NORTH CENTRAL TEXAS COLLEGE COURSE SYLLABUS   The North Central Texas College (NCTC) Course Syllabus provides the following as required by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB): (1) a brief description of the course including each major course requirement, assignment and examination; (2) the learning objectives for the course; (3) a general description of the subject matter of each lecture or discussion; and (4) any required or recommended readings.  Contact information for the instructor is also provided. The Course Syllabus also provides institutional information to indicate how this course supports NCTC’s purpose and mission. Information specific to a particular section of the course will be included in the Class Syllabus and distributed to enrolled students.

 

Course Title:	Linux Installation and Configuration
Course Prefix & Number:			ITSC1316	Section Number:	0301	Term Code:	Fall 2020
Semester Credit Hours:			3	Lecture Hours:	32	Lab Hours:	32
Course Description (NCTC Catalog):
Introduction to Linux operating system. Includes Linux installation, basic administration, utilities and commands, upgrading, networking, security, and application installation. Emphasizes hands-on setup, administration, and management of Linux.
Course Prerequisite(s):		None
Course Type: o - Academic General Education Course (from Academic Course Guide Manual but not in NCTC Core) o - Academic NCTC Core Curriculum Course x - WECM Course

 

Name of Instructor:	William Hill
Campus/Office Location:	Corinth Campus, Room 202
Telephone Number:	940-498-6463
E-mail Address:	whill@nctc.edu

 

OFFICE HOURS

Monday	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday
As posted in Canvas and by appointment.

 

 

 

 

QUESTIONS, CONCERNS, or COMPLAINTS

Name of Chair/Coordinator:	Susan Svane
Office Location:	Corinth Campus, Room 233
Telephone Number:	940-498-6292
E-mail Address:	ssvane@nctc.edu
Name of Instructional Dean:	Debbie Huffman
Office Location:	Gainesville Campus, Room CTC2106
Telephone Number:	940-668-3357
E-mail Address:	dhuffman@nctc.edu

Required – Textbook: Linux+ Guide to Linux Certification, 5^th Edition, Eckert, Course Technology; ISBN: 978-1-305-10716-8. Flash Drive: you will need a blank 8GB or higher flash drive to create a bootable USB drive. Must be the 5^th edition – the 4^th edition is outdated.

 

Required – Access Code: TestOut Linux Pro version 5.0.2 – ISBN: 978-1-935080-38-1. This may be purchased at the school’s bookstore or directly from TestOut at Testout.com.

 

 

GRADING CRITERIA

# of Graded Course Elements	Graded Course Elements	Percentage or Points Values
14	Homework Assignments	20% of grade
14	Quizzes	20% of grade
14	Lab Assignments	40% of grade
4	Unit Exams (Lowest exam grade is dropped)	20% of grade

 

 

GRADING SCALE

 

	A	>= 90%		D    >= 60%
	B	>= 80%		F    <   60%
	C	>= 70%

 

 

WECM End-of-Course Outcomes: Install, administer, and manage a Linux system; demonstrate proficiency with Linux utilities, commands, and applications; identify and resolve security-based issues; and integrate a Linux system into an existing network.

 

Regular and punctual attendance is expected of all students in all classes for which they have registered.  All absences are considered to be unauthorized unless the student is absent due to illness or emergencies as determined by the instructor.  It is the student responsibility to provide documentation as to the emergency for approval and judgement by the faculty member.  Approved college sponsored activities are the only absences for which a student should not be held liable and only when provided by a college official ahead of the absence.  Valid reasons for absence, however, do not relieve the student of the responsibility for making up required work.  Students will not be allowed to make up an examination missed due to absence unless they have reasons acceptable to the instructor.  A student who is compelled to be absent when a test is given should petition the instructor, in advance if possible, for permission to postpone the exam.  Student will be dropped from a class by the Registrar upon recommendation of the instructor who feels the student has been justifiably absent or tardy a sufficient number of times to preclude meeting the course’s objectives.    Persistent, unjustified absences from classes or laboratories will be considered sufficient cause for College officials to drop a student from the rolls of the College. From Board Policy FC (LOCAL)

Attendance is based on participation in this online class, so you are expected to actively participate in the homework assignments, quizzes, and labs on a weekly basis. I also expect you to check your email every day on M-F. I do not check emails on the weekends from Friday at 5:00 pm to Monday morning at 9:00 am. All course email should be through the Canvas email system only.

