Introducon to - Version) 5e Kelly Rainer, Brad Prince, Casey C...

Introduc�on to Informa�on Systems (Interna�onal Student Version) 5e Kelly Rainer, Brad Prince, Casey Cegielski (Solu�ons Manual All Chapters, 100% Original Verified, A+ Grade) 1 / 4

Page 1 of Chapter 1 – Intro to Info Systems (5 th Edition of Introduction to Information Systems)

Chapter Outline

1.1 Why Should I Study Information Systems?

1.2 Overview of Computer-Based Information Systems 1.3 How Does IT Impact Organizations?

1.4 Importance of Information Systems to Society

Learning Objectives

• Identify the reasons why being an informed user of information systems is important in today’s world.
• Describe the various types of computer-based information systems in an organization.
• Discuss ways in which information technology can affect managers and non-managerial workers.
• Identify positive and negative societal effects of the increased use of information technology.

Teaching Tips and Strategies

Today’s college students use technology in ways that were not dreamed of just a few years ago.However, because they have grown up surrounded by and using various technologies, technology has become an integral part of many of their lives. Unfortunately, many students seldom think about the whys and wherefores behind the technologies the use every day.

Because nearly all of our students use technology every day in their lives, I have found that they often fail to understand or even see how information technology impacts them and their careers. So it is important to let them know what is in it for them, even if they are not majoring in information Systems.

To do this, it is important for us, their instructors, to encourage our students to step back and observe the bigger picture as to what comprises the fundamentals of Management Information Systems.Unfortunately, if you have not already, you will find that some students will find this task boring or even complain they already “know it all”.

Point out the “What’s In It For Me” section in each chapter so that students know there are reasons why IT is important to each of their majors. This should be done early in the course. You might consider asking students what their major course of study is. Knowing each student’s major and career goals will help you tailor examples, classroom assignments and discussion to the interests of the students.

Explaining how MIS has affected businesses as well as workers alike helps to get students interested in this class. It also helps students to understand the importance when they are told stories of how computers have evolved and how MIS and DSS applications have made management decision-making easier and more reliable.

To support your class discussions and examples through the course, I try to bring in examples from the local area. Most communities around college and university campuses have businesses or government agencies that operate data centers. Many times, students are unaware that they are there. In most cases, the local Chamber of Commerce might be of help in finding these sites.

You might also consider supporting your discussion on the importance of computer technology using examples of how companies save money by using email as another option to the postal service. Students can be introduced to the concept that IT must be paired with business processes to harness IT’s potential. 2 / 4

Page 2 of Chapter 1 – Intro to Info Systems (5 th Edition of Introduction to Information Systems)

IT is important to business leaders all over the world. There are salary statistics for all majors (you can get this information from USA Today’s website www.usatoday.com), Payscale.com (www.payscale.com) or Salary.com (www.Salary.com). Salary information seems to get students’ attention, especially if they realize that if they are more technology savvy they will tend to make more money.

Also have them look at the local Help Wanted ads to see how many job postings for what might be considered non-technical jobs require some IT knowledge.

Blackboard/CMS suggestions

Most colleges and universities have requirements on the design of online courses and what should be included in the campus’ Course Management System where the class is online or as a supplement to an in-class lecture-based class. So what I am including here in this section for this and the rest of the chapter Instructor Guides is based on what I have learned from over ten-years teaching this class, and over five- years teaching it online.

I usually start the term with an online discussion question asking the students about their majors, what they think their technical knowledge is (this can sometimes be surprising because they usually over over- estimate what they know), and if they any fears about technology.

I record a short video for each chapter for my online classes. I have found that if I record a complete lecture, most students do not watch it. So I do a ten to fifteen minute chapter overview video.

If you are teaching an online class or are looking for a short video for a lecture class, I can usually find topic relevant videos at http://youtube.com. The problem is that sometimes they are product demos or sales videos, but they still usually present relevant information or concepts.

The Opening Case

• If every company is now a technology company, then what does this mean for the company’s

employees? Provide specific examples to support your answer.

The student’s responses may vary, but the main thing they need to understand is that employees will have to learn how to use the technologies adopted by the company.

IT’s About [small] Business - Warby Parker

• How might Warby Parker further use information technology to counter large competitors who want

to copy their business model? Be specific.

They currently provide an individualized shopping experiences that has attracted a devoted following among young, trendy professionals. They might consider permitting shoppers to “build” their own glasses using a set of parts options.

Students may come up with additional ideas.

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Page 3 of Chapter 1 – Intro to Info Systems (5 th Edition of Introduction to Information Systems)

Problem Solving Activates

• Visit some Web sites in your that offer employment opportunities in IT. Compare the IT salaries

offered to accountants, marketing personnel, financial personnel, operations personnel, and human resources personnel.

Students will provide comparisons about IT positions (suggest classifications – analyst, developers, support) and salary ranges using the sites listed.

• Access www.irobot.com, and investigate the company’s Education and Research Robots. Surf the

Web for other companies in your region that manufacture robots, and compare their products with those of iRobot.

Students will discuss their findings after searching the site.

Closing Case Baxter: Coming to Work Right Next to You

• Rethink Robotics claims that Baxter will not necessarily replace workers; rather, it will enable

workers to transition into higher-paying jobs. Will Baxter replace workers in small manufacturing companies? Why or why not? Support your answer.


The students’ responses will vary

• Discuss the possible reactions of labor unions to Baxter.

Students’ responses may vary. However, the main issue is going to be the possible reduction of staffing.

• Discuss additional potential applications for Baxter.

The students’ responses will vary.

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