Basic Computer Training Manual

Module 1: Introduction to Computers

Learning Objectives
 Define a computer
 Explain characteristics and functions
 Identify types and generations
 Describe applications, advantages and disadvantages

What is a Computer?
A computer is an electronic device that accepts data (input), processes it according to
instructions, stores it, and produces meaningful information (output).

Characteristics
 Speed
 Accuracy
 Reliability
 Automation
 Large storage
 Versatility
 Diligence

Functions
Input → Processing → Storage → Output

Types of Computers
Supercomputer, Mainframe, Minicomputer and Microcomputer (Desktop, Laptop, Tablet).

Applications
 Education
 Banking
 Healthcare
 Agriculture
 Business
 Engineering
 Communication

Exercise
1. Define a computer.
2. List five characteristics.
3. Mention four applications.
Module 2: Computer Hardware

Learning Objectives
 Identify hardware components
 Differentiate input, output, storage and processing devices
 Recognise ports and connectors

Computer Hardware
Hardware refers to the physical parts of a computer that can be seen and touched.

Input Devices
 Keyboard
 Mouse
 Scanner
 Microphone
 Webcam

Output Devices
 Monitor
 Printer
 Speakers
 Projector

Storage Devices
 Hard Disk Drive
 Solid State Drive
 USB Flash Drive
 Memory Card

Processing Devices
 CPU
 RAM
 Motherboard

Basic Ports
USB, HDMI, Ethernet (RJ45), Audio Jack, VGA.

Safety Tips
 Shut down properly
 Use a UPS
 Keep liquids away
 Clean dust regularly
 Avoid static electricity
Practical
Identify each hardware component on a desktop computer and explain its function.

Basic Computer Training Manual

Module 3: Computer Software

Learning Objectives
 Define computer software
 Differentiate system, application and utility software
 Understand software licensing
 Install and uninstall software safely

What is Software?
Computer software is a collection of programs and instructions that tell a computer how to
perform tasks.

Types of Software

1. System Software
Controls the computer hardware and provides a platform for applications.

 Windows
 Linux
 macOS
 Device Drivers

2. Application Software
 Microsoft Word
 Microsoft Excel
 Microsoft PowerPoint
 Google Chrome
 Adobe Photoshop
 VLC Media Player

3. Utility Software
 Antivirus
 Disk Cleanup
 Backup Software
 Compression Tools (ZIP/RAR)

Software Licensing
Common licence types include Open Source, Freeware, Shareware and Commercial
(Proprietary) software.
Installing Software
Download from trusted sources, verify system requirements, run the installer, follow the
setup wizard and restart if required.

Uninstalling Software
Use Settings > Apps (or Control Panel) to remove programs you no longer need.

Practical Exercise
Install a web browser or PDF reader (if permitted), then uninstall a test application using
Windows Settings.
Module 4: Windows Operating System

Learning Objectives
 Understand the Windows desktop
 Navigate File Explorer
 Manage files and folders
 Use Windows settings and basic administration

What is an Operating System?

An operating system (OS) manages computer hardware and software resources and
provides the interface between the user and the computer.

Features of the Windows Desktop

 Desktop
 Start Menu
 Taskbar
 Notification Area
 Recycle Bin
 File Explorer

File Explorer
Use File Explorer to create, copy, move, rename, search for and delete files and folders.

Windows Settings
 Display
 Network & Internet
 Bluetooth & Devices
 Accounts
 Windows Update
 Privacy & Security

User Accounts
Windows supports administrator and standard user accounts. Use strong passwords and
keep your account secure.

Useful Keyboard Shortcuts

 Windows+E - Open File Explorer
 Windows+D - Show Desktop
 Windows+L - Lock Computer
 Alt+Tab - Switch Applications
 Ctrl+Shift+Esc - Task Manager

Practical Activities
Create folders, rename files, search for a document, customise the desktop background, and
check for Windows updates.
Review Questions
1. Define software.
2. List three types of software.
3. What is the role of an operating system?
4. Name five Windows desktop components.
5. State three Windows keyboard shortcuts.

Basic Computer Training Manual

Module 5: File and Folder Management

Learning Objectives
 Understand files and folders
 Create, rename, copy, move and delete files
 Use ZIP compression
 Understand cloud storage basics

Files and Folders

A file stores information such as documents, images or videos. A folder is used to organise
files.

