Course Description

Course Overview

This course provides foundational computer skills, covering the basics of computer hardware, software, operating systems, MS Office applications, and internet usage. Ideal for beginners, the course is geared toward those who need computer skills for personal or professional use.

Course Duration

2 to 3 months (depending on class schedule and depth of coverage)

Eligibility

• Basic literacy skills
• No prior computer knowledge required

Course Objectives

• Understand the fundamentals of computer hardware and software
• Gain proficiency in MS Office applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• Learn essential internet skills, including browsing, email, and online safety
• Develop confidence in using computers for various tasks

Course Syllabus

1. Introduction to Computers

• Definition and importance of computers
• Basic computer terminology and concepts
• Overview of computer hardware (CPU, RAM, storage, peripherals)
• Introduction to software: system software vs. application software
• Understanding operating systems (Windows, macOS, Linux)

2. Basic Computer Operations

• Turning on and off a computer
• Navigating the desktop and using icons
• Understanding file management: creating, saving, moving, and deleting files
• Working with folders and directories
• Introduction to control panel and system settings

3. Introduction to MS Office

• Overview of Microsoft Office suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook)
• Understanding the interface and tools common across MS Office applications

4. Microsoft Word

• Creating, opening, and saving documents
• Formatting text (font, size, color, styles)
• Paragraph alignment, line spacing, and indentations
• Using bullet points, numbering, and lists
• Inserting tables, images, and charts
• Page layout settings (margins, orientation, size)
• Basic editing tools: find, replace, and spell check
• Printing documents

5. Microsoft Excel

• Introduction to spreadsheets and their uses
• Creating, opening, and saving Excel files
• Entering data in cells and basic formatting (font, color, alignment)
• Basic formulas and functions (SUM, AVERAGE, COUNT)
• Using rows, columns, and cells effectively
• Creating simple charts and graphs
• Sorting and filtering data
• Basic data analysis and formatting tools

6. Microsoft PowerPoint

• Creating, opening, and saving presentations
• Choosing templates and slide layouts
• Adding and formatting text on slides
• Inserting images, videos, and animations
• Using transitions and slide effects
• Presenting a slideshow

7. Introduction to the Internet

• Understanding the basics of the internet and the World Wide Web
• Browsers (Chrome, Firefox, Edge) and their features
• Performing searches using search engines (Google, Bing)
• Understanding web addresses and navigating websites

8. Email Basics

• Creating an email account
• Composing, sending, and replying to emails
• Attaching files and images to emails
• Organizing emails using folders
• Email etiquette and managing spam

9. Online Safety and Digital Etiquette

• Basic online safety practices (password security, identifying phishing emails)
• Privacy settings on social media and websites
• Avoiding malware and understanding antivirus software
• Responsible online behavior and digital etiquette

10. Practical Sessions and Assignments

• Hands-on practice with each MS Office application
• Internet browsing exercises and email practice
• Basic project assignments to test knowledge and skills

Assessment and Certification

• Quizzes and practical assignments for each module
• Final assessment covering theoretical and practical knowledge
• Certificate of completion upon successful assessment

Career Opportunities

• Administrative assistant roles requiring basic computer skills
• Office assistant or data entry operator
• Foundation for further courses in computer applications