ntroduction to Computers

A computer is an electronic device that you can use to store and process information. Computers
can be used to help you perform various tasks, such as:
Sending email messages
Delivering presentations
Tracking data
Writing text
Organizing files
In this lesson, you will learn about the importance of computers in todays world, the main parts
of a computer, and the basics of using a computer. After completing this lesson, you should be
able to:

Describe the importance of computers in today's world.

Identify the main parts of a computer.
Use a mouse to perform basic tasks.
Identify different types of computers.

Roles of Computers
Computers impact your life every day. Consider a trip to the store and how many different
computers are involved. Computers control the airbag sensor inside your car, manage the traffic
lights, regulate the temperature in the store's freezers, and calculate the cost of your groceries.
Lets review more ways computers play a regular role in your life.

Click the image to the right to start the simulation. This simulation should take 3-5 minutes to
complete.
Computers play an important role in schools; everything from offering interactive
courses of study to aiding with research to keep student records. Some schools are
entirely online with courses available to anyone in the world.

Let's talk about hardware. Hardware encompasses all the physical parts and
components of a computer. They allow you to input commands to your computer,
process that information, and receive output, just like blowing into a tuba (input)
and produces music from the other end (output).
Input devices include your keyboard and mouse. You use them to give commands to
your computer to perform tasks.
Once you issue commands with input hardware, the CPU processes those
commands. The CPU hardware acts like the brain of your computer and generates
the desired output.
Inside your computer's core is a circuit board called the motherboard. The
motherboard hardware connects all of your input to the processing state and
determines how data will flow through your computer to an output device.
Output hardware, such as speakers, your monitor or a printer, delivers the results of
the entire process.
Other hardware can be plugged into your computer to provide certain features. For
example, you can use hardware to connect to other computers. You can also add
hardware to your motherboard, such as video cards to enhance existing software.

Computers don't function with hardware alone. They also require software to
perform needed tasks.
Your computer's most crucial software is its operating system, which instructs and
manages all of the hardware. Windows 8 is an example of the latest operating
system for many popular computers, tablets and even smartphones.
An operating system provides an interface for entering commands via an input
device such as a keyboard. The newest operating systems use extensive graphics,
or a graphic user interface (GUI), which includes many icons to simplify interaction
and productivity.
To maintain the optimum functionality of your operating system, you will want to
update when prompted to make sure it is running optimally and is compatible with
the latest hardware.
With the Windows 8 operating system running on all devices, you get the most
enjoyment and functionality from your desktop, laptop, tablet or phone.

Overview of programs and data

A program is a set of instructions that a computer uses to perform tasks.
Programs help you do a variety of things on the computer, such as write a letter, create a
spreadsheet, or develop a presentation. You also use programs for entertainment such as playing
games, watching movies, and communicating with other people.
The information that is either input, calculated, displayed, or used by programs is data. Data can
be text, numbers, images, or other media like audio and video information.

Introduction to Networks.
In a business, many employees need to print or share documents to complete their assigned tasks.
Buying a printer and storage drive for every employee, however, would be very expensive, so
businesses typically share these resources on a network. A network consists of two or more
computers that are linked so that they can share resources, exchange files, or communicate
electronically. By using networks, people can transfer files between computers, print documents
on shared printers, and more.
Most networks, if not all, have the following components:
A server
A workstation

Communication Channel

The size of the workplace matters because it will indicate whether you use a Local Area Network
(LAN) or a Wide Area Network (WAN).
LAN
WAN
A Server
The main computer or drive that provides the services to all the other computers. The server is in
charge of allowing devices or computers to access certain items.
Communication Channel
The path or link that actually connects computers or devices to transfer the information.

LAN
Local area network. A small network that is confined to a small and limited area that is usually
the size of a home or a small group of offices.
WAN
Wide area network. A very large network that can be connected throughout the whole world; via
long wires, optical cables, or satellites. A great example of a WAN is the Internet.

