2007-08 Undergraduate Catalog
Indiana, Pennsylvania 15705
 

Department of Technology Support and Training

Eberly College of Business and Information Technology

Credit designation below each title is expressed in (c) class hours per week, (l) lab or (d) discussion section hours per week, and (cr) credits per semester.

Note: Except for Accounting, Business Education, and nonbusiness majors who have met the required prerequisites, students scheduling 300 and 400 courses are expected to have achieved junior standing as described in the Eberly College of Business and Information Technology Academic Policies.

BTST 105 Introduction to Business

3c-0l-3cr

An introduction to business, emphasizing critical issues impacting the business world, such as globalization, technology, ethics, and diversity. Provides an overview of the various functional areas of business and provides an understanding of the need for integration of those functional areas for success in business. Stresses experiential learning, develops team building skills, strengthens oral and written communication skills, and provides for personal interaction with university faculty. Provides an introduction to career opportunities and curriculum choices in business. (Offered as BTST 101 prior to 2004-05)

BTST 221 Business Technical Writing

3c-0l-3cr

Prerequisite: ENGL 101

The application of business and technical writing styles, letters, memos, reports, procedures, and manuals are some areas of concern. Emphasizes clear, concise writing style. (May not be used as a substitute for BTST 321)

BTST 231 Speech Communication for Professionals

1c-0l-1cr

A study of theory and principles of effective oral presentations in a professional setting. Content includes audience analysis, management of speech anxiety, topic selection and refinement, proper selection and use of visual aids, and speech forms. Builds professional presentation skills as course assignments to develop, critique, and deliver professional presentations are fulfilled.

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BTST 273 Hardware Support Solutions

3c-0l-3cr

Prerequisite: BTED/COSC/IFMG 101

Emphasizes systems hardware, especially the microcomputer. Concepts and design principles common to all microprocessors are studied. Auxiliary hardware such as printers, modems, scanners, and laser technology will be included. Basic network technology concepts and peer-to-peer network configuration, maintenance, and troubleshooting are also included. (Offered as TSTS 313 Office Systems Technologies prior to 2003-04)

BTST 281 Special Topics

var-1-3cr

Prerequisite: As appropriate to course content

Offered on an experimental or temporary basis to explore topics not included in the established curriculum. A given topic may be offered under any special topic identity no more than three times. Special topics numbered 281 are offered primarily for lower-level undergraduate students.

BTST 310 Telecommunications

3c-0l-3cr

Prerequisite: BTED/COSC/IFMG 101

Provides an introduction to telecommunications in the business environment. Includes an overview of electronic communication systems including a conceptual framework as well as hands-on experience. Concepts of telecommunications technology, applications, and management as they apply to business and industry are addressed.

BTST 311 Training Methods in Business and Information Technology Support

3c-0l-3cr

Prerequisites: PSYC 101, junior standing

Includes the application of theories of adult learning to planning, delivering, and evaluating training for education and information technology. Major emphasis is on the planning of instruction. Topics include needs assessment, live and mediated instruction, classroom management, evaluation and follow-up methods, and evaluation of training strategies.

BTST 321 Business and Interpersonal Communications

3c-0l-3cr

Prerequisites: ENGL 101, 202

A study of communication theory and principles as applied to business situations and practices; development of communication skills in areas of communication such as speaking, writing, listening, and nonverbal communicating. Emphasizes building effective interpersonal relations in a business environment.

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BTST 342 Intercultural Business Communication

3c-0l-3cr

Prerequisite: Junior standing

An in-depth study and theoretical understanding of intercultural business communication, including international, national, ethnic, racial, and socioeconomic cultures. Explores practices, trends, and difficulties of people primarily identified with one culture’s attempting to interact with people of another culture through speaking, listening, writing, and nonverbal means. Problems of intercultural communication situations for business are pinpointed, elements of the problems clarified, and guidelines projected for problem mitigation.

BTST 383 Microcomputer Software Solutions

3c-0l-3cr

Prerequisite: BTST 273 or instructor permission

An in-depth study of all the salient functions and features of selecting, installing, configuring, and maintaining the microcomputer operating systems and resolving conflicts. Also develops skills for installing, customizing, and optimizing a variety of application, multimedia, Internet, and utility software programs, as well as configuring, managing, and troubleshooting PC security issues. (Offered as BTST 283 prior to 2003-04)

BTST 401 Web Design 

3c-0l-3cr

Focuses on web design research and experimentation with basic to leading-edge design techniques enabling the creation of user-focused websites. Emphasizes web design techniques resulting in fast-loading and well-placed graphics, cohesive color and typography across platforms and browsers, clear navigational interface, and appropriate use of sound, animation, and video. A variety of software production programs are introduced and used.

BTST 402 Website Development and Administration

3c-0l-3cr

Guides through a hands-on, step-by-step process of creating a well-designed website for an enterprise. Teaches how to install and configure a WWW server, publish web pages using the latest tools, and set up mechanisms to manage and update a website and content.

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BTST 411 Technology Support Development

3c-0l-3cr

Prerequisites: BTST 273, 383, and COSC/IFMG 352

Corequisite: BTST 413

Includes dimensions of study relative to a technical support center–facilities management, workplace ergonomics, end-user needs assessment, and end-user support. Incorporates practical applications for building customer care, technical, and reporting skills through the development of various projects, including needs analysis, computer documentation, ergonomic facility design, and project management.

BTST 413 Enterprise Technology Support

3c-0l-3cr

Prerequisites: BTST 273, 383, COSC/IFMG 352 or instructor permission
Corequisite: BTST 411

Provides a comprehensive and practical knowledge of enterprisewide technology. Topics include knowledge management, remote user support, teleconferencing, and network management and enhancement. Hands-on experience working with software, customizing user environments, managing technology security, and enhancing and troubleshooting the computing environment.

BTST 480 Seminar in Business Technology Support

3c-0l-3cr

Prerequisite: Graduating seniors only or instructor permission

Emphasizes solving of office management problems. Provides an opportunity to integrate and apply the skills and knowledge previously gained in the Business Technology Support major.

BTST 481 Special Topics

var-l-3cr

Prerequisite: As appropriate to course content

Offered on an experimental or temporary basis to explore topics not included in the established curriculum. A given topic may be offered under any special topic identity no more than three times. Special topics numbered 481 are offered primarily for upper-level undergraduate students.

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BTST 482 Independent Study

var-1-3cr

Prerequisite: Prior approval through advisor, faculty member, department chairperson, dean, and Provost’s Office

Students with interest in independent study of a topic not offered in the curriculum may propose a plan of study in conjunction with a faculty member. Approval is based on academic appropriateness and availability of resources.

BTST 493 Internship

var-3-6cr

Prerequisites: Approval of internship coordinator, chairperson, and dean and 2.75 cumulative GPA and 3.0 GPA in Business

A supervised office experience program with an approved agency (business, industry, and government).

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