Basic Computer Skills & Literacy

Introduction to Basic Computer Skills

Overview of the Course

• The course is presented by Janang Hilji Morata, focusing on basic computer skills and literacy.

• Acknowledges a common feeling of frustration among learners regarding their computer performance.

Learning Objectives

• Emphasizes recognizing the importance of computer literacy as a foundational skill.

• Defines what a computer is and identifies its components, setting the stage for deeper understanding.

• Discusses various types of computer users and their differing levels of expertise.

Understanding Computer Literacy

Definitions and Importance

• Computer literacy is defined as knowledge and ability to use computers effectively; it varies based on individual experience.

• Highlights that computers are ubiquitous in modern society, making literacy essential for success in developed countries.

What is a Computer?

Fundamental Definitions

• A computer is described as an electronic device that operates under stored instructions in its memory.

• It processes data into meaningful information through a sequence: accepting data, processing it, and producing results.

Components of Computers

• Modern computers perform operations based on software or hardware programs, enabling diverse tasks.

• Distinguishes between hardware (physical components like desktops, laptops, tablets, smartphones) and software (programming).

Types of Computers

Common Types Explained

• Desktop computers are highlighted as the most common type with specific parts illustrated (monitor, keyboard, mouse).

Detailed Component Breakdown

• Provides detailed illustrations of desktop components including speakers, system units, ports (USB, HDMI), etc.

Using the Mouse Effectively

Mouse Functions

• Describes mouse buttons: left button for actions (e.g., playing videos), right button for menu options.

Cursor Types

Understanding Mouse and Keyboard Functions

Mouse Functions

• The mouse signals for actions depending on the operating system, with various functions available.

• The hand icon indicates a link; selecting it allows users to interact with hyperlinks.

• Text selection is possible for copying, pasting, and editing by highlighting text.

• Different cursor types serve various purposes beyond just moving; they can also select and open items.

• A single click selects an item, while a double click opens it.

Drag and Drop Technique

• To drag and drop an item:

• Select the item using the left mouse button and keep it pressed down.

• Move the mouse to relocate the item.

• Release the button to drop it in place.

Right Click Options

• Right-clicking displays a menu of options; moving away from this menu will cause it to disappear.

Keyboard Basics

• The keyboard includes letters, numbers, symbols, spacebar, backspace, caps lock, shift key, tab key, window keys, arrow keys among others.

• Pressing a letter key types lowercase letters; holding shift while pressing a letter key types uppercase letters.

Advanced Keyboard Usage

• Caps Lock toggles between uppercase and lowercase typing without needing to hold shift continuously.

• Number keys type digits directly; pressing shift with number keys accesses symbols above them (e.g., % symbol).

Input Devices Explained

Definition of Input Devices

• An input device is hardware used to enter data into a computer for processing. Examples include keyboards and mice.

Practical Examples of Input Devices

Understanding Output Devices and Computer Components

Overview of Output Devices

• An output device is any peripheral that receives data from a computer, typically for display, projection, or physical production. Examples include screens, projectors, and printers.

System Unit and Its Components

• The system unit is a box-like case containing electronic components used to process data. It is also known as the tower or chassis.

• Key components within the system unit include the motherboard, CPU (central processing unit), RAM (random access memory), and other essential parts like storage units and power supplies.

Motherboard and CPU Functions

• The motherboard houses critical components such as the CPU, which executes instructions from programs. It performs basic arithmetic logic operations and controls input/output processes.

• The CPU is described as electronic circuitry that carries out program instructions, making it central to computer functionality.

Memory and Storage Solutions

• Computer memory temporarily holds data and instructions for immediate use; it can be either volatile (temporary) or non-volatile (permanent).

• Storage devices hold data for future use. They can be physical media like floppy disks, hard drives, CDs/DVDs, or modern solutions like USB flash drives.

Types of Storage Media

• Floppy disks are circular flexible discs in rigid shells; they have limited capacity compared to other storage options.

• Hard disks provide significantly greater storage than floppy disks; they are housed inside the system unit.

• CDs (compact discs), including CD-ROM and CD-RW formats, offer capacities ranging from 673 MB to 768 MB. DVDs have higher capacities between 4.7 GB to 17.1 GB.

Categories of Computers

Different Categories Explained

• Personal computers include desktops designed for stationary use and laptops that are portable but generally more expensive.

• Mid-range servers support several thousand computers while mainframe computers handle even larger networks with high processing power.

Supercomputers Defined

• Supercomputers are the fastest type of computers available today; they excel in complex mathematical calculations required for advanced applications.

Personal Computers: Types & Features

Popular Series of Personal Computers

• Two major types of personal computers are PCs compatible with Windows OS and Apple machines running macOS.

Desktop vs Laptop Comparison

• Desktop computers fit on desks while laptops are portable enough to sit on your lap; laptops tend to be lighter but more costly than desktops.

Handheld Computing Devices

Computer Usage and Software Overview

Categories of Computer Users

• The discussion begins with the identification of five categories of computer users, starting with home users who utilize computers for web access, entertainment, communication, and personal finance management.

