IT Fundamentals for Business Professionals: Cybersecurity and social implications from edX

This course is one of the 5 courses of an introductory business information systems series, designed to introduce you to the amazing world of Information Technology.

The series of courses is designed so that a professional in a field outside the information technologies (financial, administrative or managerial) acquires the basic knowledge in Information Technology to be able to interact more profitably with the computer and telecommunications specialists of your company or other corporations with which you are related, being able to specify requirements, evaluate workloads and monitor results in a much more effective way.

The syllabus of the series is based on the CLEP Information Systems and Computer Applications exam.

In this Computer Science course we will deal with cybersecurity and various other social aspects of ICT, such as its effect on globalization, business strategy and other economic processes, ergonomics, cloud computing and professionalcareers in the field of ICT.

By completing the series of 5 courses, you will be prepared to interact effectively with specialists in the Information Technology sector (and pass the CLEP ISCA exam if you wish).

What you'll learn

In this course you will learn about:

The effects of ICT in processes such as globalization, e-commerce, business strategy, competition and outsourcing, among others
Cybersecurity concepts related to intellectual property, privacy, hackers; threats and how to defend us against them.
The phenomenon of Web 2.0 and social networks
The different professional careers that can be chosen in the world of IT

What's inside

Learning objectives

The effects of ict in processes such as globalization, e-commerce, business strategy, competition and outsourcing, among others
Cybersecurity concepts related to intellectual property, privacy, hackers; threats and how to defend us against them.

The phenomenon of web 2.0 and social networks
The different professional careers that can be chosen in the world of it

The effects of ict in processes such as globalization, e-commerce, business strategy, competition and outsourcing, among others
Cybersecurity concepts related to intellectual property, privacy, hackers; threats and how to defend us against them.
The phenomenon of web 2.0 and social networks
The different professional careers that can be chosen in the world of it

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Explores a variety of topics related to ICT, from its effects on globalization to the different professional careers that students can choose

Addresses the phenomenon of Web 2.0 and social networks

Taught by a team of experienced instructors with expertise in the field of ICT

Requires learners to come in with a basic understanding of information technology, making it suitable for beginners

Provides a foundation for learners who want to pursue a career in the IT field or interact effectively with specialists in the sector

Reviews summary

Excellent course for it basics

Learners say that this IT fundamentals course is excellent and informative for students and working professionals looking to learn the building blocks of IT and cyber security. This course gives you the basics you need to get started in the field of IT and cyber security. It also gives you real-world tips for business statistics, ergonomics, Web 2.0, and social media. Students also note that the lectures are clear and engaging and provide examples that anyone can understand.

Engaging lectures with real-world examples.

"The course looks good in providing some important information"

"The lecturers were apt, clear and straight to the point"

"I really enjoyed the course"

Covers IT fundamentals and cyber security basics.

"It gives you all the fundamentals required for Cyber Security"

"It also sites resources to research more on your own"

"I got to learnt so many things including the modern era things"

Great for beginners in IT and cyber security.

"This course is a professional development"

"I am new to this subject"

"I like most the week that were talking about Career in Information Technology"

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in IT Fundamentals for Business Professionals: Cybersecurity and social implications with these activities:

Review computer science basics

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Start by reviewing computer science basics to ease into the concepts will be covered during this course

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Review basic data structures like arrays and linked lists
Review basic algorithms like sorting and searching
Review object-oriented programming concepts

Review computer science fundamentals

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Recall essential computer science principles to strengthen your foundation for this course.

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Revise basic programming concepts
Review data structures and algorithms

Practice using Microsoft Office Suite

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Proficiency in Microsoft Office is essential for success in the business world.

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Create a new document in Word.
Format the document using different fonts, styles, and colors.
Create a presentation in PowerPoint.
Create a spreadsheet in Excel.

21 other activities

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Compile a glossary of IT terms

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Build a comprehensive list of IT terminology to enhance your understanding of technical concepts.

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Gather IT terms from course materials
Define and explain each term clearly

Attend industry events and meetups

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Networking is essential for career development and staying up-to-date on industry trends.

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Find industry events and meetups in your area.
Attend the events and meet new people.
Exchange contact information and follow up with the people you meet.

Develop a Security Assessment Plan

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Create a security assessment plan that outlines the steps involved in assessing the security of an ICT system.

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Identify the goals and objectives of the assessment
Identify the scope of the assessment
Develop a methodology for the assessment
Create a report that summarizes the findings of the assessment

Engage in Study Groups

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Enhance your understanding and strengthen your knowledge by actively participating in study groups with peers.