Using the Internet

The Internet is a worldwide collection of public networks that are linked to one another for the
purpose of exchanging information. The Internet started as a network to facilitate communication
between government and educational institutions. Other networks were connected to this
network, and it eventually became a vast medium for exchanging information and ideas.
Today, the Internet connects many commercial, government, and educational networks, and also
individual computers.
The Internet offers a range of services to users. The World Wide Web (commonly referred to as
the web) is one service that the Internet provides. The web consists of formatted documents
that are interlinked and stored on servers around the world.
You can use the Internet and its services to send messages to other Internet users, search and
apply for jobs, watch movies, and buy and sell products.
Many organizations use a special type of network to communicate and share information only
within the organization, called an intranet. An intranet is similar to the web, but it is accessible
only to authorized users of the organization. An intranet is much smaller than the Internet and
can provide services such as document distribution, software distribution, access to databases,
and training.

Computer performance and features

Many different brands and models of PCs are available today. They offer different features and
vary in price. When you decide to buy a computer, you will want to make a decision based on
what kinds of features you need.
After completing this module, you will be able to:

Explain the role of memory.

Explain the basics of computer performance.
Compare the features of common computing devices.
Describe the types of productivity programs and their uses.
Describe the types of communications programs and their uses.
Describe the uses of educational and entertainment programs.

The role of memory

When a computer performs a task, it stores data in its memory. Computer data is represented by
0s and 1s. Each 0 or 1 is a bit.
Click the image to the right to start the simulation. This simulation should take 4-6 minutes to
complete.
Computers have powerful memories that are expressed in different terms. A bit, for
example, is the smallets unit of information a computer calculates. As the memory
capabilitiy increases, the terms change to demonstrate bigger memory capacity
Combining 8 bits in a sequence creates a byte. Because a bit is so small, byte
represents the basic measuring unit of a computer's storage capacity
A kilobyte is the next step up, representing 1,024 bytes. A few kilobytes can hold a
short email message or a simple text file.
Next is the megabyte. A megabyte equals 1,024 kilobytes, or about the amount of
information in a school textbook or a long novel
It gets bigger still with a gigabyte, which is equivalent to 1,024 megabytes. This is
nearly a billion bytes and denotes massive storage capability. For example, a video
or film could use a gigabyte or more
Finally, we reach the mighty terabyte (1,024 gigabytes) representing a trillion bytes!
A terabyte is so large that it can hold entire volumes of books. The terabyte is
mostly used when an organization or individual needs to store a huge amount of
data
Reverse the dog's growth by ordering the storage unit sizes from biggest to
smallest.

Basics of computer performance

There are a number of factors that affect your computer's performance

The CPU is the brain of a computer and the speed of the CPU affects the overall
performance of the computer.
A faster CPU allows a computer to run multiple programs or applications at the
same time.
Hard disks are measured in both storage size and in the speed it can transfer and
load files. Movies and other large files can take up a lot of room on a hard drive and
require timely file access.
With a fast hard disk that has a large amount of storage capacity your computer
won't have any trouble launching large programs or playing video files.
The computer uses the RAM to store information that is being created and used by
open programs. If you don't have enough RAM, your computer won't be able to
smoothly run large programs like games, spreadsheets or presentations.
When the amount of RAM is large enough to hold all of the information in use, the
result is faster computer performance.

Productivity programs
Software programs exist for just about every task or project you do that requires the creation,
organization, or storage of information in the form of text and images.
Word-processing programs
You use word processing programs to create and edit text documents. They come with built-in
features that you can use to check spelling and format your text any way you choose. Some are
very specialized, such as software that aids with screen writing. Others assist in combining text
and graphics to produce professional-looking documents such as brochures or magazines
Note taking programs offer an easy way to write, collect, and organize notes. You
can use programs like Microsoft OneNote to organize recordings and other data. You
can then store that information for quick reference in one convenient location.
With a presentation program, you can create slide shows and business proposals
that are professional-looking and easily edited or modified. You can even add audio
and visual elements to enhance your presentations.
You use a spreadsheet program to manage financial data and create charts and
graphs that represents relationships among that data. You can organize budgets,
compute complex calculations easily, and manage data tables. Spreadsheets use
cells to store data.

