FIT Syllabus Booklet Final
FIT Syllabus Booklet Final
FIT Syllabus Booklet Final
Conducted by
e-Learning Centre
University of Colombo School of Computing
2020-2025
Computing for the Society
The students of this programme should use the online course environment (FIT VLE at
http://fitvle.bit.lk/) of the FIT programme to do the activities and assignments before the given
deadlines. Also, it is advised to check the announcements of the courses and the site regularly and be
updated regarding course activities, deadlines and examination schedules.
There are online facilitators to support the students studying online. However, the students of this
programme are expected to be self-directed and self-regulated to successfully complete all the
courses within a year from the date of registration. If students fail to pass all the courses within the
said duration, then they should re-register for the programme on time to continue access to the online
course environment and to face the examinations.
Learning Outcomes
Program Content
Course Code: FIT 103-1 (Module 1)
Credit Value: 3
Core/Optional Core
After successful completion of this module the students will be able to,
• Describe the uses and impacts of new technologies in ICT.
• Explain health problems due to computing.
• Use computing devices safely, legally and ethically.
• Identify potential computer risks.
• Explain how to protect computers, software and data.
Course Content:
1.8.1.Criminal Investigation
1.8.2.Threats Detection
1.8.3.Forensics
1.8.4.CCTV
4.4.1.Spams
4.4.2.Virus
4.4.3.Worms
4.4.4.Trojan horses
4.4.5.Ransomware
4.4.6.Spyware
4.4.7.Adware
4.4.8.Scareware
4.5. Social issues related to ICT
4.5.1.Digital divide
4.5.1.1. Definitions of Digital Divide
4.5.1.2. Means of Connectivity
4.5.1.3. Overcoming the Divide and Sustainable Development Goals
4.5.2.Digital Bridge
4.5.3.De-Skilling
6.1.2.HIPPA Act
6.2. Data Protection and Security
6.2.1.Passwords
6.2.2.Software Firewall
6.2.3.Antivirus Software
6.2.4.Backups
6.2.5.Input Controls
6.2.6.Software Upgrades
6.2.7.Disposal Policies and Procedures
6.2.8.General Data Protection Regulations and Principles
6.3. Intellectual property rights
6.3.1.Copyright
6.3.2.Patents
6.3.3.Confidential Information
6.4. Safeguarding Hardware
6.4.1.Handling Storage Media
6.4.2.Storing Computer Equipment
6.4.3.Access Control Systems
6.4.4.Recovery of Stolen Property
6.4.5.Uninterrupted Power Supply (UPS)
6.4.6.Hardware Firewalls
6.4.7.Controlled access through locked doors
6.4.8.Surge protector
6.4.9.Environmental factors
Foundation in Information Technology is a self-learning programme. The candidates can learn online
using the interactive online learning materials available in the VLE (Virtual Learning Environment) for FIT.
The candidates will get information to access the FIT VLE after their registration to FIT Programme. The
learners are encouraged to actively engage with learning activities and attempt the assignments in the
FIT VLE to complete the course successfully.
Assessment Strategy:
The assessment of this course consists of two major components: continuous assessment and final
examination.
There are some practice quizzes and a self-assessment in each of the modules in the ICT Applications
course. The students are supposed to complete those assessments to develop their confidence in learning
(Marks will not be given for these assessments).
At the end of the course, FIT103- ICT Applications, there will be an assignment that consists of 20 MCQs.
The student has to pass this assignment by scoring more than 50% marks. It will be considered as the
eligibility criteria for the final examination.
Final Examination:
The final examination of FIT103 - ICT Applications course includes two components: an e-test and a
practical test. The e-test consists of 50 Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs), and it carries questions from
each module based on their credit weight. The duration of the e-test is 2 hours.
The practical test will be a one-hour assessment conducted under supervision. The students will have to
create documents, worksheets and presentations based on the knowledge and experience gained from
all the course modules.
Final Examination:
The final examination of FIT103 - ICT Applications course includes two components: an e-test and a
practical test. The e-test consists of 50 Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs), and it carries questions from
each module based on their credit weight. The duration of the e-test is 2 hours.
The practical test will be a one-hour assessment conducted under supervision. The students will have to
create documents, worksheets and presentations based on the knowledge and experience gained from
all the course modules.
