HRMHA270
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HA270 : The Class : Data Communication : Communications

Computers and Communications

"We invent our technologies-and then our technologies reinvent us. Writing freed us from relying on uncertain memory. Movable type broke a virtual monopoly held by church and state on inscribed ideas, and printing presses led to each new intellectual marketplace we call the Renaissance. Each successive media revolution has profoundly rearranged our societies, business structures, and our individual lives...Now we find ourselves in the midst of a new revolution likely to be more profound-and more uncertain-than any history; fueled by the convergence of two fields: computing and communications." Paul Saffo

Introduction and Instructions

The manner in which people communicate has come a long way since 1084 BC when news of the fall of Troy was transmitted by fires lighted on mountaintops. Today, people are linked wires carrying voice and computer signals via the telephone system. This method of information delivery is referred to as data communications, the combination of telecommunications (any system for communicating over a long distance) and data processing. The union of these two technologies has resulted in greater information Access and is the focus of this module.

This module discusses the pervasive impact that data communications has had on the world of business. The reader learns about data communications terminology, hardware, networks, network management, delivery methods, transmission services, hospitality communications applications, systems integration, groupware, and the Internet.

This module is divided into three topical areas:
  1. Wide and Local Area Networks
  2. Hospitality Interface Applications
  3. The Communications Age
The lesson objectives for this module are for you to:
  1. Define basic data communications terminology.
  2. Identify appropriate data communications hardware, delivery methods, transmission services, and applications for a hospitality environment.
  3. Differentiate between a local area network and a wide area network.
  4. Describe the basic components of a local area and wide area network.
  5. Describe the concept of connectivity.
  6. Identify the benefits and challenges of integrating disparate information systems.
  7. Explain basic network management functions.
  8. Identify Internet capabilities that are changing the hospitality paradigm.
To complete this module, you must:
  1. Read the indicated pages of the textbook, Hospitality Information Technology:Learning How to Use It by Collins/Malik
  2. Open and read the hypertext lessons for each topic in the module, including the links in the body of each lesson.
  3. All Assignments Due: TBA via the Virtual Conference Center.

Send E-mail to Galen Collins or call (928) 523-7333

NAU

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