Common File Types

 .docx (Word)
 .xlsx (Excel)
 .pptx (PowerPoint)
 .pdf (PDF)
 .jpg/.png (Images)
 .mp3 (Audio)
 .mp4 (Video)

Managing Files
Create folders, rename items (F2), copy (Ctrl+C), cut (Ctrl+X), paste (Ctrl+V), delete
(Delete), restore from Recycle Bin.

Compression
Compress multiple files into a ZIP archive to reduce size and simplify sharing.

Cloud Storage
Services such as OneDrive and Google Drive allow you to store, sync and share files online.

Practical Exercise
Create a folder named IT Training with subfolders Documents, Pictures and Projects. Save
files, compress the folder and extract it.
Module 6: Keyboarding Skills

Learning Objectives
 Use the keyboard efficiently
 Improve typing speed and accuracy
 Apply common shortcut keys
 Maintain correct posture

Keyboard Layout
The keyboard contains alphanumeric keys, function keys, navigation keys, numeric keypad
and modifier keys.

Correct Typing Technique

 Sit upright
 Keep wrists relaxed
 Use all fingers
 Look at the screen rather than the keyboard
 Practise regularly

Useful Shortcut Keys

 Ctrl+C Copy
 Ctrl+V Paste
 Ctrl+X Cut
 Ctrl+Z Undo
 Ctrl+Y Redo
 Ctrl+A Select All
 Ctrl+S Save
 Ctrl+P Print
 Alt+Tab Switch Apps
 Windows+E File Explorer

Typing Practice
Practise typing for 15–20 minutes daily. Focus on accuracy before increasing speed.

Assessment
1. Differentiate a file and a folder.
2. Name five common file extensions.
3. State five keyboard shortcuts.
4. Describe correct typing posture.
Basic Computer Training Manual

Module 7: Microsoft Word

Learning Objectives
 Navigate the Word interface
 Create and format documents
 Insert tables, pictures and shapes
 Save, print and share documents

Introduction
Microsoft Word is a word processing application used to create letters, reports, CVs,
assignments and other professional documents.

Word Interface
 Title Bar
 Quick Access Toolbar
 Ribbon
 Document Area
 Status Bar
 Rulers

Basic Formatting
 Font and font size
 Bold, Italic, Underline
 Text colour
 Paragraph alignment
 Bullets and numbering
 Line spacing

Insert Features
 Tables
 Pictures
 Shapes
 SmartArt
 Headers and Footers
 Page Numbers

Useful Shortcuts
 Ctrl+N New
 Ctrl+O Open
 Ctrl+S Save
 Ctrl+P Print
 Ctrl+B Bold
 Ctrl+I Italic
 Ctrl+U Underline
 Ctrl+F Find

Practical Exercise
Create a one-page CV and a formal application letter. Format the text, insert a table and save
the document as PDF.
Module 8: Microsoft Excel

Learning Objectives
 Understand worksheets and cells
 Enter and format data
 Use formulas and functions
 Create charts and print worksheets

Introduction
Microsoft Excel is a spreadsheet application used for calculations, data analysis, budgeting
and record keeping.

Excel Basics
 Workbook
 Worksheet
 Rows
 Columns
 Cells
 Formula Bar

Common Functions
 =SUM(A1:A10)
 =AVERAGE(A1:A10)
 =MAX(A1:A10)
 =MIN(A1:A10)
 =COUNT(A1:A10)
 =IF(B2>=50,"Pass","Fail")

Data Tools
 Sorting
 Filtering
 Conditional Formatting
 Charts
 AutoFill
 Page Setup

Practical Exercise
Create a student result sheet with Name, English, Mathematics and ICT scores. Calculate
Total, Average and Grade using formulas. Produce a column chart of the results.

Assessment
1. What is Microsoft Word?
2. List five formatting tools.
3. Define workbook and worksheet.
4. Write the formula to calculate the average of A1:A10.
5. State three uses of Microsoft Excel.

Basic Computer Training Manual

Module 9: Microsoft PowerPoint

Learning Objectives
 Understand the PowerPoint interface
 Create and edit presentations
 Insert multimedia and charts
 Deliver effective presentations

Introduction
Microsoft PowerPoint is presentation software used to communicate ideas visually through
slides.