You use a database to organize and store data in a format that is searchable and
easily managed. You can create reports that can track data such as sales, customer
information, and inventory
Graphic-editing programs help you create pictures and drawings. You can edit what
you draw or enhance photographs. These programs often offer digital art tools such
as custom color options and various built-in pencils, paintbrushes, and pen types

Minimum requirements for software

Before you buy and install a software application, be sure that your computer meets any stated
minimum requirements for that application. For example, an application may require a minimum
amount of RAM, free space on a hard drive, or processor speed.
The Internet allows us to quickly and easily communicate with people all around the
world

Computers can give you access to educational and entertainment programs that
may not be available in your community.
You may want to learn a new language or work toward a college degree but you
dont have a school that offers the courses you want in your home town. With your
computer you can find and download educational software that focuses on the
lessons you want to study. Often these programs are designed to teach the course
just like a school does, and offer audio/visual elements to make the learning
experience more immersive or interactive. You can discover educational software
that accommodates any age group or subject with a simple web search.
Entertainment options are nearly endless on your computer. Dont have a movie
theater or arcade in your town? You can find the latest games and movies from your
computer while sitting at home and download them to watch anytime. You can do
the same with music and video games. With a PC or laptop, you can also watch or
listen to your music or movies on a CD, DVD or Blu-ray disk, depending on what
your computer is compatible with.

Computer operating systems

An operating system performs four primary functions. It manages and controls the hardware
connected to a computer. It helps other programs running on a computer to use the hardware. It
helps you organize and manage files and folders on the computer. And it provides a user interface
so that you can interact with the hardware, the operating system itself, and other programs.
After completing this module, you will be able to:
Explain the common functions of an operating system.

 Identify the components of the Windows 8 interface.

Explain the options that are available on the Windows 8 Start screen.
Functions of an operating system
An operating system controls how programs work with each other and how they interact with the
computer hardware. It also creates the file system that determines how your data is stored within
a storage device.
Your computer comes with an operating system that allows you to interact with your
programs and files by giving commands to complete tasks.
This is done through the user interface of the operating system. Today, operating
systems are easier than ever to navigate because of simplified tiles, icons, and
graphics that access programs and tasks with the click of a mouse or tap of a finger

Operating systems also provide utilities to add WiFi

connections, manage sp Operating systems also provide utilities to add
WiFi connections, manage space on a hard drive, and automatically back up files,
music and pictures.
Programs communicate with an operating system, which in turn works with your
computer's CPU or other hardware to quickly complete tasks., and automatically
back up files, music and pictures
Programs communicate with an operating system, which in turn works with your
computer's CPU or other hardware to quickly complete tasks
Your operating system also allows you to secure your private data by setting up user
authentication controls. This usually involves creating a username and password
that limits access to only the people you authorize to use your computer.
Help Debra find some free time by organizing and prioritizing her tasks. Click each
task, from most important (largest quare) to least important (smallest square) in
order to complete them

Th The Windows 8 operating system makes interfacing with your computer easier
than ever. Examples in this course show the interface of Windows 8.1. If you are
using another version of Windows 8 the interface will appear similar.
The Start screen is filled with Live Tiles that display information and launch apps
installed on your computer. For example, you can find movies to download by
clicking the Video tile to open the XBox Video app.
You can customize these tiles according to your own preferences by making them
smaller for apps you rarely launch and larger for those that you do the most.

By placing your mouse at the upper or lower right corner of the screen you can
access the taskbar. This will give you access to Search, Share, Start, Devices and
Settings options.
From the Start screen, you Open the desktop by clicking the Desktop tile. On the
desktop, you open the Start screen by clicking the Start button in the lower left
corner.

Use your mouse to locate the following elements of your

Windows 8 interface shown above:
1. You want to listen to a song in your collection. Click the appropriate Live Tile.