Ref 1: Stair, R., & Reynolds, G. (2018). Principles of Information Systems, 13th Edition: Cengage
Learning. (Available from pdfdrive.com)
Ref 2: Marakas, G. M. & O’Brien, J. A. (2013). Introduction to information systems. 16th Edition:
Tata McGraw-Hill Publishing Company Limited. (Available from pdfdrive.com)
Credit Value: 4
Core/Optional: Core
45 30 125
2. Hardware Devices 8 5
3. Software Products 4 2
4. Operating Systems 10 10
6. Computer Networks 6 3
7. Information Systems 3 2
Total 45 30
2. Hardware Devices
2.1. Processing Devices
2.1.1. Microcomputer Processors
2.1.2. RISC Processors
2.1.3. Parallel Processing
2.2. Memory Devices
2.3. Input devices
2.3.1. Keyboard
2.3.2. Mouse
2.3.3. Ergonomics and Input Devices
2.3.4. Handheld Devices
2.3.5. Optical Input Devices
2.3.6. Audio Visual Input Devices
2.4. Output devices
2.4.1. Monitors
2.4.2. Data Projectors
2.4.3. Sound Systems
2.4.4. Printers
2.4.5. Plotters
2.5. Storage Devices
2.5.1. Magnetic Storage and Optical Storage
2.5.2. Solid-State Storage
2.5.3. Cloud Storage
2.5.4. Optimizing Disk Performance
2.5.5. Ports in a computer
3. Software Products
3.1. System Software
4. Operating Systems
4.1. Types of Operating Systems
4.2. PC Operating Systems
4.2.1. DOS Operating System
4.2.2. Microsoft Windows Operating System
4.2.3. Apple Mac Operating System
4.2.4. UNIX
4.2.5. Ubuntu Operating System
4.2.6. Hanthana Linux
4.2.7. Android Operating System
4.2.8. Network operating System
4.2.9. Embedded Operating System
4.3. Customizing Operation System Settings
4.3.1. Change theme
4.3.2. Change the Window Colour
4.3.3. Enlarging text
4.3.4. Setting Desktop Background
4.3.5. Customizing Desktop Icons
4.3.6. Using a Screen Saver
4.3.7. Touch Typing
4.3.8. Changing the volume
4.3.9. Managing the other desktop features
4.4. Services of an Operating Systems
4.4.1. Process Management
4.4.2. Memory Management
4.4.3. Device Management
4.4.4. File Management
4.4.5. Security Management
4.4.6. Network Management
6. Computer Networks
6.1. The uses of a Network
6.2. Types of Computer Network
6.3. Structure of a Network
6.4. Network Topologies and Protocols
6.5. Network Media
6.6. Network Hardware
6.7. Protocols
6.8. OSI Model
7. Information Systems
7.1. Different Types of Information System
7.2. System Development Models and Methods
7.3. System Development Life Cycle
Assessment Strategy:
The assessment of this course consists of two major components: continuous assessment and final examination.
Continuous Assessment:
There are some practice quizzes and a self-assessment in each of the modules in the ICT Applications course.
The students are supposed to complete those assessments to develop their confidence in learning (Marks will
not be given for these assessments).
At the end of the course, FIT103- ICT Applications, there will be an assignment that consists of 20 MCQs. The
student has to pass this assignment by scoring more than 50% marks. It will be considered as the eligibility
criteria for the final examination.
Final Examination:
The final examination of FIT103 - ICT Applications course includes two components: an e-test and a practical
test. The e-test consists of 50 Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs), and it carries questions from each module
based on their credit weight. The duration of the e-test is 2 hours.
The practical test will be a one-hour assessment conducted under supervision. The students will have to create
documents, worksheets and presentations based on the knowledge and experience gained from all the course
modules.
Students should pass both assignment 1 and assignment 2 of each module, in order to pass the assessment
component of each module.
