Unit 3: Basic ICT Skills

Session 1: Basic Computer Operations

• ICT stands for Information and Communication Technology.

• ICT refers to all the methods, tools, concepts related to storing, recording and sending digital
information.
• Information can be recorded or stored in many ways, handwritten on paper, written using a
typewriter and so on. When information is stored and recorded on electronic devices, it takes on a
‘digital’ form.
• ICT skills help us to communicate, run our business and stay connected with our family and friends.
• Hence, every person needs to acquire ICT skills and build them to stay updated with the latest
software and applications (apps).

Computer Hardware and Software

• A computer system consists of two main parts— the hardware and the software.
• The physical parts that we can see and touch are called hardware. It is the machinery of a computer.
These are the keyboard, monitor, CPU, etc.
• Software is the component that we cannot see. It makes the hardware work the way we want.
• The monitor is a physical device or the hardware. When we start a program, for example, a game, it
is displayed on the monitor. This is done by the software which displays text, images and videos on
the monitor.
• Hardware would not be able to function without software.
• The most important software in any computer is the Operating System (OS). This is the software that
starts working as soon as we switch on a computer. It displays the desktop on the monitor. Some of
the most commonly used operating systems for laptops and desktop are Ubuntu, Microsoft
Windows and Mac OS.
• Mobile devices also have an operating system that helps them perform their functions. Some of the
mobile operating systems are Apple iOS and Google Android.

Starting a Computer
 When a computer is switched on, it performs some basic processes/functions before it is ready to
take instructions from the user.
 To start a computer, press the Power button on the CPU. This will start the operating system and
display the desktop.

Basic Functions performed when a computer starts

 A computer automatically runs a basic program called BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) as soon as
it is switched on or the power button is pushed on.
 The BIOS first does a self-test. If the self-test shows that the system is fine, the BIOS will load the
Operating System. This means that the computer’s operating system, is now ready to take user
inputs.

Login and Logout

 To make sure your computer is locked, you have login-IDs and passwords.
 A login and password is like a key to the lock which allows you to use the computer.
 When you login to the computer with your login-ID and password, the computer knows that you are
an authorised person and allows you to work on the applications in the computer. Once you finish
working, you must log out or sign out so that no one else can see your work.

Shutting Down a Computer

 When you click Shut down, the Operating System will close all the applications and turn off the
computer.

Using the Keyboard

 A keyboard is an input device used to type text, numbers and commands into the computer.
✓ Function Keys - Keys labeled from F1 to F12 are function keys. You use them to perform specific
functions. Their functions differ from program to program. The function of the F1 key in most
programs is to get help on that program. Some keyboards may have fewer function keys.
✓ Control keys: Keys, such as Control (CTRL), SHIFT, SPACEBAR, ALT, CAPS LOCK and TAB, are
special control keys that perform special functions depending on when and where they are used.
✓ Enter key: The label on this key can be either ENTER or RETURN, depending on the brand of
✓ computer. You use this key to move the cursor to the beginning of a new line. In some programs, it
is used to send commands and to confirm a task on a computer.
✓ Punctuation keys: Punctuation keys include keys for punctuation marks, such as colon (:),
semicolon (;), question mark (?), single quotation marks (‘ ’), and double quotation marks (“ ”).
✓ Navigation keys: Keys, such as the arrow keys, HOME, END, PAGE UP, and PAGE DOWN are
navigation keys. These are used to move up and down, right and left in a document. The HOME and
END keys move the cursor to the left/right end of a line of text, respectively. The PAGE UP and
PAGE DOWN keys are used to move one page up and one page down, respectively.
✓ Command keys: Keys, such as INSERT (INS), DELETE (DEL), and BACKSPACE are command keys.
When the INSERT key is turned ON, it helps you overwrite characters to the right of the cursor. The
DELETE key and the BACKSPACE key are used to remove typed text, characters and other objects
on the right and left side of the cursor, respectively.
✓ Windows key: Pressing this key opens the Start menu.

Using a Mouse
A mouse is a small device that you can use to move, select and open items on your computer screen.
Different application will behave differently to the mouse actions.
1. Roll Over or Hover
Some actions can be done by simply rolling over or hovering over an item.
2. Point and Click
As you move the mouse on your desk, a pointer moves correspondingly on your screen. The mouse
allows you to select an item on the screen.
3. Drag and Drop
To move an item, you need to click it, and then holding the mouse button down, move the item to a new
location. After you move the item to the new location, you release the mouse button. This is called drag
and drop.
4. Double-click
Double-clicking means to quickly click the left mouse button twice. When we doubleclick on a file, it
will open the file.