Windows 8 Start screen

The Start screen is the center of all activity on a Windows 8 computer. Users can quickly and
easily launch any app or program from the Start screen or move to the Windows desktop. Live
tiles on your Start screen keep you up to date with your friends, news, sports, weather, email and
more.
You can go to the Windows desktop by clicking on the desktop tile which has the
same image as your desktop background.
Whether you are in an app or running a program from the desktop you can always
return to the Start screen with a single touch or click.
1. Press the Windows logo key on your keyboard.
2. Tap or click the Start button in the lower-left corner of the screen.
3. Open the charms by touching or moving your mouse to the upper or lower right
corners of the screen and tap or click Start.
From the Start screen you can view all of the apps and programs on your computer
by clicking the down arrow in the lower left corner or by swiping up with your finger.
You can open any app or program from this screen by tapping or clicking on its icon.
You can choose to pin or unpin any tile to the Start screen. Just press and hold or
right click the icon and select to pin or unpin it to Start.
On the Start screen you can move and resize each tile and if it is a live tile you can
turn on or turn off updates.
You can personalize your Start screen by adding a profile photo and changing the
Start screen background color and accent color.
To search from the Start screen just start typing. Bing Smart Search will give you
results from your PC, apps and programs and from the Internet. You can then launch
any app or program or open any file directly from the search results.

Add new apps to your computer from the Windows Store. Many apps are free and
you can sort by price or category to find just the app your looking for.

People use computers all around the world. No matter if you are in an urban
environment, a rural location or somewhere completely different.
In the city, you may find yourself texting a friend to meet you for lunch at a fine
restaraunt and then make reservations with your smart phone.
In the country, you might use your tablet to research water tables to find the best
location to dig a well.
Even in the middle of the ocean you may use your computer to track your location
through GPS
Computers can assist you at your job... at school... Or just staying in touch with
friends.

Career opportunities
Using computers is no longer restricted to any specific field of work. They are extensively used
everywhere, from households to large businesses. This widespread use of computers has created
many career opportunities. Depending on your field of interest and degree of knowledge about
computers, you can select a job that matches your skills.
After completing this lesson, you should be able to:
Describe how computers have become a central part of everyday rural and urban life.
Identify the career opportunities available for a computer-literate person.
Overview of career opportunities
Remember that computers play a major role daily life in many industries, schools, government
offices, and shops. Computer literacy is a valuable skill whether you work in education, farming,
business, health care, scientific research, government affairs, arts, entertainment, publishing and
many other industries.
Information worker
An information worker can include a data entry operator, a warehouse manager, graphic
designers, a travel agent, a human resource manager, or an entrepreneur.
Warehouse manager

A warehouse manager keeps an account of the warehouse stocks, manages receipts, storage, and
training employees. It is vital that a warehouse manager uses a computer to keep track of their
company. The use of computers, word processors, and data processing systems has made the task
easier.
Data entry operator
A data entry operator can use the computer to create documents, enter data such as names,
addresses, statistical information, business information, account numbers, or other data, handle
word processors, and maintain records. These records can be analyzed by the computer to
generate reports. The words data entry is broad and could be used for a position that types
information into a computer program such as Microsofts excel.
Travel agents
Travel agents book plane tickets, hotels, and restaurants for their clients. They also collect
payments for transportation and accommodations and provide information for travelling clients.
The Internet gives travel agents access to information on prices and travel opportunities around
the world.
Graphic designers
Graphic designers create designs and art that are visually-appealing to target audiences. Graphic
designers work with many different computer generated-images. Most graphical designers work
with computers to complete their task. They can create posters, billboards, business logos,
magazine ads, album covers, websites, and more.
Information technology professionals
Information Technology professionals, known as I.T. professional are specialist that apply their
technical expertise to the implementation, monitoring, or maintenance of IT systems. IT
professionals can specifically work in one area such as computer networking, database
administration, system administration, security and information assurance, IT audit, database
administration, web administration and more.
Information technology careers vary depending on your education level. You can get a
certification, teach yourself, and get a degree in information and technology.
I.T. jobs are based specifically on the computer. Examples of IT professionals include network
administrators, and database administrators.
Network administrators
Network administrators are responsible for managing a local area network (LAN) or a wide area
network (WAN) for an organization. Network administrators can organize, install, and support an
organizations computer system by maintaining network security, installing new hardware and
applications, monitoring software upgrades, enforcing licensing agreements, developing a
storage management program, and insure routine backups. Network administrators make sure
that the network is a reliable, secure, and efficient..
Database administrators

