Computer Basics: Digital Literacy

In this fast paced world of technology, it is important to be computer literate. Computer Basics gives students a better understanding of computers and many fascinating components of the digital world. This course introduces learners to basic hardware, such as traditional desktops, tablets and mobile applications. We will take a look at different types of browsers, tools that can enhance productivity, data storage options and proper internet searching techniques. This course will provide students with a solid framework of knowledge to enhance digital literacy skills, as well as ways to stay current with changes in technology.

Prerequisite: None

Computer Basics: Digital Literacy Module 1
Introduction to the Digital Literacy Journey

• Digital Literacy
• Computer Literacy
• Computers in Society
• Computers and Information
• Digitizing Information
• Where Are Computers Used?
• Computer Threats
• Viruses, Worms, and Trojan Horses
• Social Impact of Computing
• Communication
• Collaboration
• Ethics

Computer Basics: Digital Literacy Module 2
The Hardware Revolution

• History of Computing
• Inventing the Processor
• Main Computer Box
• Processors
• Memory
• Storage
• Binary
• Parallel Processing
• Computer Peripherals
• Mobile Computing

Computer Basics: Digital Literacy Module 3
The Software Revolution

• What is Programming Language?
• Basics of Programming
• BASIC
• Looping in BASIC
• Systems Software “ The Operating System
• Early Operating Systems
• Windows
• Mac OS and Linux
• Utilities and Drivers
• Open Source

Computer Basics: Digital Literacy Module 4
Productivity Applications

• Word Processing
• Presentation Software
• History of PowerPoint
• What Can You Do With PowerPoint?
• Spreadsheets
• How Does a Spreadsheet Work?
• Who Uses a Spreadsheet?
• Databases
• Multimedia Applications
• Mobile Applications

Computer Basics: Digital Literacy Module 5
The Web of Knowledge

• Internet Basics
• Networks
• Basic Network Terminology
• Networking Terms
• Wireless Networks
• The First Browsers
• How to Build a Web Page
• Accessibility
• Usability
• Privacy

Computer Basics: Digital Literacy Module 6
The Search is ON

• What is Information?
• History of Searching
• Taxonomies
• Metadata
• Boolean Searching
• Information Searching on the Internet
• Google
• Bing
• Metasearch
• Searching on the Go

Computer Basics: Digital Literacy Module 7
Web 2.0

• What is Web 2.0?
• Blogging
• Tweeting
• Social and Business Networking
• Wikis
• Email
• Images
• Social Bookmarking
• The Future: Web 3.0
• Dark Side of Social Networking

Computer Basics: Digital Literacy Module 8
The Digital Society

• Privacy
• Piracy
• Cyber Crimes
• Making Money Online
• E-commerce
• Virtual Communities
• Online Education
• Computing Information
• The Law
• Globalization

Computer Basics: Digital Literacy Module 9
Emerging Computer Technologies

• Mobile Phones
• What is a Tablet Computer?
• History of the Tablet Computer
• Touch Screens
• Artificial Intelligence
• The Turing Test
• Cloud Computing
• Advantages of a Cloud
• Disadvantages of a Cloud
• Cloud Storage Systems

**Outlines are subject to change, as courses and materials are updated.**