 

Last Day to Withdraw: For the Fall 2020 second 8-weeks semester, the last day to withdraw from a course with a “W” is November 21, 2020. If a student decides to officially drop this course, then it is the student’s responsibility to submit the required forms to the registrar. Students who cease attending and who do not complete a drop slip prior November 21, 2020 will earn a grade of “F”.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF SUBJECT MATTER FOR EACH MODULE

Topic	General Description of Subject Matter
Introduction to Linux	Introduces operating systems as well as features, benefits, and uses of the Linux operating system. Includes history and development of Linux and Open Source Software.
Linux Installation and Usage	Outlines procedures necessary for the preparation and installation of Linux. Describes how to interact with a Linux system via a terminal and enter basic commands into the Linux shell, such as how to obtain help and properly shut down the system.
Exploring Linux Filesystems	Outlines the Linux filesystem structure and the types of files that can be found within it. Discusses commands that can be used to view and edit the content of those files.
Linux Filesystem Management	Covers the commands used to locate and manage files and directories on a Linux filesystem. Outlines the different methods used to link files as well as how to interpret and set file and directory permissions.
Linux Filesystem Administration	Discusses how to create, mount, and manage filesystems in Linux. Also discusses the various filesystems available for Linux systems and the device files that are used to refer to the devices that may contain these filesystems.
Linux Server Deployment	Introduces the types of configurations and installation considerations that may prove useful when installing Linux in a server environment. Also discusses common problems that may occur during installation, system rescue, and the ZFS distributed file system commonly used on large-scale Linux server systems.
Working with the BASH Shell	Covers the major features of the BASH shell, including redirection, piping, variables, aliases, and environment files. Also details the syntax of basic shell scripts.
System Initialization, X Windows, and Localization	Covers the different boot loaders that may be used to start the Linux kernel and dual boot the Linux operating system with other operating systems, such as Windows. Discusses how daemons are started during system initialization as well as how to start and stop them afterward. Discusses the structure of Linux graphical user interfaces as well as their configuration and management.
Managing Linux Processes	Covers the different types of processes as well as how to view their attributes, change their priority, and kill them. Discusses how to schedule processes to occur in the future using various utilities.
Common Administrative Tasks	Details three important areas of system administration: printer administration, log file administration, & user administration.
Compression, System Backup, and Software Installation	Describes utilities that are commonly used to compress and backup files on a Linux filesystem. Discusses how to install software from source code as well as how to use the Red Hat Package Manager (RPM).
Network Configuration	Introduces networks, network utilities, and TCP/IP as well as how to configure TCP/IP on a NIC or PPP interface. Details the configuration of name resolution and common networking services and discusses the technologies you can use to administer Linux servers remotely.
Configuring Network Services and Cloud Technologies	Explores the detailed configuration of key infrastructure, Web, file sharing, e-mail, and database network services. More specifically, this chapter examines the structure and configuration of DHCP, DNS, NTP, NIS, FTP, NFS, Samba, Apache Web server, Sendmail, Postfix, and PostgreSQL services.
Security, Troubleshooting, and Performance	Discusses the system maintenance cycle as well as good troubleshooting procedures for solving hardware and software problems. Describes utilities you can use to monitor and pinpoint the cause of performance problems, as well as utilities and procedures you can use to secure the Linux system against unauthorized access.

 

 

 

Tentative Schedule for Fall 2020

 

Fall 2020 Tentative Schedule for 8-week ITSC1316.0381 – Linux Installation and Configuration
Each chapter assigned below has 1 homework, 1 quiz, and 1 lab assignment. So for the weeks that have 2 chapters assigned, you will have 2 homework, 2 quizzes, and 2 lab assignments. This is a lot of work and you must stay on schedule if you hope to successfully complete this course. No late work will be accepted.

 

 

Week 9: 10/19—10/23
All homework and quizzes for Week 9 are due Sunday, 10/25/2020 at 11:55 pm: Introduction and Syllabus;

Setup TestOut. Ch. 1 – Introduction to Linux and Chapter 2 – Linux Installation and Usage

 

Week 10: 10/26—10/30  

All homework, quizzes, and labs for Week 10 are due Sunday, 11/1/2020 at 11:55 pm:
Chapter 3 – Exploring Linux Filesystems and Chapter 4 – Linux Filesystem Management.