Operating System-
An operating system is a software that serves as an interface between the user and computer.
Some of the functions of Operating system are:
 It manages all the devices of a computer and keeps track of status of the device, whether it is busy
or not.
 It also checks whether the device is functioning properly or not.
 It also controls software resources of the computer.
 It manages the computer memory and keeps track of which memory space is in use by which
program and which space is free.
 It manages structure of the files and directories on a computer system.
 It keeps track of the amount of disk space used by a specific file.
 It allows you to create, copy, move and delete files.

Taskbar
Taskbar is a long horizontal bar present at the bottom of the screen. To left of the Taskbar is Start
button and to the right appears Date/Time. You can also see icons of active applications and some
shortcuts on the Taskbar

Session 2: Performing Basic File Operations

Files and Folders

 All information stored in a computer is kept in files.
 Different types of files store different types of information.
 Each file is given a file name and has a file name extension that identifies the file type.
 The file name and file name extension are separated by a period or a ‘dot’
 An image file usually has an extension .jpg while a sound file usually has .mp3.
 A folder is a location where a group of files can be stored.
 Files can be separately placed into groups, called folders/directories.
 Each directory/folder can contain related files and/or sub-folders.
 A sub-folder may contain one or more files and sub-folders within.

Creating a Folder
 Folder is a location where a group of files can be stored.
 To open file explorer , click Files option.
 To create a folder:
(a) Choose a location where the folder has to be created for example ‘Desktop’.
(b) Right-click and then choose the ‘New Folder’.
(c) Type the name of the folder as ‘Demo’.

Basic Shortcuts
CTRL+z — undo CTRL+c — copy
CTRL+y — redo CTRL+v — paste
CTRL+a — select all CTRL+p — print
CTRL+x — cut CTRL+s — save.

Session 3: Computer Care and Maintenance

Importance of Care and Maintenance of Computers
 A computer is a delicate machine with a lot of moving electronic parts. We need to protect it from
dust and damage. If we are careless, it will not work efficiently.
 Computers and mobiles are very expensive. When we take good care of them on a regular basis,
we can use them for a longer time. This will help us save money as we do not need to buy new
devices too often.
Basic Tips for Taking Care of Devices
Here are some simple ways that you can follow to take care of your computer.

Keeping a Device Clean

Cleaning a device, such as a computer or mobile means to keep the screen, keyboard and mouse
clean.
(i) Keyboard: First we should not eat anything over a keyboard. You can clean a keyboard with a soft
brush to remove crumbs and dust particles.
(ii) Screen: You can wipe the screen with a soft cloth to remove any finger marks.
(iii) Be careful with food and drinks: Avoid eating and drinking near a computer.
(iv) Handle devices carefully: Handle and move your laptop carefully and avoid dropping or banging
it against a hard surface. Using a cover for your mobile and padded case for moving your laptop
protects the device from damage.
(v) Keep the computer cool: If a computer, laptop or mobile device gets overheated, the internal
parts can be damaged. The CPU has an internal fan to keep it cool. We should make sure the fan is
functioning. Avoid leaving a device in the sun or in a closed car.
(vi) Do not overcharge your battery: Sometimes we keep a device plugged in for charging even after
it is fully charged. If we leave the device plugged in for a long time, it can overheat the battery. This
reduces the battery life. Always unplug the device once it is charged 100%.
(vii) Always plug in devices carefully: Any device being connected to a laptop or computer such
as a USB drive or headphones, should be done gently. It should not be forced into the port.
(viii) Do not run too many programs at a time: When too many programs are running at the same
time, the computer can become slow and even crash.

Prepare a Maintenance Schedule

We need to prepare a plan or a schedule for maintenance to keep the computer running in perfect
condition for a long time. This can include:
(a) Daily Maintenance
i. Clean up your e-mail inbox
 ii. Download e-mail attachments and save in proper folders
(b) Weekly Maintenance
i. Clean your keyboard
ii. Clean your monitor
iii. Dust CPU and printer
iv. Backup your data to an external drive
(c) Monthly Maintenance
i. Transfer photographs to computer and delete from drive
ii. Organise photos into folders or albums
iii. Clean up ‘Download’ folder
iv. Uninstall unused programs and apps
v. Run disk-cleaner software
vi. Run full system virus scan
(d) Yearly/Annual Maintenance
(a) Clean up contacts list on social media Accounts
(b) Clean up e-mail contact list
(c) Update your operating system
(d) Check for expiry of anti-virus software and renew

Backup Your Data

Backing up data means to save the information present on your computer on another device, such as
CD/DVD or hard disk. Data can recovered from here in case the computer stops working completely. It
is important for companies, to keep their information safe — so that their business can continue to
function smoothly and their customers do not face problems.

