Course Catalog Computer Basics
Digital Literacy
3 units / 37 items
The goal of this entry-level course is to equip students with essential digital literacy skills, important for both personal and professional success in today's digital world. By mastering basic computer and internet skills, students will improve their productivity, safety, and digital communication abilities. Even tech-savvy learners should find this course helpful.
Course Objectives
- Understand the function of basic hardware and software components.
- Navigate efficiently through an operating system (Windows or macOS).
- Employ effective internet search strategies.
- Practice digital communication etiquette.
- Apply best practices for digital security and privacy.
- Utilize common productivity tools and cloud storage solutions.
Unit 1
Intro to Computers
Learn the basics of hardware, software, and computer safety.
- Slideshow"When am I going to use this?"
- ReadingWhat Does It Mean to Be Digitally Literate?
- SlideshowBasics of Computer Safety
- CheckpointHow Will Technology Help Me?
- ReadingHardware and Software
- VideoThe Fetch-Execute Cycle: What's Your Computer Actually Doing?
- ReadingComputer Hazards
- VideoThe Worst Typo I Ever Made (Why backups are important)
- ReadingCables and Ports
- CheckpointHands-on Exercise - Identifying Hardware
- ReadingFiles, Data, and Information
- Reading"Why is my computer so slow?"
- ReadingYour Computer's Properties
- CheckpointUnit 1 Recap & Review Exercises
- TestUnit 1 Test
Unit 2
Navigating Your OS
Become more comfortable with your operating system of choice (Windows or macOS).
- Slideshow"What Is an Operating System?"
- VideoWhat Is an Operating System (as Fast as Possible)
- ReadingThe User Interface (Navigation Basics)
- ReadingFile Management
- ReadingCustomizing Your OS
- VideoTop Windows 10 Shortcut Keys
- ReadingKeyboard Shortcuts
- CheckpointHands-on Exercise - Keyboard Shortcuts Practice
- CheckpointUnit 2 Recap & Review Exercises
- TestUnit 2 Test
Unit 3
Internet Skills
Develop efficient web searching techniques, email etiquette, and online safety.
- SlideshowThe Internet & the World Wide Web
- ReadingWeb Browsers
- VideoSearch Engines (as Fast as Possible)
- ReadingSearch Engines
- ReadingEmail
- VideoWhy You Should Turn On Two Factor Authentication
- CheckpointHands-on Exercise - Setting Up an Email Account
- SlideshowSocial Networking: The Pros and Cons
- CheckpointHands-on Exercise - Social Media (Instagram Account)
- ReadingCloud Storage
- ReadingOnline Shopping
- TestUnit 3 Test