Course Syllabus

V261 Using IT in Public Affairs

Indiana University – O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs

Semester: Fall 2026
Credits: 3
Delivery Mode: In-person (with Canvas-supported instructional activities)

Instructor Information

Instructor: Karen Sowon

TA: Ally Carroll
Office Hours: Posted on Canvas

Contact: Posted on Canvas

 

Note: In accordance with Indiana University policy and Indiana state law, this syllabus is publicly viewable. Detailed assignment instructions, submission links, rubrics, Zoom links, and instructor contact details beyond what is listed above are provided inside Canvas.

Course Description

An introduction to information technology and computing applications in public affairs. Topics include basic IT concepts, data analysis, infrastructure, security and ethics, data and document management, cloud computing, and future trends in IT. Students gain hands-on experience with spreadsheets, data visualization, databases, and web development. No prior experience is required.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course, students will be able to:

  • Work with complex spreadsheets and data models

  • Explain core concepts underlying how computers and information systems function

  • Discuss current issues and emerging trends in information technology

  • Formulate data-driven arguments

  • Create clear, well-designed data visualizations

  • Use relational databases to manage and query data

  • Develop and publish basic websites

  • Apply principles of leadership, teamwork, and project management in individual and group work

Required Technologies

Students are expected to have regular access to:

  • A computer (laptop or desktop; large monitor recommended)

  • Reliable internet connection

  • Canvas (IU’s learning management system)

  • McGraw-Hill SIMnet

  • Microsoft Excel, Access, and related Office tools (via IUware / office.iu.edu)

  • Tableau (desktop or web version)

All technology tools used in this course must comply with Indiana University accessibility, privacy, and security standards.

Accessibility and Inclusive Learning

Indiana University is committed to providing accessible learning environments. Course materials are designed to meet federal and university digital accessibility standards (WCAG 2.1 AA). Students who require accommodations should contact Disability Services for Students (DSS) as early as possible. Once accommodations are approved, please notify the instructor through official DSS channels.

Use of AI and Academic Integrity

Permitted Use of AI

Students are encouraged to use generative AI tools (e.g., ChatGPT) to support learning, such as brainstorming, debugging, or improving understanding of course concepts.

Requirements:

  • AI use must be clearly documented

  • Prompts and a brief description of how AI was used must be included with submitted work

Prohibited Use of AI

  • AI tools may not be used on quizzes or exams

  • Submitting work entirely generated by AI without meaningful student contribution constitutes plagiarism

Violations will be treated as academic misconduct and referred under the IU Code of Student Rights, Responsibilities, and Conduct.

Attendance and Participation

Attendance is required. Most class sessions include a short graded activity or quiz that also records attendance.

  • Two lowest participation scores are dropped

  • Students who miss three or more classes without contacting the instructor may receive negative participation points

Participation expectations and detailed grading criteria are provided in Canvas.

Assignments and Evaluation

Students can earn up to 1,575 points during the semester:

  • Midterm & Final Exams: 350 points (22%)

  • Team Projects: 420 points (27%)

  • SIMnet Projects: 250 points (14%)

  • SIMnet Chapter Exams: 190 points (12%)

  • Participation: 220 points (14%)

  • Other Assignments: 240 points (9%)

Grading Scale

Grade Percentage
A+ 97–100%
A 93–96.9%
A- 90–92.9%
B+ 87–89.9%
B 83–86.9%
B- 80–82.9%
C+ 77–79.9%
C 73–76.9%
C- 70–72.9%
D+ 66.6–69.9%
D 60–66.5%
F < 60%

Late Work Policy

  • Late assignments are penalized 10% per day

  • Assignments more than three days late are not accepted unless prior arrangements are made due to documented extenuating circumstances

Exams and Assessments

  • Exams are completed in class or via Canvas/SIMnet as specified

  • Use of unauthorized resources (including AI tools) during exams is prohibited

Copyright and Course Materials

All course materials are protected under Indiana University intellectual property policy. Students may not distribute, sell, or repost or upload course content to an AI tool without written permission from the instructor.

Respectful Learning Environment

Students are expected to engage respectfully with peers and the instructor. Harassment, discrimination, or disruptive behavior—online or in person—will not be tolerated.

Health, Wellness, and Title IX

IU provides extensive health, counseling, and support resources, including CAPS, Title IX offices, and confidential advocacy services. Faculty are required to report disclosures of sexual misconduct to appropriate university officials.

Course Schedule (Public Summary)

This course follows a structured weekly progression covering:

  • Foundations of information technology in public affairs

  • Spreadsheet analysis and data visualization (Excel)

  • Business intelligence and analytics (Tableau)

  • Database concepts and relational design (Access)

  • Web publishing and emerging issues in technology policy

A detailed weekly schedule with specific dates, readings, activities, and due dates is provided in Canvas under Modules. The instructor reserves the right to adjust the schedule as needed, with changes communicated via Canvas.

This syllabus is subject to change. Any updates will be communicated via Canvas.