Scanning and Cleaning Viruses

A computer virus is a software program that attaches itself to other programs and alters their behavior.
A virus may or may not be destructive. Some viruses erase data or corrupt programs on the computer.
VIRUS is an acronym for Vital Information Resource Under Seize. Sometimes computer viruses can
enter a computer from such attacks we can install anti-virus software. This will prevent any viruses from
entering and will also clean any viruses that may enter our system before they affect the data.
Some of the common signs of a virus attack are:
Computer runs very slow
There is change in the file size
Computer often stops responding
There is an increase in number of files (unusual)
Unusual error message appears on the screen
Computer restarts on its own

To prevent computer from being infected with virus, we should install anti-virus software, run it
periodically and keep it updated so that it can scan and remove new viruses. Antivirus software is a
program designed to detect and remove malicious programs from the computer. Some examples of
antivirus software are McAfee Virus Scan, Norton AntiVirus, Microsoft Security essentials, and Quick
Heal.

Increasing Computer Performance

If we have been using a computer for a long time we have a lot of unnecessary files and data, such as
temporary files and images. When they use too much hard-disk space, the performance of the
computer goes down. It is important that we keep cleaning by removing any extra files. We can use
some disk cleaner software, which help us clean up the unnecessary files.

Removing Temporary files-

Temporary files are created when you are running computer programs or while browsing on the
Internet. These files take up a large amount of disk space and so it should be removed to clear space.

Removing files of Temporary Folder-

Press Windows button + R on the keyboard. The Run dialog box appears. Type %temp% and the temp
folder opens up. Select all the files and delete.
Removing SPAM from your Computer
Sometimes we get mails from companies who are advertising a product or trying to attract you to their
website. Such mails are called SPAM. We should never respond to SPAM and delete it on a regular
basis. It is possible to set filters in the settings to prevent SPAM from entering our mail box.

Firewall
A computer firewall could be a programmable device or software or a network security system that
monitors and controls incoming and outgoing network traffic based on user-defined security rules.
Firewalls enhance the security of computers connected to a network, such as LAN or the Internet. The
main purpose of a firewall is to reduce or eliminate the occurrence of unwanted network
communications while allowing normal traffic.

Session 4: Computer Security and Privacy

We store a lot of information on our computers and electronic devices. If any of this information gets
lost or leaked and falls into the wrong hands, it can cause a lot of harm to the people. Hence, it is
essential to keep computers secure and our data safe.

Computer Security Deals with Protecting Computers

Computer security and privacy is about measures we can take to restrict access to personal data stored
in a computer.

Reasons for Security Break

Security break is leakage of information stored in a computer. Personal information can be lost or
leaked in two ways:
1. We are not careful in giving out personal information over the Internet. For example, we share our
account details and password on unsecure sites.
2. A person gets unauthorised access to our computer. This can happen in the office if we leave are
computer without logging out.

Threats to Computer
Threats are the ways in which personal information can be leaked from a computer without our
knowing.
(a) Theft: Theft means stealing of information or hardware. These maybe of three types:
• Physical: Where a person may steal your desktop computer or laptop.
• Identity: Where a hacker steals your personal information and assumes your identity. Using this
false identity, the hacker can gain access to your account information or perform illegal activity.
• Software Piracy: This is stealing of software and includes using or distributing unlicensed and
unauthorised copies of a computer program or software.

(b) Virus: Viruses are computer programs that can damage the data and software programs or steal
the information stored on a computer. Major types of viruses are Worms and Trojan Horse.
• Worms: These are viruses that replicate themselves and spread to all files once they attack a
computer. This makes it very difficult to remove them.
• Trojan Horse: A Trojan Horse disguises itself i.e., it appears to be a useful software program but once
it reaches a computer it starts behaving like a virus and destroying data.
• Online Predator: Online predators are people who trap you into inappropriate relationships. They
may be older people posing to be your age, bullying you into doing illegal activities online and
sometimes face to face.
• Internet Scams: Sometimes you may receive very attractive offers saying you have won a huge
money in a lottery and that you can claim the prize by depositing a certain amount of money. When you
deposit the money using credit card or online banking, you not only lose the deposit money but your
card / account information may be misused later.