 

Week 11: 11/2—11/6 Exam 1 (chapters 1, 2, 3, & 4) available from 8:00 am Monday, 11/2 through 11:55 pm Wednesday, 11/4. 

All homework, quizzes, and labs for Week 11 are due Sunday, 11/8/2020 at 11:55 pm:
Chapter 5 – Linux Filesystem Administration and Chapter 6 – Linux Server Deployment

 

Week 12: 11/9 —11/13

All homework, quizzes, and labs for Week 12 are due Sunday, 11/15/2020 at 11:55 pm:
Chapter 7 – Working with the BASH Shell and Chapter 8 – System Initialization, X Windows, and Localization
 

Week 13: 11/16—11/20 Exam 2 (chapters 5, 6, 7, & 8) available from 8:00 am Monday, 11/16 through 11:55 pm Wednesday, 11/18.

All homework, quizzes, and labs for Week 13 are due Sunday, 11/22/2020 at 11:55pm:
Chapter 9 – Managing Linux Processes (only 1 chapter this week!)

 

Week 14: 11/23—11/27 Thanksgiving Holiday. School closed 11/25 – 11/29. Classes resume 11/30. Mr. Hill will be unavailable during the holiday. November 21^st is the last day to drop with a “W”
All homework, quizzes, and labs for Week 14 are due Sunday, 11/29/2020 at 11:55pm:
Ch 10 – Common Administrative Tasks and Ch 11 – Compression, System Backup, & Software Installation

 

Week 15: 11/30—12/4 Exam 3 (chapters 9, 10, & 11) available from 8:00 am Monday, 11/30 through 11:55 pm Wednesday, 12/2.
All homework, quizzes, and labs for Week 15 are due Sunday, 12/6/2020 at 11:55pm:

Chapter 12 – Network Configuration and Chapter 13 – Configuring Network Services and Cloud Technologies

 

Week 16: 12/7—12/11 Final Exam: (chapters 12, 13, & 14) available from 8:00 am Wednesday, 12/9 through 11:55 pm Thursday, 12/10. Commencement is Friday, 12/11.

All homework, quizzes, and labs for Week 16 are due Wednesday, 12/9/2020 at 6:55pm.

Chapter 14 – Security, Troubleshooting, and Performance

 

Student Rights & Responsibilities

NCTC Board policy FLB (Local) Student Rights and Responsibilities states that each student shall be charged with notice and knowledge of the contents and provisions of the rules and regulations concerning student conduct.  These rules and regulations are published in the Student Handbook published in conjunction with the College Catalog. All students shall obey the law, show respect for properly constituted authority, and observe correct standards of conduct. 

 

Student Handbook
Students are expected to follow all rules and regulations found in the student handbook and published online.

 

Academic Dishonesty

Scholastic dishonesty shall include, but is not limited to cheating, plagiarism, academic falsification, intellectual property dishonesty, academic dishonesty facilitation and collusion.  Faculty members may document and bring charges against a student who is engaged in or is suspected to be engaged in academic dishonesty.  See Student Handbook, “Student Rights & Responsibilities: Student Conduct ([FLB(LOCAL)]”. 

 

Consequences for academic dishonesty may include:

1. A grade of 0 for the work in question.
2. Possible academic suspension.

 

 

Complaint Procedures

If the complaint involves a problem with an instructor, the student shall discuss the matter with the instructor before requesting a conference with the department chair… If the complaint involves a grade received, the student shall collect all tests, papers, daily assignments, class notes and other relevant material prior to the conference with the instructor in question.  (See Student Handbook > Discussion of Complaint)

 

 

ADA Statement

North Central Texas College is committed to providing equal access to educational opportunities to its students with disabilities by providing assistance through “reasonable accommodations”; and a variety of services and resources through the Special Populations Office. The College does not discriminate on the basis of disabilities in admission or access to its programs. Students are responsible for notifying the office of their need for assistance at least two weeks prior to the beginning of a semester. Students with documented disabilities such as mobility, hearing or visual impairments, learning, and/or psychological disorders are eligible for services. The Special Populations Office on the Gainesville Campus is located in the Counseling/Testing Center room ASC 108 (next door to the bookstore). For assistance, call 940/668-4216 ext. 344. 