A database is an organized collection of information on a computer. Database administrators are

in charge of storing, organizing, and managing data. Database administrators make sure the
database is operating efficiently, maintaining a secure successful database, fine-tuning,
upgrading, and testing modifications if needed.
Bank clerks
Bank clerks use computers to process transactions for their clients. Using computers, they
provide information such as creating a new account, looking up account balance and interest
rates, for their customers.
Entrepreneurs
In todays society, entrepreneurs use blogs and social network sites to promote their business and
products. These networking tools give their businesses a wider reach and help them meet
possible prospects.
Software developers
Software developers create applications, software, and, programs, that businesses and consumers
use every day. They can range from game developers, mobile application developers, to making
software for a company. They write programs, diagnose and fix problems, design, and organize
projects. Every time you open an application on your phone or on your computer, this is the work
of a software developer.

Microsoft learning
Please see the Microsoft Learning Web site for other free learning products including
assessments, e-learning, and e-books. Training is available for home and office users, IT
professionals, and developers.

10.11.2015
The Internet
The Internet is an international computer network that you can use to browse websites and
accomplish many tasks, including:
Find information
Communicate via email

Participate in education

Access entertainment

Conduct business

This lesson will help you identify various uses of the Internet, such as searching for information,
sending letters and cards, playing games, reading the latest news, or even buying and selling
products. This lesson also describes the components required to connect to the Internet and the
different types of Internet connections. In addition, you learn about the term bandwidth and the
bandwidth provided by different types of Internet connections.
Describe the uses of the Internet and cloud services
Imagine a scenario where you want to exchange information between a computer on your
network and a computer on another network. For this exchange, you can use the Internet to
connect both the networks. The Internet is a collection of networks that are connected together to
exchange information. Today, the Internet is being used worldwide.
A new trend on the Internet is cloud services, which allows users to store data or run programs
on a remote machines and access that data on any computer. A cloud service is replicated to
several distribution centers across the globe. This replication allows other machines to resume
activity of a cloud service if the active center experiences an interruption in service or loses
connection.
Uses of the Internet
You can do the following on the Internet:
Perform banking transactions
Communicate with people all around the world
Obtain up-to-date news on world events
Search for information about any topic
Study any course of your choice and even take exams
Access entertainment including music, games, TV, movies, and pictures
Buy and sell products
Identify the requirements for an Internet connection
Connecting to the Internet requires specific hardware and services. You need to have a computer
and a connection device such as a modem. Service is provided by an Internet service provider
(ISP). Lets look at what is required to connect to the Internet

Identify the features of two types of Internet connections

There are two common ways to connect to the Internet: dial-up and dedicated connections. A
dial-up connection is less expensive but can be very slow. Dedicated connections are very fast
but require a certain infrastructure that may not exist in rural areas. Please continue to view video
demonstrations of the two types of Internet connections

Banwidth and Internet connections

Bandwidth is the amount of data that can be transmitted over a
network in a certain amount of time and is measured in bits per
second (bit/s), megabits per second (Mbits/s), or kilobits per second
(Kbits/s). If the bandwidth of a network is 1 Mbit/s, then 1 megabit
of data can be transmitted over that network in 1 second. The actual
rate of transfer of data varies, however, depending on a number of
factors such as the equipment of the ISP, the type of Internet
connection, and the number of people using the same connection at
a single point in time
World Wide Web
In this lesson, you will be able to learn about the benefits of the World Wide Web. You can use
the World Wide Web for many services. This lesson describes the basic features of Internet
Explorer, a browser that you can use to access the World Wide Web. You also learn how to
perform online transactions so that you can buy or sell merchandise.
Web components
The Internet is a series of connected networks. To find information on the Internet you need to
know how and where to access it. Internet Protocol (IP) addresses are used to label websites and
Internet users so that they can be recognized. Web browsers access these IP addresses to open
webpages and networks. Continue to the next simulation which explains how IP addresses work

Have you ever wondered how the Internet works?