• Home users engage in online banking and investment activities as part of their personal finance management.

• Small Office/Home Office (SOHO) users require local area networks (LAN) for productivity software without needing internet connectivity; they also use specialty software for work tasks.

• Mobile users are represented by handheld devices like smartphones that enable various computing functions on-the-go.

• Large businesses need robust systems including web access and productivity software to enhance performance and scheduling capabilities.

Understanding Computer Software

• The concept of computer software is introduced, distinguishing between system software (like operating systems such as Windows 7/8 or Mac OS) and application software designed for specific tasks.

• Application software includes word processing programs like Microsoft Word, databases, games, and internet browsers such as Chrome and Firefox.

Popular Programs in Computing

• A list of popular programs is provided: Microsoft Word for word processing, Excel for spreadsheets, PowerPoint for presentations, Photoshop for image manipulation, and Access for databases.

• The importance of file management is highlighted through the use of shortcuts on the desktop to streamline access to frequently used applications.

File Management Basics

• Key commands are discussed: Ctrl + X (cut), Ctrl + C (copy), which facilitate efficient file handling within applications.

• File naming conventions are explained using a format that includes a name followed by a dot indicating the file type.

Folder Organization and File Types

• Folders serve to organize files effectively; creating a new folder can be done easily through user interface options.

• Various file types are identified: .docx (Microsoft Word), .jpeg/.gif/.png (image files), .mp4/.avi/.mov (video/audio files), highlighting their purposes in digital storage.

Navigating Files on Computers

• The primary purpose of certain file formats like PDF is emphasized—mainly used for document printing while maintaining quality across different platforms.

• Instructions on how to open files using Windows Explorer are provided along with tips on managing documents effectively within various programs.

Desktop Environment Features

• Discussion about desktop icons emphasizes their role as shortcuts to programs/files; understanding these features enhances user efficiency when navigating the computer environment.

• The significance of the Start menu is noted as it provides comprehensive access to all installed programs/settings connected to hardware devices.

Networking Fundamentals

Communication and Data Transmission

Understanding Communication

• Communication involves a two-way process where participants actively share data, contrasting with one-way transmission which is merely the transfer of data from source to destination.

Communication Devices

• A communication device is essential hardware that allows computers to send and receive data. Examples include modems, which facilitate connections between computers.

Communication Medium

• The communication medium encompasses various methods for sending or receiving information, including cables, telephone lines, cellular networks, and satellites. Wireless transmission eliminates the need for physical lines.

Purpose of Networking

• The primary goal of networking is resource sharing—software programs, data, and hardware devices—to save time and money in operations.

Server Functionality

Role of Servers in Networks

• Servers manage connections among computers and clients by providing necessary information efficiently. They are designed to have more storage memory and processing power than standard workstations.

The Internet: A Global Network

Definition and Scope

• The internet is described as a worldwide network connecting millions of computers globally, enabling users to share information from virtually anywhere with an internet connection.

Reasons for Internet Access

• Users access the internet primarily for:

• Communication with family and friends.

• Information searching.

• Online shopping trends.

• Banking and investing activities.

• Entertainment options like games and movies.

World Wide Web (WWW)

Structure of Websites

• The WWW consists of millions of documents known as web pages. A website is a collection of related web pages grouped together.

Navigating the Web

• To access a website, users type its domain name into their browser's address bar. Each webpage can contain text, graphics, sounds, videos, and links to other pages.

Web Pages: Composition & Navigation

Characteristics of Web Pages

• A web page is a document viewable in browsers like Firefox or Chrome; it’s typically written in HTML language allowing for multimedia content sharing.

Example Navigation on Facebook

• For instance, navigating to facebook.com leads users to its main webpage (home page), showcasing how different sections function within a single website structure.

Internet Navigation Techniques

Addressing & Searching

• Users navigate the internet using addresses that direct them to specific locations or search engines that provide results based on keywords entered by the user.

Utilizing Links

Navigating the Internet: Search Engines and Safety

Understanding Search Engines

• Search engines are essential tools for finding websites when specific addresses are unknown, providing a list of relevant sites.

• Common search engines include Google, Bing, and Yahoo, with Google being the most widely used.

• Hyperlinks facilitate web navigation by allowing users to discover new sites quickly without needing to type URLs.

• Navigating tabs within a trusted website allows exploration without leaving the site, similar to using elevators in a building.

Browser Features and Tools

• Browsers like Internet Explorer offer features that help manage internet settings, including changing home pages and clearing browsing history.

• The home button sets the default page upon opening the browser, while favorites provide quick access to preferred sites.

Internet Safety Measures

• A secure website is indicated by an address beginning with "https"; users should avoid sharing sensitive information on unsecured sites.

• Trust your instincts; if something feels off or too good to be true, it's best not to proceed with transactions or personal information sharing.

• Be cautious about whom you share personal information with; understanding privacy is crucial for online safety.

Applications of Computers in Society

• Computers play vital roles in various sectors such as finance (banking and investing), government transparency, healthcare (patient information management), science publishing, travel industry support, and education.