printer
    7. Scanners and Cameras
  13. Using Storage Devices
    1. System Memory
    2. Mass Storage Devices
    3. Optical Discs and Drives
  14. Using File Systems
    1. Managing the File System
    2. Folders and Directories
    3. File Explorer
    4. Files
    5. File Attributes and Permissions
    6. Searching for Folder and Files
    7. File Types and Extensions
  15. Networking Concepts
    1. Network Components
    2. TCP/IP
    3. Internet Protocol
    4. Address Resolution Protocol
    5. DNS and URLs
    6. Internet Application Services
  16. Connecting to a Network
    1. Internet Service Types
    2. Wireless Internet Services
    3. Setting up a Wireless Network
    4. Configuring a Wireless Client
    5. Connecting to an Enterprise Network
  17. Secure Web Browsing
    1. Safe Browsing Practices
    2. Configuring Browser Security
    3. Managing Cookies and PII
    4. Digital Certificates and Anti-Phishing
    5. Enabling a Firewall
  18. Using Shared Storage
    1. Local Sharing and Storage
    2. Windows File Sharing
    3. Hosted Sharing and Storage
    4. Backups
    5. Windows Backup
  19. Using Mobile Devices
    1. Using a Mobile Device
    2. Mobile Applications and App Stores
    3. Network Connectivity
    4. Email Configuratione.
    5. Synchronization and Data Transfer
  20. Security Concerns
    1. Computer Security Basics
    2. Social Engineering
    3. Business Continuity
    4. Disaster Recovery
  21. Using Best Practices
    1. Securing Devices
    2. Malware
    3. Preventing Malware Infections
    4. Spam
    5. Software Sources and Path Management
  22. Using Access Controls
    1. Access Controls
    2. User Account Types
    3. Authentication Factors
    4. Uses of Encryption
    5. Password Cracking and Management
  23. Behavioral Security Concepts
    1. Policies and Procedures
    2. Handling Confidential Information
    3. Acceptable Use Policies
    4. Expectations of Privacy
Textbook/s and Course Materials

Additional Textbook/s and Course Materials

  • CompTIA's CertMaster Learn & Labs online environment will be utilized throughout this course
  • The online e-text provides you with the electronic only access to the same resources.
  • You can access these resources on a personal desktop, laptop, smart phone, tablet, etc.
  • If needed, KCC may be able to lend students Windows laptops for particular tasks for a duration. You may call your program advisor, ITS (815) 802-8900 or Bookstore 815-802-8590 for more information.
Methods of Evaluation

Additional Methods of Evaluation

Student evaluation is based on points accrued via Virtual Labs (in CompTIA), Assignments, Quizzes, and Exams. Point values may change based on added or removed assignments.

  • Assignments – 30%
  • Labs – 40%
  • Quizzes – 10%
  • Exams – 20%

 

The corresponding grading scale will be:

  • 90-100% = A
  • 80-89% = B
  • 70-79% = C
  • 60-69% = D
  • 59% or lower = F
Academic Division

Business, Technology & Human Services

Dean, Paul Carlson; 815-802-8858; V105; pcarlson@kcc.edu; Division Office – W102; 815-802-8650

