Course Content
1. Hardware and Software
This section will deal with computers (and other peripherals) and their components. It is imperative that we understand what constitutes a computer in order to understand how to work with them. Understanding the parts that make up a computer will lead to an understanding of how a computer works as a whole. In this section, we will "demystify" the inner workings of a computer, which we usually don't fully understand. Once you have deconstructed the inside of the computer in its entirety, you will feel more confident to continue your quest for digital skills because you will understand the so-called "tangible" parts of the machine and will be able to better locate the different operations on one's computer or other devices. This section will not deal with the inner workings of all the different electronic devices that exist (smartphones, tablets, games consoles etc.) as there are too many of them. However, they all have very similar components and functions to a computer. In this section, we will introduce the basics of hardware and software as well as the basics of connectivity.
2. The basics of problem-solving
This part deals with the basic tasks to be done with a computer to avoid issues or to solve basic problems we can encounter when using a computer: searching for space (disk) on the computer, making sure the computer's software is updated… These topics combined will enable you to use the computer independently and with confidence.
3. Business Tool: Microsoft Office
How can we talk about the basics of ICT without mentioning the Microsoft Office Suite! Microsoft Office is a set of office applications tools. It can be used on a computer, tablet or mobile. Among these tools, it offers several possibilities, each with its own use and particularities: Word, Excel, PowerPoint, One Note or Outlook. This software allows you to work faster and more efficiently on your business tasks and to improve your own documents. In the field of “office” tools, Microsoft Office is the must-have suite for most companies or home users, even if we have to pay for it. However, there are other free alternatives such as Open Office (including LibreOffice) which can also be a solution for beginners. But, later on, using this free option may create compatibility problems between certain document formats. In addition, the functions are limited compared to Microsoft Office. The Google collaborative tool (GoogleDoc, GoogleSheet…) is also one of those free alternatives that can be a good compromise between the two. By the way, if you want to know more about this last tool, it will be developed in another module!
Final Quiz
References
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5.1
2.2 Updates
Keeping your computer or software up to date will ensure that it works properly and that you stay as safe as possible when using your computer (especially when accessing the Internet).
When using Windows, it usually puts a lot of emphasis on updates and regularly reminds you to install them when it does not do so automatically.
If you want to check for an update yourself, you can do so by accessing the magnifying glass/search bar in the taskbar at the bottom of the desktop screen. It is usually located right next to the Windows logo. This will open the search bar where you can type in and search for all your programs on your computer. You can also directly access the updates menu through the Windows settings like you did in the previous activity.
When using Apple, make sure to keep updated your macOS system as well. Each update brings new features, fixes any problems, and allows you to get the most out of your computer and all associated applications.
Normally, your Mac informs you via a pop-up notification when a new update is available. However, you can check for an update yourself at any time.
It is important to note that your computer’s operating system should always be updated, otherwise you may encounter errors when trying to install or run certain programs.
Activity: Updates verification (5 min)
To verify if your computer needs to be updated on Windows, you can:
- 1. Go to Windows settings, by clicking on the windows logo at the bottom left and then by clicking on the gear icon. →
- 2. Click on “Update & Security”
3. What opens is the settings windows for all updates to your computer. It will tell you if your PC needs an update has been installed successfully or unsuccessfully and when.
4. Check for updates here and install them if they are available
To verify if your computer needs to be updated on macOs, you can:
1. From the Apple menu in the upper left corner of your screen, choose “System Preferences”.
2. In the “System Preferences” window, click on “Software Update”.
3. If an update is available, it will appear, and you will simply have to click on “Update Now” (for latest updates for the currently installed version) or “Upgrade Now” (for a major new version with a new name, such as macOS Monterey).
When your computer is updating, make sure that it is well connected (for a laptop) to avoid this one being interrupted because of a stop of the computer. Indeed, an update that could not be downloaded until the end can create problems with the use of the computer thereafter or even prevent its operation completely. You should not force a computer to restart but use the Shutdown/Restart function provided for this purpose.