 

Civil Rights
In compliance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (P.L.88-352), Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 (P.L. 92-318). and the Age Discrimination Act of 1978 (P.L. 92-256), North Central Texas College does not discriminate against or exclude from participation in any of its programs or activities, either in the student body or the staff, any person on the grounds of sex, race, color, religion, age, handicap, national origin, or veteran status.

 

 

 

Web Page

Visit the North Central Texas College web page for information on registration, financial aid, counseling/advising, and cost of tuition and fees. You will also find information on the catalog and semester schedules as well as courses of study. You can keep up with what is happening on campus by checking the calendar of events and the sports news. The web has information on the library as well as links to other areas of interest. Check out our web page at http://www.nctc.edu

 

Additional content for this course may be found in your Canvas account. Please check there for updates and news.

Disability Services (Office for Students with Disabilities)

The Office for Students with Disabilities (OSD) provides support services for students with disabilities, students enrolled in technical areas of study, and students who are classified as special populations (i.e. single parents).

Support services for students with disabilities might include appropriate and reasonable accommodations, or they may be in the form of personal counseling, academic counseling, career counseling, etc.  Furthermore, OSD Counselors work with students to encourage self-advocacy and promote empowerment. The Counselors also provides resource information, disability-related information, and adaptive technology for students who qualify.

If you feel you have needs for services that the institution provides, please reach out to either Wayne Smith (940) 498-6207 or Yvonne Sandman (940) 668-4321.  Alternative students may stop by Room 170 in Corinth or Room 110 in Gainesville. Students on the Bowie, Graham, Flower Mound, and online campuses should call 940-668-4209 to arrange for an intake appointment with OSD.

 

North Central Texas College is on record as being committed to both the spirit and letter of federal equal opportunity legislation, including the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990, ADA Amendments Act of 2009, and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (P.L. 93-112).

http://www.nctc.edu/student-services/disability-services/index.html

 

Support Services

Counseling and Testing staff offer a variety of services to current and prospective students, such as College 101, placement testing, academic advising and course registration, transfer assistance, and College Success seminars (Time Management, Study Skills, Test Anxiety, Choosing a Major, Learning Style Strategies, Career Exploration), and much more.  http://www.nctc.edu/counseling-testing/index.html

 

Student Success offers academic coaching, tutoring, including a Writing Center, a Math Lab, free 24/7 online tutoring through Grade Results and assist new students acclimate to college by providing computer lab services for prospective students.   First generation students can also participate in TRIO, which offers specialized support services.

http://www.nctc.edu/student-services/student-success/tutoring/index.html

 

Financial Aid
Financial Aid offers financial resources for students that qualify, visit the financial aid offices for more information.  http://www.nctc.edu/financial-aid/index.html

EEOC Statement
North Central Texas College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender, religion, age, or disability in the employment or the provision of services.

 

Early Alert and NCTC Cares

The NCTC Early Alert program has been established to assist students who are at risk of failing or withdrawing from a course. Your instructor may refer you to this program if you are missing assignments, failing tests, excessively absent, or have personal circumstances impacting your academic performance. If submitted as an Early Alert you will be notified via your NCTC e-mail address and then contacted by a Counseling and Testing advisor or counselor to discuss possible strategies for completing your course successfully.

The NCTC CARES (Campus Assessment Response Evaluation Services) Team addresses behavior which may be disruptive, harmful or pose a threat to the health and safety of the NCTC community-such as stalking, harassment, physical or emotional abuse, violent or threatening behavior, or self-harm. As a student, you have the ability to report concerning behavior, which could impact your own safety or the safety of another NCTC student. Just click the NCTC CARES Team logo posted on MyNCTC, or send an e-mail to CARESTeam@nctc.edu.  As always, if you feel there is an immediate threat to your own safety or welfare (or to another student), please call 911 immediately.

Childcare Reimbursement Program
The Childcare Reimbursement Program provides support services for NCTC students pursuing a career in a technical field of study to help them complete their career plans. The program will reimburse technical declared students a percentage of their daycare expenses if the child is attending a licensed or registered daycare facility.  This is on a first come first serve basis, and is available to students on all 5 campuses.

Please note, we do not have a childcare facility on any of our 5 campuses. This is a reimbursement program only.