PowerPoint Interface
 Title Bar
 Ribbon
 Slides Pane
 Slide Workspace
 Notes Pane
 Status Bar

Creating a Presentation
 Choose a theme
 Add new slides
 Insert text
 Insert pictures and icons
 Use SmartArt
 Add charts and tables

Animations and Transitions

Use transitions between slides and animations for objects sparingly to keep presentations
professional.

Presentation Tips
 Keep slides simple
 Use readable fonts
 Limit text
 Use high-quality images
 Practise before presenting
Practical Exercise
Create a 10-slide presentation titled 'Introduction to My Department' including text,
pictures, SmartArt, transitions and a chart.
Module 10: Internet and Email

Learning Objectives
 Understand the Internet and World Wide Web
 Use web browsers effectively
 Create and manage email accounts
 Browse the Internet safely

Internet Basics
The Internet is a worldwide network connecting millions of computers for communication
and information sharing.

Common Web Browsers

 Google Chrome
 Microsoft Edge
 Mozilla Firefox
 Opera
 Safari

Search Engines
 Google
 Bing
 Yahoo

Email
Email is an electronic messaging system used for personal and professional communication.

Steps to Send an Email

 Open your email account
 Click Compose
 Enter recipient address
 Add a subject
 Write the message
 Attach files if needed
 Click Send

Internet Safety
 Use strong passwords
 Enable two-factor authentication
 Avoid suspicious links
 Download only from trusted websites
 Never share sensitive information
Practical Exercise
Create an email account (if required), send an email with a document attachment, and
perform an online search on a selected academic topic.

Assessment
1. What is Microsoft PowerPoint?
2. Mention five presentation tips.
3. Define the Internet.
4. List three web browsers.
5. Outline the steps involved in sending an email.

Basic Computer Training Manual

Module 11: Cybersecurity Basics

Learning Objectives
 Understand common cyber threats
 Create strong passwords
 Recognise phishing and malware
 Apply safe computing practices

Introduction
Cybersecurity is the practice of protecting computers, networks and data from
unauthorised access, attacks and damage.

Common Cyber Threats

 Viruses
 Worms
 Trojans
 Ransomware
 Spyware
 Phishing
 Social Engineering

Strong Password Practices

 Use at least 12 characters
 Mix upper/lowercase letters, numbers and symbols
 Avoid personal information
 Use a unique password for each account
 Enable two-factor authentication (2FA)

Safe Internet Practices

 Download software only from trusted sources
 Keep software updated
 Avoid suspicious links and attachments
 Lock your computer when away
 Back up important files regularly

Practical Exercise
Create a strong password, identify a phishing email example, and list five ways to protect a
computer from cyber threats.
Module 12: Computer Maintenance and Troubleshooting

Learning Objectives
 Perform preventive maintenance
 Maintain computer hardware and software
 Diagnose common computer problems
 Apply basic troubleshooting steps

Preventive Maintenance
 Clean the computer regularly
 Use a UPS or surge protector
 Install antivirus software
 Keep Windows and applications updated
 Shut down the computer properly

Basic Troubleshooting
Computer will not start: Check power supply, cables and battery.

Computer is slow: Close unused programs, free disk space and scan for malware.

No Internet: Check Wi-Fi, cables and router, then restart network devices.

Printer not working: Check connections, paper, ink and printer status.

Application crashes: Restart the application, update it or reinstall if necessary.

Maintenance Tools
 Disk Cleanup
 Windows Update
 Task Manager
 Antivirus Software
 Backup Utilities

Practical Exercise
Perform Disk Cleanup, check Windows Update, scan the computer with antivirus software,
and document the troubleshooting steps for a slow computer.

Assessment
1. Define cybersecurity.
2. Mention five cyber threats.
3. State five preventive maintenance practices.
4. Explain three causes of a slow computer.
5. List four troubleshooting tools in Windows.
Basic Computer Training Manual

Module 13: Printing and Scanning

Learning Objectives
 Understand printers and scanners
 Print documents using appropriate settings
 Scan documents and save them in different formats
 Perform basic printer troubleshooting

Introduction
Printing produces a hard copy of a digital document, while scanning converts a paper
document or image into a digital file.