Protecting your Data

To protect our data from theft and viruses we can take the following measures:
(a) Use passwords to login to your computer:
Use passwords that are difficult to guess. Passwords are difficult to hack if they are a mix of small and
capital letters, numbers and special characters.
(b) Install Anti-virus and Firewall:
Anti-viruses and Firewall monitor the data coming in and out of a computer and prevent and viruses
from entering. Anti-viruses can also detect and clean viruses that may have entered a computer.
(c) Encrypt Data:
This is usually done by banks and companies in which important customer information is stored. They
can encrypt their entire hard disk using encrypting feature in Windows (Bitlocker). This would force
users to use a decryption password (or key) before starting the computer thus preventing unauthorised
usage.
(d) Secure sites:
Give details of your credit card or bank account only on secure sites. See in the address bar of the
browser. If the site address starts with [Link] a lock symbol, then it is safe to give your credit card
and bank details.

1. Which of the following functions is not performed using a mouse?

(a) Turn on (b) Hover (c) Right click (d) Drag and Drop
2. What is the term used when you press and hold the left mouse key and move the mouse
around?
(a) Highlighting (b) Dragging (c) Selecting (d) Moving
3. Here are the steps that take place when starting a computer. Rearrange the steps in the correct
order.
(a) Desktop appears after login (b) Login screen appears
(c) Power-on Self-Test (POST) starts (d) Operating system starts
(e) Welcome screen appears
Ans. c>>d>>e>>b>>a
4. Which one of the following shortcut keys is used to paste a file?
(a) Ctrl + c (b) Ctrl + p (c) Ctrl + v (d) Ctrl + x
5. Which of the following is a valid file extension for Notepad file?
(a) .jpg (b) .doc (c) .text (d) . txt
6. What keys do you use to copy something?
(a) Ctrl+x (b) Ctrl+c (c) Ctrl+z (d) Ctrl+y
7. What happens if you leave a device plugged in even after it is charged 100%?
(a) It can break. (b) It can stop functioning. (c) It can overheat.
(d) Data can get corrupt.
8. How can an antivirus protect your device?
(a) It can protect it from overheating. (b) It can increase its performance.
(c) It can prevent data from getting corrupt. (d) It can backup data.
9. Which option is not required to keep a device cool?
(a) Keep the device unplugged when in use. (b) Do not cover a laptop with a blanket.
(c) Make sure the computer's CPU fan is working. (d) Avoid leaving the device in the sun.
10. Which of the following is essential for maintaining a keyboard?
(a) Turn the keyboard upside down and shake it to remove foreign material.
(b) Blow dust and other particles with help of a blower.
(c) Use a very dilute combination of soap and water applied with a non-abrasive cloth to remove stains
from the keycaps.
(d) All of the above.
11. What should you do to ensure secure online transactions?
(a) Lock your computer (b) Give credit card or bank details only on safe websites
(c) Use anti-virus (d) Do not use pirated software
12. Which of the following trap small children into inappropriate relations?
(a) Online predators (b) Worms (c) Trojan Horse (d) Anti-Virus
13. What should a strong password consist of?
(a) Only letters (b) Numbers and special characters
c) Name of a person (d) Letters, numbers and special characters

1. What is the function of the ENTER key?

Ans. The label on this key can be either ENTER or RETURN, depending on the brand of computer. The
ENTER or the RETURN key is used to move the cursor to the beginning of a new line. In some programs,
it is used to confirm the work which is being done.

2. How will you prevent others from using your computer?

Ans. To prevent computers from being used by unauthorized persons it must be locked when the users
are not working on it. This will ensure that no unauthorised person can see or make changes to our
information without taking our permission. To make sure the computer is locked, the login-IDs and
passwords must be created. A login ID and password is like a key to the lock which allows the user to
use the computer only if the entered login ID and password match with the computer database. Once
finished the work, the user must log out or sign out so that no one else can see the work.

3. How is a computer file system similar to our physical file system in a school?
Ans. In any school, each teacher has a separate cabinet where they keep the files of different students
or classes on separate shelves. Similarly, information on a computer is stored in electronic files, which
can be put into separate folders. It is easier to manage the electronic files as they can be simply
copied, moved, renamed or even deleted.

4. What are the steps you will perform to save a text file?
Ans. The steps to save a text file are:
1) Click on the Save button.
2) The Save As dialog box appears.
3) Browse to the Desktop folder, where you want to save a file.
4) Type the name of the file. 5) Click on Save.

5. How can you increase the performance of a computer?

Ans. The ways to increase the performance of a computer are:
1) Uninstall unnece ssary software
2) Limit the programs at startup
3) Add more RAM to your PC
4) Check for spyware and viruses
5) Use Disk Cleanup and defragmentation
6) Consider a startup SSD

7. Explain how Trojan Horse virus works.

Ans. A Trojan horse, or Trojan, is a type of malicious code or software that looks legitimate but can take
control of your computer. It is designed to harm your computer without knowing you. It can steal the
data, manage or change the data by itself. This will harm your computer or network.