Students who wish to become eligible for Childcare Assistance Program need to:

• Declare in a technical field of study
• Establish financial need
• Ex: Pell Grant recipient, Food Stamp recipient, W2,  etc.
• Complete a Childcare Reimbursement Program Application and provide all necessary documentation.  The  Application can be found online at https://www.nctc.edu/student-services/child-care-reimbursement.html 
• For more information, please contact Yvonne Sandmann on the Gainesville Campus at 940-668-3300, or by email at ysandmann@nctc.edu.

Student Success Center

The Student Success Center is designed to help all students at NCTC develop tools to achieve their academic goals. The center links students to FREE tutoring, including a Writing Center, a Math Lab, and free online tutoring in the evening.  The program helps students acclimate to college by providing students free interactive workshops. For more information, please visit your nearest Student Success Center.

 

 

Other Pertinent Information

Dropping Courses:

If a student’s personal circumstances dictate that he or she needs to reduce his/her academic load, that student should confer with his/her advisor for assistance in adjusting the number of courses being taken.  A grade of “W” will be given to students who officially withdraw from a course, or “drop”, at least by Thursday of the 11th week of a Fall or Spring semester, or a proportional number of weeks prior to the end of a flex-entry course or summer session.  Any drops after this will be made with the approval of the instructor and the Department Chair.

It is the student’s responsibility to initiate the action necessary to drop courses under the conditions outlined above.  This requires the completion of a petition for course drop form available in the Registrar’s Office on any NCTC Campus or by going to the NCTC website at www.nctc.edu and clicking on Admissions and Registration.  Choose the forms on-line option and follow directions for submission of form.  This form must be submitted on or before the last day to drop with a “W” (see Academic Calendar in front of catalog for specific date) and it is not available until after the official date of record. Prior to the official date of record, a student should go to the Registrar’s Office and complete the required forms.

Students who register for courses are required to drop any courses they no longer wish to attend or a final grade will be assigned.  Instructors may drop students from courses for non-attendance by completing a petition for course drop.

Class Communications:

I expect you to check your email every day on M-F. I check my email several times a day Monday through Friday. I do not check emails on the weekends from Friday at 5:00 pm to Monday morning at 9:00 am.

 

Certificate Programs:

If you are planning to complete a certificate, you must take the competency exam prior to graduation. Contact Susan Svane at ssvane@nctc.edu within three weeks of graduation.

 

Tobacco-Free Campus
NCTC restricts the use of all tobacco products including cigarettes, cigars, pipes and smokeless tobacco on campus property. NCTC is aware that tobacco use influences underage students which cumulates unsightly tobacco litter and interferes with assuring clean air for all who come to NCTC. NCTC recognizes the health hazards of tobacco use and of exposure to second hand smoke. Information on a tobacco cessation program is available for students, faculty, staff who wish to stop using tobacco products. We would like to "thank you" for your help in making our campuses Tobacco-Free. For questions or concerns please contact the Office of the Dean of Student Services at 940.498.6445.

Notice
While we provide the locations to download the software for this class, it’s your responsibility to install the software on your computer, and ensure it is executing properly. NCTC is not and cannot be responsible for installing any of the software programs and the proper operation of your computer.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Unit Competencies

 

 

I. Discuss Operating Systems, the key features of Linux, and role of Linux in industry.

            Performance Objectives:

            The student will:

1. Understand the purpose of an operating system.
2. Outline the key features of the Linux operating system.
3. Describe the origins of the Linux Operating system.
4. Explain the common uses of Linux in industry today.

Assessment:

Homework/Lab Assignments for each chapter.

True/False, Multiple Choice, and Matching quiz for each chapter.

Multiple choice exams over textbook.

 

 

II. Demonstrate the ability to prepare for, install and configure and industry standard version of the Linux operating system.

            Performance Objectives:

            The student will:

1. Describe common types of hardware and their features.
2. Outline the hardware and software information necessary to install Linux.
3. Demonstrate installation of Linux using good practices.
4. Properly shut down the Linux operating system.

Assessment:

Homework/Lab Assignments for each chapter.

True/False, Multiple Choice, and Matching quiz for each chapter.

Multiple choice exams over textbook.

 

 

III. Discuss the Linux Filesystem and knowledge of filesystem management and administration.

            Performance Objectives:

            The student will:

1. Demonstrate navigation of the Linux directory structure using relative and absolute pathnames.
2. Discuss types of files, filenames and file types, using grep to search files and usage of the vi text editor.
3. Demonstrate usage of standard Linux commands to manage files and directories; modify file and directory ownership; file and directory permissions; apply permissions to special directories and files.
4. Perform mounting and unmounting devices to and from the Linux directory tree; create hard disk partitions; checking filesystems for errors; and setting of quotas to limit user space usage.