Types of Printers
 Inkjet Printer
 Laser Printer
 Dot Matrix Printer
 Multifunction (All-in-One) Printer

Common Printing Settings

 Select the correct printer
 Choose paper size (A4, Letter, etc.)
 Set page orientation (Portrait or Landscape)
 Adjust print quality
 Print selected pages or the entire document

Scanning Documents
 Place the document correctly
 Open the scanner software
 Choose colour or black & white
 Select PDF or image format
 Save the scanned file in the desired folder

Basic Printer Troubleshooting

 Check power and cable connections
 Ensure paper is loaded correctly
 Replace empty ink or toner
 Clear paper jams
 Restart the printer and computer

Practical Exercise
Print a two-page Microsoft Word document, then scan the printed copy and save it as a PDF
file.
Module 14: Introduction to Computer Networking

Learning Objectives
 Understand the basics of computer networking
 Identify common network devices
 Differentiate network types
 Connect safely to wired and wireless networks

What is a Computer Network?

A computer network is a group of computers and devices connected together to share
information, files, printers and internet access.

Types of Networks
 LAN (Local Area Network)
 MAN (Metropolitan Area Network)
 WAN (Wide Area Network)
 PAN (Personal Area Network)

Network Devices
 Router
 Switch
 Hub
 Modem
 Wireless Access Point
 Network Interface Card (NIC)

Network Media
 Ethernet (UTP) Cable
 Fibre Optic Cable
 Wireless (Wi-Fi)

Basic Networking Terms

 IP Address
 MAC Address
 Bandwidth
 SSID
 Internet Service Provider (ISP)

Network Safety Tips

 Use strong Wi-Fi passwords
 Keep router firmware updated
 Avoid connecting to unknown public Wi-Fi
 Enable network encryption (WPA2/WPA3)
 Log out of shared computers
Practical Exercise
Connect a computer to a Wi-Fi network, identify its IP address, and test the internet
connection by opening a web browser.

Assessment
1. Define a computer network.
2. List four types of networks.
3. Mention five networking devices.
4. Differentiate a router and a switch.
5. Explain two methods of connecting to a network.

Basic Computer Training Manual

Module 15: Basic Computer Troubleshooting

Learning Objectives
 Identify common computer problems
 Apply a systematic troubleshooting process
 Resolve basic hardware and software issues
 Know when to escalate technical problems

Introduction
Troubleshooting is the process of identifying, diagnosing and resolving computer hardware,
software and network problems.

Troubleshooting Steps
1. Identify the problem.
2. Gather information from the user.
3. Check simple causes first.
4. Test one solution at a time.
5. Verify that the problem has been resolved.
6. Document the solution.

Common Computer Problems and Solutions

Computer does not power on: Check the power cable, battery, UPS and power socket.

Computer is slow: Close unnecessary programs, free storage space and scan for malware.

No Internet connection: Check Wi-Fi or Ethernet connection, restart the router and verify
network settings.

Printer not responding: Ensure the printer is powered on, connected and has paper and
ink/toner.

Application freezes: Close the application using Task Manager and restart it.
Practical Exercise
Diagnose a slow computer, check internet connectivity, restart the printer service, and
document each troubleshooting step taken.
Module 16: Introduction to Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Learning Objectives
 Understand the concept of Artificial Intelligence
 Identify common AI applications
 Use AI tools responsibly
 Recognise the benefits and limitations of AI

What is Artificial Intelligence?

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is the ability of computer systems to perform tasks that normally
require human intelligence, such as learning, problem-solving, language understanding and
decision-making.

Applications of AI
 Virtual assistants
 Chatbots
 Machine translation
 Image and speech recognition
 Healthcare
 Education
 Agriculture
 Cybersecurity

Benefits of AI
 Improves productivity
 Automates repetitive tasks
 Supports data analysis
 Provides faster decision support
 Enhances customer service

Responsible Use of AI
 Verify AI-generated information before using it.
 Protect personal and confidential data.
 Avoid plagiarism by citing sources where appropriate.
 Use AI ethically and responsibly.

Practical Exercise
Use an AI assistant to draft a formal letter, summarise a short article and generate study
questions. Review the output for accuracy and make necessary corrections.

Assessment
1. Define Artificial Intelligence.
2. Mention five applications of AI.
3. State four benefits of AI.
4. Explain two limitations or risks of AI.
5. Describe responsible ways of using AI in education and the workplace.