Course Policies

Course Policies

  • Attendance Policy
    • Attendance is MANDATORY
    • If a class or lab session must be missed, arrangements must be made prior to the absence.
    • If an absence is not planned, a valid excuse (i.e., doctor’s note, etc.) must be provided to the instructor for each missed session at the beginning of the following class session.
    • Make-up work, including assignments, quizzes, exams, etc., is provided at the discretion of the instructor and must be completed within one week of the missed class period.
  • Readings
    • This course requires you to read the assigned reading from the instructor.
    • Lectures will provide only an overview of the reading material.
    • You are expected to come to class prepared for that day’s lecture
  • Quizzes, Assignments L& Exams
    • Quizzes are meant to assess your recall and retention of lecture, reading, and lab materials.
    • Assignments will be administered as a follow up for select topics throughout the semester.
    • Exams are designed to assess retention of lecture and reading materials, while also assessing your ability to compare /contrast and apply concepts.
    • Quizzes may be posted on Canvas.
    • On face-to-face quiz and exam days, students must arrive on time and be ready to take the quiz or exam at the start of class.
    • If a student enters the classroom late on a quiz day, he/she may take the quiz as long as at least one student is still in possession of the quiz. If all students have completed and turned in the quiz, he/she may not take the quiz.
    • Students will not be permitted to enter the classroom and take the exam once the exam has started.
    • Once an exam or quiz has been administered, a student will not be permitted to leave for any reason until he/she turns the exam in.
    • If a student’s cell phone is disruptive during an exam or quiz, the student will receive a zero on that exam.
    • If a student is found using their cell phone in any way during an exam or quiz, it will be considered to be a case of cheating and the student will receive a zero on the exam as well as the possibility of receiving an F for the course grade.
    • Late assignments will not be accepted unless arrangements are made
  • Cell Phone Use
    • Turn off all cell phones and all other items that may beep, buzz, or otherwise interrupt the instructor and other students.
    • If you must have your cell phone on for work or a family emergency, set it to vibrate and leave the classroom if you receive a call.
    • No texting during class.
    • Failure to follow any of the above rules will result in a warning (first offense), 5 point deduction from your class grade (second offense), and removal from the class period (third and beyond offense).
  • Other Classroom Guidelines
    • You will gain the most from this course if you actively participate in classroom and lab discussions and share your experiences and questions.
    • Learn the names of your classmates and help one another whenever possible (but not during quizzes and exams).
    • Take responsibility for the classroom and lab areas by picking up after yourself.
    • Arrive promptly before class begins.
    • No tobacco products may be used on campus.
    • Do not come to class when you are ill and likely to infect others.
    • Minor children are not allowed in the classroom or lab areas for safety reasons.
    • No students will be allowed to work in lab areas outside of class time without instructor permission and appropriate supervision.
  • Student Integrity
    • All students are expected to take quizzes, exams, write papers, and conduct themselves with integrity, common sense, and respect for their fellow students, the instructor, and the academic institution.
    • Students should not jeopardize their own honesty or that of other students.
    • Cheating will not be tolerated.
      • Upon evidence of student cheating, the student will be dropped from the course and receive a grade of F in the course
Expectations for Classroom and Online Behavior

College Policies, Resources and Supports

College Policies

For information related to the Student Code of Conduct Policy, Withdrawal Policy, Email Policy, and Non-Attendance/Non-Participation Policy, please review the college’s Code of Campus Affairs and Regulations webpage, which can be found at catalog.kcc.edu.

Resources

KCC offers various academic and personal resources for all students. Many services are offered virtually, as well as in person. Please visit Student Resources - Kankakee Community College to access student resources services such as:

  • Clubs and organizations
  • Counseling and referral services
  • Office of disability services
  • Student complaint policy
  • Transfer services
  • Tutoring services, etc.

Copyright & Syllabus Disclaimer

The materials on this course are only for the use of students enrolled in this course for purposes associated with this course. Further information regarding KCC's copyright policy is available at https://kcc.libguides.com/copyright.

Course syllabus/calendar is subject to change.