Assessment:

Homework/Lab Assignments for each chapter.

True/False, Multiple Choice, and Matching quiz for each chapter.

Multiple choice exams over textbook.

 

IV. Demonstrate knowledge of the BASH shell and X windows.

            Performance Objectives:

            The student will:

1. Demonstrate redirection of the input and output of a command; manipulation of common shell environment variables.
2. Describe the purpose and nature of shell scripts.
3. Discuss the steps necessary to boot a Linux system; configure the GRUB boot loader.
4. Discuss the purpose of X Windows, Window Manager, and the desktop environment.
5. Configure X Windows settings using various Linux utilities.

Assessment:

Homework/Lab Assignments for each chapter.

True/False, Multiple Choice, and Matching quiz for each chapter.

Multiple choice exams over textbook.

 

 

V. Discuss management of Linux processes and common administrative tasks with Linux.

            Performance Objectives:

            The student will:

1. Discuss the different types of processes on a Linux System and how binary programs and shell scripts are executed.
2. Demonstrate usage of utilities to modify the priority of a process; schedule commands to execute in the future and to execute repetitively using the correct daemon.
3. Demonstrate setting up and administration of printers.
4. Demonstrate creation, modification, managing, and deleting user and group accounts.

Assessment:

Homework/Lab Assignments for each chapter.

True/False, Multiple Choice, and Matching quiz for each chapter.

Multiple choice exams over textbook.

 

 

VI. Demonstrate usage of file compression, system backup, and installation of software.

            Performance Objectives:

            The student will:

1. Demonstrate compression and decompression of files using common compression utilities.
2. Demonstrate system backups using tar, cpio and dump commands.
3. Describe common types of Linux software.
4. Demonstrate installation of software packages from source code, and utilization of the Package Manager to install, manage, and remove software packages.

Assessment:

Homework/Lab Assignments for each chapter.

True/False, Multiple Choice, and Matching quiz for each chapter.

Multiple choice exams over textbook.

 

 

 

 

 

 

VII. Discuss troubleshooting of operating system problems and methodologies for measuring and enhancing system performance.

            Performance Objectives:

            The student will:

1. Describe and identify good troubleshooting practices.
2. Demonstrate effective troubleshooting of common hardware and software related problems.
3. Demonstrate utilization of command-line and graphical utilities to monitor system performance; identify and fix common performance problems.
4. Discuss the purpose and usage of kernel modules; recompilation and patching of the Linux kernel.

Assessment:

Homework/Lab Assignments for each chapter.

True/False, Multiple Choice, and Matching quiz for each chapter.

Multiple choice exams over textbook.

 

VIII. Discuss configuration of networks, network services and security.

            Performance Objectives:

            The student will:

1. Discuss the purpose and types of networks, protocols and media access methods.
2. Demonstrate configuration of a NIC interface to use TCP/IP; configure a modem ISDN and DSL interface to PPP and TCP/IP.
3. Discuss the purpose of host names and resolution to IP addresses.
4. Demonstrate configuration of network services, routing and firewalls.
5. Discuss the facets of Linux security, increasing the security of a Linux computer and means to detect a Linux security breach.

Assessment:

Homework/Lab Assignments for each chapter.

True/False, Multiple Choice, and Matching quiz for each chapter.

Multiple choice exams over textbook.

 

Workforce Education Program Elements (SCANS Skills)

 

The Secretary’s Commission on Achieving Necessary Skills (SCANS) conducted extensive research and interviews and determined that “workplace know-how” consists of two elements:  foundations skills and workplace competencies.  Upon successful completion of the courses in this program, students will have demonstrated the following competencies: 

 

1. Foundation Skills

 

1. Basic Skills:  A worker must (i) read, (ii)write, (iii) perform arithmetic and mathematical operations, (iv) listen, and (v) speak effectively.

 

2. Thinking Skills: A worker must (i) think creatively, (ii) make decisions, (iii) solve problems, (iv) visualize, (v) know how to learn, and (vi) reason effectively.

