If you’ve ever wondered what really happens inside your computer or how to keep it running at its best, Computing faculty Fraser Robertson has the answers.
As the instructor for the part-time course COMP 1002: Applied Computer Concepts, and a Technical Architect within BCIT IT Services, Fraser draws on over 25 years of IT expertise to guide students through the fascinating and practical aspects of computing.
Read on for a Q&A with Fraser and why COMP 1002 is a must for anyone who uses a computer.
My goal is to make complex topics understandable and applicable to your daily life and future career.
What is COMP 1002 all about?
“COMP 1002 takes you on a journey through the inner workings of your computer and explores the broader impacts of cloud and cyber security on modern computing.
You’ll gain a solid understanding of how a computer operates and master fundamentals like managing and protecting files, configuring settings, and securing your system and your data.
We also tackle big-picture topics like privacy, data collection, and how cloud computing influences modern software development.”
Who should take this course?
“COMP 1002 is perfect for anyone who wishes to develop a strong foundation in computing, better understand their Windows 11 PC, and troubleshoot issues.
Whether you’re tackling advanced studies or want to ensure your systems run smoothly and securely, the course’s knowledge is indispensable.”
What are some interesting things you’ll teach?
“Computers are so integral to our lives that we often overlook the complexity behind them. In COMP 1002, you will gain experience using software as a service (SaaS), use Operating System (OS) virtualization, cloud computing and implementing data encryption on a Windows 11 PC.
You’ll also explore how the internet feeds massive data models that can influence behaviour and how the ones and zeroes making up your data travel across global networks.”
Lastly, who is Fraser Robertson?
“I’ve worked in IT Services at BCIT for over 25 years, starting at the helpdesk and evolving into roles managing complex systems and exploring future cloud platforms.
Teaching became a passion for me early on, and I love sharing the exciting aspects of computing with students.
My goal is to make complex topics understandable and applicable to your daily life and future career.”
Ready to dive in? Registration for COMP 1002 is still open, with some seats available mornings or evenings, weekends, online or in-person at our Burnaby Campus.
If the winter term is too soon and you want to learn more about the course and get answers to all your questions, consider joining Big Info on February 19 or our online Info Session on February 27.