Ref1: Introduction to Computers (7th Edition) by Peter Norton, Tata McGraw-Hill Edition,
Ref2: Grade 10 ICT Textbook
Ref3: Grade 11 ICT Textbook
Ref4: Grade 12 Teacher’s Guide
Program Content
Course Code: FIT 103-3 (Module 3)
Credit Value: 4
Core/Optional Core
5. Working on Tables
5.1. Creating a table
5.2. Adding, deleting a column and row
5.3. Apply table caption
6. Mail Merge
6.1. Understand the mail merge process
6.2. Start the mail merge process
6.3. Choose and refine the data source
6.4. Insert merge field
6.5. Preview and complete merge
7. Proofreading
7.1. Applying spell and grammar checking
7.2. Thesaurus
Foundation in Information Technology (FIT) has been designed as a self-learning programme. The
candidates can learn online using the interactive online learning materials available in the VLE (Virtual
Learning Environment) for FIT. The candidates will get information to access the FIT VLE after their
registration to the FIT Programme. The learners are encouraged to actively engage with learning activities
and attempt the assignments in the FIT VLE to complete the course successfully.
Assessment Strategy:
The assessment of this course consists of two major components: continuous assessment and final
examination.
There are some practice quizzes and a self-assessment in each of the modules in the ICT Applications
course. The students are supposed to complete those assessments to develop their confidence in learning
(Marks will not be given for these assessments).
At the end of the course, FIT103- ICT Applications, there will be an assignment that consists of 20 MCQs.
The student has to pass this assignment by scoring more than 50% marks. It will be considered as the
eligibility criteria for the final examination.
Final Examination:
The final examination of FIT103 - ICT Applications course includes two components: an e-test and a
practical test. The e-test consists of 50 Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs), and it carries questions from
each module based on their credit weight. The duration of the e-test is 2 hours.
The practical test will be a one-hour assessment conducted under supervision. The students will have to
create documents, worksheets and presentations based on the knowledge and experience gained from
all the course modules.
Ref 1: New Perspectives Microsoft Office 365 & Office 2019 Introductory (MindTap Course List) 1st
Edition by Patrick Carey, Katherine T. Pinard, Ann Shaffer, Mark Shellman, Sasha Vodnik.
Ref 2: Microsoft Resources (https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/word)
Credit Value: 3
Core/Optional Core
After successful completion of this module the students will be able to;
• Identify the different components in a worksheet
• Carry out basic operations in a given spreadsheet
• Construct formulas to manipulate numeric data in a Worksheet
• Visualize numeric data in different format using the chart functions
• Differentiate between formulas and functions in spreadsheets using Excel.
Course Content:
Topic Teaching (Hrs.) Practical (Hrs.)
1. Introduction to Electronic Spreadsheet 2 2
2. Working with worksheets and workbooks 4 3
3. Formula Creation & Math Functions 6 5
4. Cell for different requirements 4 5
5. Relative & absolute cell reference 5 5
6. Charts for display data 5 6
7. Setting Up Pages 4 4
Total 30 30
7. Setting up pages
Foundation in Information Technology (FIT) has been designed as a self-learning programme. The
candidates can learn online using the interactive online learning materials available in the VLE (Virtual
Learning Environment) for FIT. The candidates will get information to access the FIT VLE after their
registration to the FIT Programme. The learners are encouraged to actively engage with learning activities
and attempt the assignments in the FIT VLE to complete the course successfully.
Assessment Strategy:
The assessment of this course consists of two major components: continuous assessment and final
examination.
Continuous Assessment:
There are some practice quizzes and a self-assessment in each of the modules in the ICT Applications
course. The students are supposed to complete those assessments to develop their confidence in learning
(Marks will not be given for these assessments).
At the end of the course, FIT103- ICT Applications, there will be an assignment that consists of 20 MCQs.
The student has to pass this assignment by scoring more than 50% marks. It will be considered as the
eligibility criteria for the final examination.
Final Examination:
The final examination of FIT103 - ICT Applications course includes two components: an e-test and a
practical test. The e-test consists of 50 Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs), and it carries questions from
each module based on their credit weight. The duration of the e-test is 2 hours.
The practical test will be a one-hour assessment conducted under supervision. The students will have to
create documents, worksheets and presentations based on the knowledge and experience gained from
all the course modules.
Program Content
Course Code: FIT 103-5 (Module 5)
Credit Value: 3
Core/Optional Core
After successful completion of this module, the students will be able to;
• Describe multimedia concepts
• Define the various factors of images
• Edit images using relevant software/tools
• Describe the role of audio in creating multimedia content
• Use audio editing tools for a given requirement
• Develop digital animations
• Create electronic presentations
Course Content:
Topic Teaching (Hrs.) Practical (Hrs.)
