This basic computer skills course is designed for beginners who have little or no prior knowledge of computers. The course covers fundamental computer skills and provides an understanding of computer hardware and software. Students will learn to navigate an operating system, use word processing software, create and format spreadsheets, browse the internet, send and receive email messages, edit images and videos, create presentations, and understand basic computer security and maintenance. Additionally, students will gain an understanding of cloud computing and basic file storage and sharing. The course is delivered over a 10-week period, with a review and assessment session at the end. The course is assessed through class participation, completion of assignments, and a final exam. Overall, this course aims to equip students with essential computer skills needed for everyday tasks.
Module One: Introduction to Computers and Operating Systems
- Understanding computer hardware and software
- Overview of operating systems (Windows or Mac OS)
- Basic navigation and file management within an operating system
- Using system settings
Module Two: Productivity Tools
- Introduction to Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
- Creating and formatting documents using word processing software
- Basic functions and formulas in spreadsheets
- Creating and formatting spreadsheets
- Creating and delivering presentations using Microsoft PowerPoint
Module Three: Internet and Multimedia
- Overview of the internet and web browsers
- Basic search techniques
- Introduction to email and email etiquette
- Basic image editing using GIMP or Adobe Photoshop
- Basic video editing using Adobe Premiere
- Introduction to cloud computing and basic file storage and sharing
Each module is designed to be covered over a period of 3-4 weeks, depending on the pace of the class. The modules build on each other, with the first module providing the foundational knowledge needed for the second and third modules. By the end of the course, students should have a good understanding of computer hardware and software, be comfortable using an operating system, be proficient in using Microsoft Office Suite, be able to browse the internet and send and receive email messages, and have an understanding of basic multimedia applications and cloud computing.