 

3. Personal Qualities:  A worker must display (i) responsibility, (ii) self-esteem, (iii) sociability, (iv) self-management, (v) integrity, and (vi) honesty.

 

 

2. Workplace Competencies

 

1. Resources:  A worker must identify, organize, plan, and allocate resources effectively.  This includes (i) time, (ii) money, (iii) material and facilities, and (iv) human resources.

 

2. Interpersonal Skills:  A worker must work with others effectively to (i) participate as a member of a team, (ii) teach others new skills, (iii) serve clients/customers, (iv) exercise leadership, (v) negotiate, and (vi) work with diversity.

 

3. Information:  A worker must be able to (i) acquire and use information, (ii) organize and maintain information, (iii) interpret and communicate information and (iv) use computers to process information.

 

4. Systems:  A worker must understand complex interrelationships as in (i) understanding systems, (ii) monitor and correct performance, and (iii) improve and design systems.

 

5. Technology:  A worker must be able to work with a variety of technologies, e.g. (i) select technology, (ii) apply technology, and (iii) maintain and troubleshoot equipment.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

COVID-19 Specific Syllabi Statements Fall 2020

 

Syllabi statement regarding potential Conversion of Onsite Classes to Online/Remote Format: North Central Texas College students should be aware that in the event of a college closure due to COVID-19, onsite classes will be converted to an online/remote format. Students should plan ahead to ensure they have access to the computer equipment (either PC, MAC, or tablet), webcam, and internet connectivity to continue their classes in an online/remote format. Please read all your official North Central Texas College student emails as the transition from onsite to online/remote might require a reorganization in your personal situation. Students will be granted a 72-hour transition and grace period. Online classes will continue as scheduled without disruption. Wear a mask, stay safe, and contact your Instructor as the situation arises. These policies and procedures were updated on July 30, 2020 and are subject to change.

 

Syllabi Statement Regarding Face Coverings: Per the North Central Texas College guidance on face coverings on campus, in the instructional setting, faculty and students must wear face coverings, such as masks or face shields. Students without coverings, or those who do not comply with the rules relating to face coverings, will not be able to participate in on-campus classroom activities. To request an exception to this requirement, students should contact the NCTC HR Office of Enrollment Management (ccove@nctc.edu). Failure to comply with the face coverings requirement may result in the Instructor directing the student to leave the classroom. Any student asked to leave the classroom may be referred to the student conduct officer. These policies and procedures were updated on July 30, 2020 and are subject to change.

 

Temporary COVID-19 Attendance Policy for Face-to-Face Meetings: We are facing an unprecedented situation in which all of us must be flexible and make prudent decisions in the best interest of our families, our campus, and our community. In light of this, North Central Texas College is temporarily establishing the requirement that faculty keep records of student attendance for face-to-face course meetings as well as a documented seating chart. In addition, students who are sick or need to quarantine should not attend classes. Students will not be required to provide formal documentation from a health care provider and will not be penalized for COVID-19 related absences when proper notification to campus health officials is made in accordance with the guidelines stated below.

 

Faculty will:

 

• Notify students about important course information and delivery changes through Canvas and campus email.

 

Students should:

• Provide notification to campus officials (via NCTC Daily Health Check protocol through Canvas) if they have tested positive for COVID-19 or have to quarantine so we can confirm reported absence with instructors, monitor, and assist the campus community.
• Notify instructors in advance of the absence.
• Connect with that class through Webex if the class session is being transmitted in a hybrid fashion.
• Keep up with and/or make up missed classwork or assignments.
• Submit assignments digitally through Canvas or other means as announced by your instructor.
• Work with their instructors to reschedule exams, labs, and other critical academic activities described in the course syllabus.
• Check Canvas and campus email daily to receive important announcements pertaining to the course.

During this period, faculty with face-to-face meetings will establish assigned seating/work stations to facilitate roll-taking, and, if necessary, contact tracing. Additionally, we ask all members of the College community to be attentive to their health, and safeguard others, by following the CDC’s guideline to “stay home when you are sick.” You should stay home if you have symptoms. More information on what to do if you are sick is available at the CDC’s website.

Additional NCTC information is available at http://www.nctc.edu/coronavirus/index.html

 

 

 

Syllabus Addendum – Fall 2020 – Student Services

 

Student Success Center

The Student Success Center is designed to help all students at NCTC develop tools to achieve their academic goals. The center links students to FREE tutoring, including a Writing Center, a Math Lab, and free online tutoring.  The program helps students acclimate to college by providing free interactive online workshops. For more information, please visit your nearest Student Success Center.