1. Introduction to Multimedia 04 02
2. Working with Digital Images 05 06
3. Introduction to Audio 04 04
4. Developing Digital Animations 05 06
5. Introduction to Video 05 06
6. Electronic Presentations 07 06
Total 30 30
1. Introduction to Multimedia
1.1. What is meant by multimedia?
1.2. Evolution of multimedia
1.3. Where and when to use multimedia
1.4. Future of multimedia
3. Introduction to Audio
3.1. Different audio file formats
3.2. Different Software tools to edit audio
3.3. Importance and requirement of audio editing
3.4. Basic and common features of audio editing
5. Introduction to Video
5.1. Role of Video in multimedia content
5.2. Factors of Video Content
5.2.1. Frames and frame rates
5.2.2. Resolution of a Video
5.2.3. Analog Display and Digital Video standards
5.2.4. Video file size
5.3. Creating a video clip
5.3.1. Video editing tools
5.3.2. Common features of video editing software
5.3.3. Developing videos with Windows OpenShot Video Editor
6. Electronic presentations
6.1. Introduction to electronic presentations
Foundation in Information Technology (FIT) has been designed as a self-learning programme. The candidates
can learn online using the interactive online learning materials available in the VLE (Virtual Learning
Environment) for FIT. The candidates will get information to access the FIT VLE after their registration to the
FIT Programme. The learners are encouraged to actively engage with learning activities and attempt the
assignments in the FIT VLE to complete the course successfully.
Assessment Strategy:
The assessment of this course consists of two major components: continuous assessment and final
examination.
There are some practice quizzes and a self-assessment in each of the modules in the ICT Applications course.
The students are supposed to complete those assessments to develop their confidence in learning (Marks will
not be given for these assessments).
At the end of the course, FIT103- ICT Applications, there will be an assignment that consists of 20 MCQs. The
student has to pass this assignment by scoring more than 50% marks. It will be considered as the eligibility
criteria for the final examination.
Final Examination:
The final examination of FIT103 - ICT Applications course includes two components: an e-test and a practical
test. The e-test consists of 50 Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs), and it carries questions from each module
based on their credit weight. The duration of the e-test is 2 hours.
The practical test will be a one-hour assessment conducted under supervision. The students will have to
create documents, worksheets and presentations based on the knowledge and experience gained from all
the course modules.
Program Content
Course Code: FIT 103-6 (Module 6)
Credit Value: 4
Core/Optional Core
After successful completion of this module, the students will be able to;
• Explain the objectives of data and information management
• Describe the fundamental elements of relational database management systems
• Explain the basic concepts of relational database design (relational data model, entity-
relationship model)
• Design ER-models to represent simple database application scenarios
• Convert the ER-model to relational tables
• Populate relational database and formulate SQL queries on data
• Develop structured query language (SQL) queries to create and read relational database data
Course Content:
3.1. Introduction to Relational Model Concepts: Domains, Attributes, Tuples, and Relations
3.2. Relational Database Schemas
3.3. Keys in the Relational Model
Foundation in Information Technology (FIT) has been designed as a self-learning programme. The
candidates can learn online using the interactive online learning materials available in the VLE (Virtual
Learning Environment) for FIT. The candidates will get information to access the FIT VLE after their
registration to the FIT Programme. The learners are encouraged to actively engage with learning
activities and attempt the assignments in the FIT VLE to complete the course successfully.
Assessment Strategy:
The assessment of this course consists of two major components: continuous assessment and final
examination.
Continuous Assessment:
There are some practice quizzes and a self-assessment in each of the modules in the ICT Applications
course. The students are supposed to complete those assessments to develop their confidence in
learning (Marks will not be given for these assessments).
At the end of the course, FIT103- ICT Applications, there will be an assignment that consists of 20 MCQs.
The student has to pass this assignment by scoring more than 50% marks. It will be considered as the
eligibility criteria for the final examination.
Final Examination:
The final examination of FIT103 - ICT Applications course includes two components: an e-test and a
practical test. The e-test consists of 50 Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs), and it carries questions from
each module based on their credit weight. The duration of the e-test is 2 hours.
The practical test will be a one-hour assessment conducted under supervision. The students will have to
create documents, worksheets and presentations based on the knowledge and experience gained from
all the course modules.