Have you ever wondered how the Internet works?
When you connect to the Internet, your Internet Service Provider (ISP) gives you a
unique identifier. It is called the Internet Protocol (IP) address
Every user and website on the Internet has a unique IP address. Select an Icon on
the globe to see example IP addresses

Imagine having to remember all the IP numbers to your favorite sites. It would be pretty hard to
do.
Instead we use a Universal Resource Locator (URL) for websites, more commonly called "web
address".

Web sites are built in Hyper Text Markup Language (HTML). HTML takes content and formats
it so that a browser can read it
Some websites separate the content from the formatting. Extensible Markup Language (XML)
holds the content. Cascading Style Sheets (CSS) formats XML data
When you type a URL into a browser, it requests the website. The request is sent
through many networks until it finds the website.

The requested website might have a lot of data. The data is broken up into many packets.
Each packet then travels back through the network. The packets are then reassembled by the
browser. Now you know the basics of how the Internet works
The basic features of Internet Explorer 11
You can use the Internet for a range of services, such as transferring files between Internet users,
sending messages through electronic mail, and browsing for recent news and information in
websites. You can also use the Internet to search and apply for a job, watch movies, and buy and
sell products.
Search for reliable information on the web
The Internet has a wealth of information, however finding what you are looking for can be hard
without the right tools. Search engines like Microsoft Bing allow users find information quickly.
In this lesson we will learn how to use a search engine so that you can find information quickly
How to perform transactions over the web
Businesses have websites on the Internet that allow you to perform online transactions. These
types of transactions can include buying or selling merchandise, ordering tickets to a location or
event, and performing banking transactions.
Online transactions refer to business transactions made over the Internet, such as buying or
selling merchandise, or managing a bank account
An online transaction usually requires you to provide a username, password, address, credit card,
and bank account details.
Suppose you wanted to buy tickets to the museum online.
First, you'll need to create an account on the museum's website by creating a username and
password.
To purchase tickets you must select a date to attend the museum and the number of tickets to buy,
followed by credit card or other payment information

Once your payment information is authenticated, a confirmation page provides details on

downloading or printing your tickets.
You can also buy airline tickets, order pizza, or perform banking transactions in a similar way
A great deal of personal information is exchanged during an online transaction. Remember to
only do business in a secure manner, and only with credible websites

Using email

Electronic mail or email is similar to traditional postal mail. Instead of a pen and a paper you use
a software program to write your message and a network server takes the place of the postal
employee in delivering a message to the recipient. A message can travel halfway around the
world in seconds, and can have the following content:

Text
Pictures

Data files

Audio

Video clips

And more

In this lesson, you will learn about creating and managing email messages. You will also learn
about email etiquette.
How email works
Electronic mail, commonly known as email, allows you to communicate with friends and family
over the Internet. Email is a great way to communicate and share information quickly. The next
lesson introduces some of the basics of using email
Email lets you send messages through the Internet. Before you can send an email message, you
need your recipient's email address
Email addresses contain two parts separated by the @ symbol; the identifier, and
the domain.

Email has three main sections: the header, subject line, and message body

The Header contains the recipient's email address. You can CC (carbon copy)
additional email addresses so that they receive the message as well
The Subject line provides a summary for the email's content. All emails should have
a subject line.
The Message area is where the content of the email goes. It's important to check for
spelling and grammar in your message.
Now that our email is composed, click Send. New email appears in the recipient's
inbox.
Included with email is the email address of the sender.

Create an email address

To use email you need to register with an email service. This lesson will show you how to create
an email account.