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Join or form a study group with fellow learners
Establish a regular meeting schedule
Prepare for meetings by reviewing course materials

Review M.E. Porter's Competitive Advantage

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Porter's framework is essential for understanding how businesses compete and achieve a sustainable advantage.

View Competitive Advantage of Nations on Amazon

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Read the book and take notes on the key concepts.
Summarize the five forces that shape competition.
Identify the generic strategies for achieving competitive advantage.

Follow tutorials on network and web security

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Reinforce your understanding of cybersecurity by following along with tutorials on topics like network and web security

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Find tutorials covering network security topics like firewalls and intrusion detection systems
Find tutorials covering web security topics like SQL injection and cross-site scripting
Follow the steps in the tutorials to build a basic understanding of the concepts

Review 'The Innovator's Dilemma'

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Gain insights into the challenges and opportunities organizations face when introducing disruptive technologies by reviewing 'The Innovator's Dilemma.'

View The Disruptive Innovation Set (2 Books) on Amazon

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Read the Introduction and Chapters 1-3
Summarize the key concepts of disruptive innovation
Analyze case studies of companies that failed to adapt to disruptive technologies

Explore cybersecurity best practices

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Enhance your understanding of cybersecurity threats and mitigation strategies through hands-on tutorials.

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Follow online tutorials on cybersecurity measures
Practice implementing security protocols

Follow tutorials on how to use social media for business

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Social media is a powerful tool for businesses to connect with customers and promote their products and services.

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Find tutorials on how to use social media for business.
Follow the tutorials and learn how to create social media profiles, post content, and engage with customers.
Apply what you have learned to your own business.

Follow Tutorials on Ethical Hacking Tools

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Enhance your understanding of ethical hacking techniques by following video tutorials that demonstrate the use of essential tools.

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Find reputable online platforms or instructors offering ethical hacking tutorials
Select tutorials that focus on tools and techniques relevant to the course
Follow the tutorials, take notes, and practice using the tools

Conduct a SWOT analysis for an IT service provider

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SWOT analysis will help you identify the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats faced by the company.

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Gather data on the company's internal and external environment.
Identify the company's strengths and weaknesses.
Identify the opportunities and threats facing the company.
Develop strategies to address the company's strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats.

Attend a workshop on data analytics

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Data analytics is a valuable skill for making informed business decisions.

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Find a workshop on data analytics.
Attend the workshop and learn about the fundamentals of data analytics.
Apply what you have learned to your own business.

Attend a Cybersecurity Workshop

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Deepen your knowledge of cybersecurity vulnerabilities and best practices by participating in a hands-on workshop.

Browse courses on Cybersecurity

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Research and identify a suitable cybersecurity workshop
Register for the workshop and prepare any necessary materials
Actively participate in hands-on exercises and discussions

Attend a cloud computing workshop

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Gain practical experience and insights into the implementation and management of cloud-based systems.

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Register for a relevant workshop
Actively participate in hands-on exercises

Create a presentation on the role of ICT in business strategy

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Creating a presentation will help you synthesize your understanding of the topic and communicate it effectively.

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Research the role of ICT in business strategy.
Develop a presentation outline.
Create the presentation slides.
Practice delivering the presentation.

Cybersecurity Practice Challenges

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Test and strengthen your cybersecurity skills by engaging in practice challenges that simulate real-world scenarios.

Browse courses on Cybersecurity

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Identify platforms or online resources offering cybersecurity practice challenges
Select challenges aligned with the course topics and your skill level
Attempt the challenges and troubleshoot any difficulties encountered

Solve cybersecurity challenges

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Sharpen your problem-solving skills and test your cybersecurity knowledge through real-world scenarios.

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Identify online platforms offering cybersecurity challenges
Solve challenges and analyze solutions

Develop a business case for implementing a new IT system

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This will allow you to apply the knowledge and skills you have learned in the course to a real-world business problem.

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Identify the business need for the new IT system.
Develop a solution proposal for the new IT system.
Estimate the costs and benefits of the new IT system.
Write the business case for the new IT system.

Attend a cybersecurity conference

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Expand your network and learn from experts in the field by attending a cybersecurity conference

Browse courses on Cybersecurity

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Register for the conference
Find a cybersecurity conference that aligns with your interests
Attend the conference and participate in sessions and networking events

Develop a Cybersecurity Strategy for an Organization

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Apply your learning by creating a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy tailored to the specific requirements of an organization.