Fundamentals of Database Systems by R. Elmasri and S.B. Navathe, 7th edition, Addison-
Wesley, 2015
Program Content
Course Code: FIT 103-7 (Module 7)
Credit Value: 4
Core/Optional Core
After successful completion of this module the students will be able to;
• Describe the evolution of the Internet
• Explain the terminologies related to the Internet and the World Wide Web
• Explain the connecting to the Internet and how web works
• Identify what a web application is
• Use of Web Storage Organization
• Use Web Development Tools for web content development
• Design a simple website
Course Content:
Topic Teaching (Hrs) Practical (Hrs.)
1. History of the Internet 2 4
2. The Terminology of the internet 2 4
3. Connecting to the Internet 4 4
4. New Media and Web Applications 4 4
5. Web Storage Organization 4 4
6. Web Development Tools 7 20
7. Web Application Development 7 20
Total 30 60
Foundation in Information Technology (FIT) has been designed as a self-learning programme. The candidates
can learn online using the interactive online learning materials available in the VLE (Virtual Learning
Environment) for FIT. The candidates will get information to access the FIT VLE after their registration to the
FIT Programme. The learners are encouraged to actively engage with learning activities and attempt the
assignments in the FIT VLE to complete the course successfully.
Assessment Strategy:
The assessment of this course consists of two major components: continuous assessment and final
examination.
Continuous Assessment:
There are some practice quizzes and a self-assessment in each of the modules in the ICT Applications course.
The students are supposed to complete those assessments to develop their confidence in learning (Marks will
not be given for these assessments).
At the end of the course, FIT103- ICT Applications, there will be an assignment that consists of 20 MCQs. The
student has to pass this assignment by scoring more than 50% marks. It will be considered as the eligibility
criteria for the final examination.
Final Examination:
The final examination of FIT103 - ICT Applications course includes two components: an e-test and a practical
test. The e-test consists of 50 Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs), and it carries questions from each module
based on their credit weight. The duration of the e-test is 2 hours.
The practical test will be a one-hour assessment conducted under supervision. The students will have to
create documents, worksheets and presentations based on the knowledge and experience gained from all
the course modules.
Ref 1: https://www.w3schools.com/whatis/whatis_ajax.asp
Ref 2: http://www.evolutionoftheweb.com/#/evolution/day
Ref 3: https://www.google.com/accessibility/products-features/
Ref 4: https://dev.to/flippedcoding/what-is-the-difference-between-a-uri-and-a-url-4455
Ref 5: https://www.w3schools.com/whatis/whatis_github.asp
Program Content
Course Code: FIT 103-8 (Module 8)
Credit Value: 4
Core/Optional Core
After successful completion of this module the students will be able to;
• Draw a flow chart for a given problem to show its solution.
• Write the algorithm using a pseudo code for the given problem.
• Describe the basic structure of a program using a programming language.
• Identify the appropriate data types for variables to represent different data.
• Describe the control structure of a program for a given requirement.
• Write a structured program to solve a simple problem.
Course Content:
3. Data Types
3.1. About data types
3.2. Numeric data types
3.3. Character data types
5. Operators
5.1. About operators
5.2. Arithmetic operators
5.3. Relational operators
6. Conditional statements
6.1. About conditional statements
6.2. Different forms of “if” statement
6.2.1.“if-else” statement
6.2.2.Nested if statement
6.2.3.“if-else-if” ladder
6.3. Switch statement
7. Loop control
7.1. About loops
7.2. “while” loop
7.3. “do while” loop
7.4. “for” loop
7.5. “break” and “continue” statements
8. Array
8.1. Single dimensional array
8.2. Multi-dimensional array
9. String manipulation
9.1. About string functions
9.2. Commonly used string functions
10. Functions
10.1. About functions
10.1.1. The structure of a function
10.1.2. Return type
10.2. Calling a function
10.2.1. Call by value
11. Recursion
11.1. About recursion
11.2. Base case
11.3. Recursive case
12. Pointers
12.1. About pointer
12.2. Types of pointers
12.3. Accessing and retrieving values of variables
12.4. Pointer and array
12.5. Strings as pointers
12.6. Pointer to function
12.7. Call by reference
13. Structures
13.1. About structures
13.2. Defining a structure
13.3. Accessing structure members
Foundation in Information Technology (FIT) has been designed as a self-learning programme. The
candidates can learn online using the interactive online learning materials available in the VLE (Virtual
Learning Environment) for FIT. The candidates will get information to access the FIT VLE after their
registration to the FIT Programme. The learners are encouraged to actively engage with learning activities
and attempt the assignments in the FIT VLE to complete the course successfully.