Course Calendar
 DatesContentAssignment/Lab/Quiz/Test
Week 1Aug 17 – 23
  • 1.1 – Use Technology Effectively
  • 1.2 – Explore the Computing Cycle
  • 1.3 – Recognize Computing Devices
  • 2.1 – Understand Your Data
  • 2.2 – Data Privacy
  • 2.2 – Passwords and Encryption
  • 2.3 – Legacy Cables
  • Lesson 1 Quiz
  • Lesson 2 Quiz
  • Virtual Lab – Resetting a Password
Week 2Aug 24 – 30
  • 3.1 – Identify Internet Basics
  • 3.2 – Using a Web Browser
  • 3.3 – Internet Search Providers
  • 4.1 – Basic Security Concepts
  • 4.2 – Identify Common Security Threats
  • 4.3 – Security Tools and Software
  • Lesson 3 Quiz
  • Lesson 4 Quiz
  • Checkpoint Review Test
  • Virtual Lab – Safe Browsing Best Practices
  • Virtual Lab – Clear Browser Cache
  • Virtual Lab – Use the Browser
  • Virtual Lab – Connect a Cable Modem
  • Virtual Lab – Connect to a DSL Network
  • Virtual Lab – Connect Fiber Optic Cables
  • Virtual Lab – Place Outdoor Wireless Antennas
  • Virtual Lab – Authenticating on a Device
  • Virtual Lab – Authorization Basics
  • Virtual Lab – Clear Browser History
  • Virtual Lab – Check for Anti-Malware on a Machine
  • Virtual Lab – Run an OS Patch or Update
Week 3Aug 31 – Sept 6
  • 5.1 – Binary and Other Numbering Systems
  • 5.2 – Basic Networking Concepts
  • 5.3 – How Networks Work
  • 5.4 – Small Wireless Network Specifications
  • 5.5 – Virtualization on the Network
  • 6.1 – Common Applications
  • 6.2 – Productivity Software
  • 6.3 – Safely Managing Software
  • 6.4 – The CompTIA Troubleshooting Methodology
  • Lesson 5 Quiz
  • Lesson 6 Quiz
  • Virtual Lab – Explore Network Identifiers
  • Virtual Lab – Build a Small Office Network
  • Virtual Lab – Explore Network Communications
  • Virtual Lab – Secure a Small Wireless Network
  • Virtual Lab – Explore Virtualization
  • Virtual Lab – Use Microsoft Outlook
  • Virtual Lab – Use File Sharing Software
  • Virtual Lab – Use Microsoft Word
  • Virtual Lab – Use Microsoft Excel
  • Virtual Lab – Use Microsoft PowerPoint
  • Virtual Lab - Practice Installing & Removing Software
Week 4Sept 7 – 13
  • 7.1 – What is an Operating System?
  • 7.2 – What Does an Operating System Do?
  • 7.3 – File Management
  • 7.4 – Data Backup
  • Lesson 7 Quiz
  • Virtual Lab – Explore Operating Systems – Linux
  • Virtual Lab – Explore Operating Systems – iOS
  • Virtual Lab – Explore Operating Systems – Windows
  • Virtual Lab – Configure Windows OS
  • Virtual Lab – Update Drivers
  • Virtual Lab – Manage Applications
  • Virtual Lab – Manage Services
  • Virtual Lab – Manage Files and Folders
  • Virtual Lab – Create a Backup
Week 5Sept 14 – 20
  • 8.1 – Units of Speed and Capacity
  • 8.2 – What’s Inside a Computer?
  • 8.3 – Storage Types
  • 8.4 – What Can I Connect to My Device?
  • 8.5 – Installing Connected Devices
  • Lesson 8 Quiz
  • Checkpoint Review Test
  • Virtual Lab – Explore the Inside of a Computer
  • Virtual Lab – Set Up a Computer
  • Virtual Lab – Install a UPS
  • Virtual Lab – Connect to a Printer
Week 6Sept 21 – 27
  • 9.1 – Database Basics
  • 9.2 – Types of Databases
  • 9.3 – Relational Databases
  • Lesson 9 Quiz
  • Virtual Lab –Explore an Access Database
  • Virtual Lab – Add a Record
  • Virtual Lab – Run a Report in a Database
  • Virtual Lab – Ensure Valid Input
Week 7Sept 28 – Oct 4
  • 10.1 – What is Coding?
  • 10.2 – Planning a Coding Project
  • 10.3 – Variables and Data Types
  • 10.4 – Coding Principles
  • 11.1 – Leading Technologies
  • Lesson 10 Quiz
  • Lesson 11 Quiz
  • Virtual Lab – Code Visualizer Lab: If…Else Statement
  • Virtual Lab – Code Visualizer Lab: For Loop
  • Virtual Lab – Code Visualizer Lab: For Loop with Array
  • Virtual Lab – Code Visualizer Lab: While Loop
  • Virtual Lab – Code Visualizer Lab: Function
Week 8Oct 5 – 9
  • CompTIA Tech+ Core Exam Review
  • CompTIA Tech+ Practice Exams
  • Practice Exam #1 – IT Concepts and Terminology
  • Practice Exam #2 – Infrastructure
  • Practice Exam #3 – Applications and Software
  • Practice Exam #4 – Software Development Concepts
  • Practice Exam #5 – Data and Database Fundamentals
  • Practice Exam #6 – Security
  • CompTIA Tech+ Practice Test

College Policies, Resources and Supports

College Policies

For information related to the Student Code of Conduct Policy, Withdrawal Policy, Email Policy, and Non- Attendance/Non-Participation Policy, please review the college’s Code of Campus Affairs and Regulations webpage, which can be found at catalog.kcc.edu under the Academic Regulations & Conduct Guide. 

Resources

KCC offers various academic and personal resources for all students. Many services are offered virtually, as well as in person. Please visit Student Resources - Kankakee Community College to access student resources services such as:

  • Clubs and organizations
  • Counseling and referral services
  • Office of disability services
  • Student complaint policy
  • Transfer services
  • Tutoring services, etc.
Copyright & Syllabus Disclaimer

The materials on this course are only for the use of students enrolled in this course for purposes associated with this course. Further information regarding KCC's copyright policy is available at https://kcc.libguides.com/copyright. 
|Course syllabus/calendar is subject to change.