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Research and identify the organization's IT infrastructure and security needs
Conduct a thorough risk assessment and identify potential vulnerabilities
Develop a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy addressing identified risks
Outline implementation plans and mitigation measures

Volunteer at a local IT organization

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Gain practical experience and give back to the community by volunteering at a local IT organization

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Find a local IT organization that needs volunteers
Apply to volunteer for a role that aligns with your interests and skills
Attend volunteer training and orientation

Career center

Learners who complete IT Fundamentals for Business Professionals: Cybersecurity and social implications will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Project Manager

A Project Manager plans, organizes, and directs the activities of a project. This course may be useful for someone in this role, as it covers the effects of ICT in processes such as globalization, e-commerce, business strategy, competition and outsourcing, among others.

See salaries and explore the career path for Project Manager

Data Scientist

A Data Scientist uses data to solve business problems. This course may be useful for someone in this role, as it covers the phenomenon of Web 2.0 and social networks.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Scientist

Business Analyst

A Business Analyst analyzes business needs and develops solutions to improve business processes. This course may be useful for someone in this role, as it covers the effects of ICT in processes such as globalization, e-commerce, business strategy, competition and outsourcing, among others.

See salaries and explore the career path for Business Analyst

Database Administrator

A Database Administrator designs, implements, and maintains databases. This course may be useful for someone in this role, as it covers cybersecurity concepts related to intellectual property, privacy, hackers; threats and how to defend us against them.

See salaries and explore the career path for Database Administrator

IT Auditor

An IT Auditor examines an organization's information systems to ensure that they are operating effectively and efficiently. This course may be useful for someone in this role, as it covers cybersecurity concepts related to intellectual property, privacy, hackers; threats and how to defend us against them.

See salaries and explore the career path for IT Auditor

Information Security Analyst

An Information Security Analyst plans and implements security measures to protect an organization's computer networks and systems. This course may be useful for someone in this role, as it covers cybersecurity concepts related to intellectual property, privacy, hackers; threats and how to defend us against them.

See salaries and explore the career path for Information Security Analyst

Risk Analyst

A Risk Analyst identifies, assesses, and mitigates risks to an organization. This course may be useful for someone in this role, as it covers cybersecurity concepts related to intellectual property, privacy, hackers; threats and how to defend us against them.

See salaries and explore the career path for Risk Analyst

Cloud Architect

A Cloud Architect designs and implements cloud computing solutions. This course may be useful for someone in this role, as it covers cybersecurity concepts related to intellectual property, privacy, hackers; threats and how to defend us against them.

See salaries and explore the career path for Cloud Architect

Information Technology Manager

An Information Technology Manager plans, organizes, and directs the activities of an organization's information technology department. This course may be useful for someone in this role, as it covers cybersecurity concepts related to intellectual property, privacy, hackers; threats and how to defend us against them.

See salaries and explore the career path for Information Technology Manager

Software Developer

A Software Developer designs, develops, and maintains software applications. This course may be useful for someone in this role, as it covers cybersecurity concepts related to intellectual property, privacy, hackers; threats and how to defend us against them.

See salaries and explore the career path for Software Developer

Security Consultant

A Security Consultant provides advice and guidance to organizations on how to protect their computer networks and systems from security threats. This course may be useful for someone in this role, as it covers cybersecurity concepts related to intellectual property, privacy, hackers; threats and how to defend us against them.

See salaries and explore the career path for Security Consultant

Cybersecurity Engineer

A Cybersecurity Engineer designs, implements, and maintains security measures to protect an organization's computer networks and systems. This course may be useful for someone in this role, as it covers cybersecurity concepts related to intellectual property, privacy, hackers; threats and how to defend us against them.

See salaries and explore the career path for Cybersecurity Engineer

Computer Network Architect

A Computer Network Architect designs, builds, and maintains computer networks. This course may be useful for someone in this role, as it covers cybersecurity concepts related to intellectual property, privacy, hackers; threats and how to defend us against them.

See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Network Architect

Compliance Analyst

A Compliance Analyst ensures that an organization complies with applicable laws and regulations. This course may be useful for someone in this role, as it covers cybersecurity concepts related to intellectual property, privacy, hackers; threats and how to defend us against them.

See salaries and explore the career path for Compliance Analyst

Information Assurance Analyst

An Information Assurance Analyst assesses and mitigates risks to an organization's information systems. This course may be useful for someone in this role, as it covers cybersecurity concepts related to intellectual property, privacy, hackers; threats and how to defend us against them.

See salaries and explore the career path for Information Assurance Analyst