Assessment Strategy:
The assessment of this course consists of two major components: continuous assessment and final
examination.
Continuous Assessment:
There are some practice quizzes and a self-assessment in each of the modules in the ICT Applications
course. The students are supposed to complete those assessments to develop their confidence in learning
(Marks will not be given for these assessments).
At the end of the course, FIT103- ICT Applications, there will be an assignment that consists of 20 MCQs.
The student has to pass this assignment by scoring more than 50% marks. It will be considered as the
eligibility criteria for the final examination.
Final Examination:
The final examination of FIT103 - ICT Applications course includes two components: an e-test and a
practical test. The e-test consists of 50 Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs), and it carries questions from
each module based on their credit weight. The duration of the e-test is 2 hours.
The practical test will be a one-hour assessment conducted under supervision. The students will have to
create documents, worksheets and presentations based on the knowledge and experience gained from
all the course modules.
Programming Environment
https://www.tutorialspoint.com/compile_c_online.php
After successful completion of this course the students will be able to;
• Exchange information and talk confidently with others
• Pronounce English words accurately
• Engage in active listening and respond appropriately and confidently
• Use English grammar accurately and effectively in communication
• Write effectively and accurately
• Use mechanics of writing effectively
• Use vocabulary meaningfully and accurately to convey meaning
• Retrieve necessary information from IT related texts
Course Content:
2. Pronunciation-phonetics (6 hrs.)
Intended Learning Outcomes
o Articulate unfamiliar words correctly
o Use the dictionary as a useful resource for language learning
o Listen to texts and retrieve information
o Use phonetic scripts to pronounce unfamiliar words
Foundation in Information Technology is a self-learning programme. Candidates can learn online at VLE for
FIT (Virtual Learning Environment for FIT) where all course learning materials are available online.
Candidates will be provided with access to the FIT VLE at the registration for FIT programme. Learners are
encouraged for higher and continuous engagement with learning at FIT VLE for successful completion of the
course.
Assessment Strategy:
Continuous assessment of the course consists of two assignments. Assignment 1 will cover the first half of
the syllabus, while the assignment 2 will cover the second half of the syllabus.
Final Examination
The final examination of the English for ICT course will be an e-test which will be conducted in the supervised
mode. The e-test will consist of 50 Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs). The duration of the e-test is 2 hours.
Three practical tests for listening, speaking & writing will be conducted.
Main References
Ref 1: Grammar for Communication by Parvathi Nagasundaram
©2020-2025 e-Learning Centre, UCSC 44
Computing for the Society
Recommended Links:
Ref 5: https://www.prismnet.com/~hcexres/textbook/
Ref 6: http://grammar.ccc.commnet.edu/grammar/index.htm
Ref 7: http://grammar.ccc.commnet.edu/grammar/composition/composition.htm
Ref 8: http://grammar.ccc.commnet.edu/grammar/adjectives.htm
Ref 9: http://www.englishcurrent.com
Ref 10: http://vlearn.fed.cuhk.edu.hk. word formation
Ref 11: https://linguisticsunimet.wordpress.com/words-and-word-formation-process
Ref 12: https://learningpundits.com/module-view/27-direct-&-indirect-speech/1-english-grammar-tips-
--direct-&-indirect-speech/
After successful completion of this course the students will be able to;
• Use mathematical operations, Display Numerical competency, Solve problems (Computational
skills)
• Use mathematical language (oral, written, algebraic and graphical) (Communication skills)
• Develop and evaluate mathematical conjectures and conversations (Skills of inductive and
deductive reasoning)
• Use mathematical knowledge and techniques to formulate and solve problems (Problem solving)
• Identify connections between important mathematical ideas and concepts, and use these in
Information Technology.
