Technology in Action: Introductory - Softcover

A Computer Concepts Text Focused on the Way You Experience Technology Today!

As a student of today’s world, you have a great comfort level with the digital environment. Your are intrigued by the exciting things technology can do for you rather than learn about the history of computers.

Technology in Action takes a unique approach and teaches technology the way you actually experience it in real life. The topic sequence covers concepts using a spiraling approach between chapters in order to mirror the typical learning experience. The question-and-answer presentation of the material throughout the text will hold your attention by engaging you in a constant dialogue with the authors. And the unique companion media enables you to interact with technology as you are learning the key concepts.

Would you rather just read about technology, or interact with it?

Technology is exciting, and your course material should be, too.  With Technology in Action, you are not expected to learn by simply reading a textbook; instead, we invite you to explore the interactive multimedia tools that accompany your textbook.  

What will you find on your Student CD or in your myitlab course?

Active Helpdesk Calls — These highly interactive, almost game-like media place you in the role of a helpdesk staffer, answering computer technology questions from callers

·         These reinforce the material covered in the textbook in a fun and engaging way.

·         Help is there if you need it.  You can ask your “supervisor” for help, and be directed to the exact portion of the textbook if you are stuck.

Sound Bytes — These multimedia lessons demystify even the most complex computer concepts with audio and animation or video presentations. 

·         Experience a Virtual Computer Tour or learn more about Blogging and Installing a Home Network.

·         The Sound Bytes are also available as Podcasts!

What about additional study aids?

On the dynamic Companion Website available at www.pearsonhighered.com/techinaction you will find many items that will help you to succeed in this course, including:

·         Online Study Guide

·         Crossword Puzzles

·         an End of Chapter Summary

·         Key Terms and Objectives

·         Web Resources

·         Jeopardy Game!

Three professors from Montgomery County Community College traveled with the Prentice Hall Information Technology team for over two years to uncover what students and professors today wanted and needed in an Intro to Computer Concepts text. After meeting with more than 1,000 students and instructors they developed Technology in Action. Due to overwhelming success, they recently published Technology in Action 7/e!

Alan D. Evans, M.S., CPA

Alan Evans is currently a faculty member at Moore College of Art and Design and Montgomery County Community College teaching a variety of computer science and business courses.  He holds a B.S. in Accounting from Rider University and an M.S. in Information Systems from Drexel University, and he is a certified public accountant.  After a successful career in business, Alan finally realized his true calling was education.  He has been teaching at the college level since 2000.  Alan enjoys giving presentations at technical conferences and meets regularly with computer science faculty and administrators from other colleges to discuss curriculum development and new methods of engaging students. 

Kendall E. Martin, Ph.D.
Kendall has been teaching since 1988 at a number of institutions, including Villanova University, DeSales University, Arcadia University, Ursinus College, County College of Morris, and Montgomery County Community College, at both the undergraduate and master’s degree level. Kendall’s education includes a B.S. in Electrical Engineering from the University of Rochester and an M.S. and Ph.D. in Engineering from the University of Pennsylvania. She has industrial experience in research and development environments (AT&T Bell Laboratories) as well as experience from several start-up technology firms. At Ursinus College, Kendall developed a successful faculty training program for distance education instructors, and she makes conference presentations during the year.

Mary Anne Poatsy, MBA, CFP
Mary Anne is an adjunct faculty member at Montgomery County Community College, teaching various computer application and concepts courses in face-to-face and online environments. Mary Anne holds a B.A. in Psychology and Elementary Education from Mount Holyoke College and an MBA in Finance from Northwestern University’s Kellogg Graduate School of Management. Mary Anne has more than nine years of educational experience, ranging from elementary and secondary education to Montgomery County Community College, Muhlenberg College, and Bucks County Community College, as well as training in the professional environment. Prior to teaching, Mary Anne was a vice president at Shearson Lehman Hutton in the Muncipal Bond Investment Banking department.

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