Basic Computer Skills and Appropriate Behavior
1. Appropriate Behavior When Using Computers
- Always respect the privacy of other students' work. Do not open, edit, or delete files that do not
belong to you.
- Follow the school or workplace rules regarding internet usage.
- Do not install unauthorized software or modify system settings.
- Use polite and appropriate language when communicating online.
- Handle computer hardware gently to avoid damage.
- Report any issues or malfunctions to the teacher or IT support immediately.
2. Identifying Computer Parts and Peripheral Devices
A computer consists of various components and peripheral devices that help in input, processing,
and output of data.
Main Parts of a Computer:
- Monitor - Displays information.
- CPU (Central Processing Unit) - The brain of the computer.
- Keyboard - Used to input text and commands.
- Mouse - Used to point, click, and select items.
Peripheral Devices:
- Printer - Outputs hard copies of documents.
- Scanner - Converts physical documents into digital form.
- Speakers - Output sound.
- USB Flash Drive - Stores and transfers data.
- External Hard Drive - Provides additional storage.
3. Using a Mouse and Desktop Icons
Mouse Functions:
- Point: Move the cursor to highlight objects.
- Click: Press the left mouse button once to select an item.
- Double-click: Quickly press the left mouse button twice to open files or programs.
- Drag: Hold the left mouse button and move an item.
Desktop Icons and Their Functions:
- Recycle Bin/Trash Can: Stores deleted files temporarily.
- Internet Browser (e.g., Google Chrome, Internet Explorer): Used for browsing the web.
- My Computer/This PC: Gives access to files and storage drives.
4. Basic Computer Operations
Starting a Computer:
- Press the power button.
- Wait for the operating system to load.
Restarting a Computer:
- Click on the Start Menu.
- Select 'Restart' to reboot the system.
Shutting Down a Computer Properly:
- Click on the Start Menu.
- Choose 'Shut Down' to turn off the computer safely.
Window Management:
- Minimize: Click the '-' button to hide a window.
- Maximize: Click the square icon to expand a window to full screen.
- Resize: Click and drag the window's edge to adjust size.
- Scroll Bar: Used to move up and down a window's content.
5. Technology Vocabulary
- Hardware - The physical components of a computer (e.g., monitor, keyboard).
- Software - Programs and operating systems that run on a computer.
- Operating System - The software that manages hardware and software (e.g., Windows, macOS).
- File - A digital document stored on a computer.
- Folder - A container used to organize files.
6. Proper Keyboarding Techniques
Ergonomics & Posture:
- Sit straight with feet flat on the ground.
- Keep wrists relaxed and fingers curved over the keyboard.
- Maintain a comfortable distance from the monitor.
Home Row Keys:
- The home row consists of ASDF JKL;
- Keep fingers on the home row and use correct finger placement.
Special Keys and Their Functions:
- Enter - Confirms commands or moves to the next line.
- Backspace - Deletes characters to the left of the cursor.
- Delete - Removes characters to the right of the cursor.
- Shift - Used to capitalize letters and access symbols.
- Caps Lock - Enables uppercase letters.
- Control (Ctrl) & Alt - Used for keyboard shortcuts.
- Arrow Keys - Navigate through text or objects on the screen.
Numeric Keying (Top Row Keys):
- Numbers are located above the letters on the keyboard.
- Use the correct finger placement when typing numbers.
Keyboard Shortcuts:
- Ctrl + C - Copy
- Ctrl + V - Paste
- Ctrl + X - Cut
- Ctrl + Z - Undo
- Ctrl + P - Print
7. Word Processing Basics
- Open a word processing software (e.g., Microsoft Word, Google Docs).
- Create, edit, and format text.
- Save and print documents.
8. Understanding Basic Computer Terms
- Input Devices - Hardware used to enter data (e.g., keyboard, mouse, scanner).
- Output Devices - Hardware that displays results (e.g., monitor, printer, speakers).
- Storage Devices - Used to store data (e.g., hard drives, USB drives).
- Processing - The computer's ability to compute data and execute programs.
By understanding these fundamental concepts, you can use computers efficiently and responsibly!