Course Content:
1 Introduction to Numbers and Arithmetic [Ref 1: pg 1-33], [Ref 2: pg 1-17, pg 62-69, Pg 87]
𝑛
○ Write numbers of the form √𝑎 using indices
○ Simplify expressions using rules of indices and logarithms
○ Solve equations that involve indices
○ Identify the relationship between logarithms and indices
○ Solve equations that involve indices and/or logarithms
©2020-2025 e-Learning Centre, UCSC 47
Computing for the Society
○ Change the base of a logarithms and express numbers as powers of different bases
2.1 Indices
2.2 Integral and rational indices
2.3 Rules of indices
2.4 Logarithms
2.5 Rules of logarithms
2.6 Change of base of a logarithm
○ Describe the notion of a base and place value to give examples of number systems
○ Convert a given number (in any of the bases 2, 8, 10 or 16) to a number in bases 2, 8, 10 and 16
○ Describe how conversions between bases 2, 8 and 16 can be carried out easily and use it in
computations and problem solving
○ Perform mathematical operations on numbers represented in any of the bases 2, 8, 10 or 16
○ Give an algorithmic description for addition, subtraction and multiplication in base 2
4.1 Ratios
4.2 Proportions
4.3 Introduction to Percentages and Interest Rates
4.3.1 Percentage of profit and loss
4.3.2 Working with tax and discount
4.3.3 Calculation of simple interest and compound interest
4.4 Time Related Problems
4.4.1 Distance and time
○ Determine the solution to an inequality of the form 𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏 ⋛ 𝑐 and graphically represent the solution
set on the real line
○ Solve a system of two linear inequalities and graphically interpret the solution
○ Solve inequalities of the form |𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏| ⋛ 𝑐 and graphically interpret the solutions
○ Construct inequalities based on some information and determine the solution
12 Common functions and their Graphs [Ref 1: pg 189-250, pg 279-291], [Ref 2: pg 151-167]
13.1 Propositions
13.2 Mathematical proofs
13.2.1 Direct proofs
13.2.2 Contra positive
13.2.3 Method of contradiction
13.2.4 Induction
Foundation in Information Technology is a self-learning programme. Candidates can learn online at VLE for
FIT (Virtual Learning Environment for FIT) where all course learning materials are available online.
Candidates will be provided with access to the FIT VLE at the registration for FIT Programme. Learners are
encouraged for higher and continuous engagement with learning at FIT VLE for successful completion of the
course.
Assessment Strategy:
Continuous assessment of the course consists of two assignments. Assignment 1 will cover the first half of
the syllabus, while the assignment 2 will cover the second half of the syllabus.
Final Examination
The final examination of the Mathematics for ICT course will be an e-test which will be conducted in the
supervised mode. The e-test will consist of 50 Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs). The duration of the e-test
is 2 hours.
References/ Reading Materials:
Main References
Ref 1: Foundation Maths, Anthony Croft, Robert Davison, Pearson, 2016
Ref 2: New Comprehensive Mathematics for 'O' Level 2nd Edition 2nd Edition, Alex Greer, Oxford
University Press (November 1, 2014)
Ref 3: Cambridge IGCSE® and O Level Additional Mathematics Coursebook, Sue Pemberton, Cambridge
University Press; 2 edition (March 7, 2018)
Additional Resources
Free books:
1. Fundamentals of Mathematics, Denny Burzynski, OpenStax CNX
2. Intermediate Algebra, Lynn Marecek, OpenStax
3. Spiral Workbook for Discrete Mathematics, Harris Kwong, Open SUNY (2015), ISBN 13:
9781942341161
4. A Gentle Introduction to the Art of Mathematics, Joseph E. Fields, Independent Publishers
5. Discrete Mathematics with Applications (4th Edition), Susanna S. Epp, Cengage Learning (August 4,
2010)
Other references:
1. Discrete Mathematics DeMYSTiFied, Steven G. Krantz, McGrow Hill
2. Cambridge O Level Mathematics Coursebook, Audrey Simpson, Cambridge University Press; 2
edition (November 23, 2016)
3. Intermediate Algebra, 13th Edition, Margaret L. Lial, John Hornsby,Terry McGinnis, Pearson, 2020
4. Basic College Mathematics, Julie Miller and Molly O'Neill and Nancy Hyde, McGraw-Hill Education; 3
edition (January 27, 2014)
5. Basic College Mathematics, 6th Edition, Elayn Martin-Gay, Pearson, 2019
6. New Grade 9-1 GCSE Maths Edexcel Student Book – Foundation, Coordination Group Publications
Ltd (CGP) (17 May 2019)
7. New Grade 9-1 GCSE Maths AQA Student Book – Higher, Coordination Group Publications Ltd (CGP)
(30 May 2018)