 

Student Success offers academic coaching, tutoring, including a Writing Center, and a Math Lab to assist new students acclimate to college by providing computer lab services for prospective students. http://www.nctc.edu/student-services/student-success/tutoring/index.html

First generation students can also participate in TRIO which offers specialized services.

http://www.nctc.edu/student-services/trio-student-support-services.html

 

Completion Center

The NCTC Completion Center is a comprehensive student engagement program that increases retention and completion rates of first-time, low income students. Services include:

Success coaching to address students’ academic and non-academic challenges and issues; Success Seminars, and a centralized career readiness and job placement program.

http://www.nctc.edu/student-services/completion-center/index.html

 

Career Services Center

The NCTC Career Services Center is the place you can go for educational and career planning. Services include: Career/Degree Exploration, Job Search Tools and Resources, Resume and Professional Portfolio Development, Interview Skills and Preparation. Our Career Advisors partner with you in making your educational journey an efficient process towards a rewarding career. http://www.nctc.edu/career-services/index.html

 

 

 

Counseling and Advising

Support Services, Counseling and Advising staff offer a variety of services to current and prospective students, such as College 101, placement testing, academic advising and course registration, transfer assistance, and College Success seminars (Time Management, Study Skills, Test Anxiety, Choosing a Major, Learning Style Strategies, Career Exploration) and much more.  http://www.nctc.edu/counseling-advising/index.html 

 

 

 

Testing Service Center

The mission of NCTC Testing Services is to provide high-quality testing services that adhere to the professional standards and guidelines to meet the needs of students, faculty, and community members. http://www.nctc.edu/testing-center/index.html

 

 

Early Alert and CARES       

The NCTC Early Alert program assists students who are at risk of failing or withdrawing from a course. Faculty and staff may refer students through the Early Alert process at any point in the semester in an effort to provide appropriate intervention and access to support services. Examples of behaviors that could prompt an Early Alert referral could be missing assignments, failing tests, excessive absences, or personal circumstances impacting academic performance. A student submitted as an Early Alert will be contacted by an academic advisor or success coach through text, phone, and/or via their NCTC e-mail address to discuss any current challenges as well as helpful resources and success strategies-we want our students to finish strong and know that education is a partnership!

 

The NCTC CARES (Campus Assessment Response Evaluation Services) Team is concerned not only about our students' academic success, but also their emotional and physical well-being. The CARES Team promotes a safe learning environment for students, faculty, and staff and is committed to taking a proactive approach in helping our students succeed by addressing the mental, emotional or psychological health and safety of the NCTC community. As a student, you have the ability to report concerning behavior which could impact your own safety or the safety of another NCTC student, such as stalking, harassment, physical or emotional abuse, violent or threatening behavior, or self-harm. Visit the NCTC CARES site to also locate campus and community resources, or email counseling@nctc.edu to get in touch with a member of the CARES Team directly.  As always, if you feel there is an immediate threat to your own safety or welfare (or to another student), please call 911 immediately.

 

 

Financial Aid

Financial Aid offers financial resources for students that qualify, visit the financial aid offices for more information.   http://www.nctc.edu/financial-aid/index.html

 

 

Student Success

At NCTC, student success​ is progress towards collegiate goals, reached in an affordable and timely manner, under professional guidance, empowering students to serve skillfully in their chosen role within their community

Equity

NCTC defines equity as encompassing the practice of acknowledging individual differences and systemic disparities when developing new programs and resources for our campus community, which may sometimes challenge our own beliefs and assumptions, in order to ensure balanced educational opportunities toward completion.

 

Affinity Groups

Staff and faculty representing the Employee Resource Groups (ERG’s), along with academic advisors, counselors and success coaches, serve as mentors for NCTC’s student-centered ​Affinity Groups​.

 

An ​Affinity Group​ is a population of students who have specific needs, barriers or systems they are needing to navigate not only within college, but within life. Providing mentorship, support and resources for identified Affinity Groups such as Black/African American students, veterans and active military, single parents, students with disabilities, adult learners, Latinx, LGBTQ+ and students who have experienced foster care and/or homelessness, enables us to make more impactful, meaningful connections with students who are in dire need of equity and understanding.