Writing and sending email messages

Creating an email is as easy as 1, 2, 3. By using your email account, you can send messages to
email clients all around the world.
Identify email etiquette
It is always best to use proper etiquette when writing email. How you write depends on whether
you are writing an email for business or for friends and family. This lesson provides tips for
improving your email etiquette

Email etiquette is an important part of online communication. Let's take a look at

some proper use of email courtesy.
Business contacts typically expect formal correspondence while friends and family
can be addressed more casually
Which category does this email belong to: Friends and family or business?
( business)

When addressing a business associate, it is appropriate to greet them respectfully

by name and proper designation (Mr. Ms., etc). Friends and family can be greeted
with a simple Hi
Writing in all capitals conveys emotion. It is best to avoid using all capitals when
writing to a business or professional and should be used in a limited fashion even
among friends and family.
Spelling and grammar are important if you want to make a good impression with a
business associate. Although less crucial with friends and family, it is still vital that
your message is understood

Emails to a business should be brief and to the point. Personal emails have no such
rule but should still stick to the topic.
Emails should be concluded with a signature. Business signatures typically contain
contact information. Friendly emails are not so formal
You can CC (carbon copy) other people onto an email by putting their email address
in the CC field

Manage email messages

As you start to send and receive emails it becomes important to manage your messages and the
folders that hold the email messages. Continue to the next page to launch a simulation that will
walk you through the common steps to manage your email messages.

Other methods to communicate on the Internet

There are many methods to communicate on the Internet. You can communicate online with an
instant messenger program, on forums, by using a social media site, in chat rooms, on blogs, and
in newsgroups.
Many people use an instant messenger program like Microsoft Skype to send and receive instant
messages to anyone with an Internet connection.
In this lesson you will learn how to use a number of different methods to communicate on the
Internet.
Features of online communities
The Internet is full of online communities. An online community is a gathering of people who
share a similar interest. A community shared interest might be a favorite band, a common hobby,

or a local sports team. This lesson will introduce some of the many type of communities the
Internet has to offer.
Social media allows users to connect with friends and family. Users post images or
status updates that others can see. Many social media sites provide email and chat
services.
Web logs, or Blogs, let users write in a public or private setting. Most blogs focus on
the interests of the writer. Blog feeds can be streamed to social media sites or to an
email.
Newsgroups are discussion forums for various topics. Once you subscribe to a
thread in a newsgroup, you will receive posts from that service as an email.
Chat rooms allow you to chat with many users at once. Chat rooms are similar to
instant messaging but with more participants. You can also have private
conversations in chat rooms.

Instant messaging and web-cam communication

Instant messaging, or IM, lets you communicate with friends and family instantly. IM software
also lets you share files and images with contacts. Some IM software like Microsoft Skype lets
you talk and see your contacts when a microphone and camera are used. This lesson will
introduce how to use Microsoft Skype.
How to create webpages
People and businesses have websites to provide information or services. Using software such as
Expression Web 4 it is easy to set up a webpage and publish it to the Internet. This lesson
introduces what is involved in creating and publishing a website.
Explain how to blog using Windows Live Writer
You might have visited blogs on various topics. A blog is a way to share thoughts and
experiences with others on a webpage. This demonstration shows how to post to a blog using
Windows Live Writer.
When you open Windows Live Writer, you are presented with a new default post you can edit.
You may then click the post title and type in the text you want for your post.
You then click the post area below the title and type in text for your post.
You can change the appearance of your text by highlighting it and clicking on any of
the text formatting options on the toolbar or by choosing options on the Format
menu.

You can add a picture to your blog post by clicking on the Insert Picture button and
selecting the picture you want to add.

You can save your blog post locally by clicking the Save draft button on the toolbar. Your blog
post will be saved as a draft so you can come back and edit later before posting. You can open a
draft by clicking it on the right pane.
Once you are happy with your blog post, you can publish it for others to see by
clicking the Publish option on the toolbar.
A dialog will appear showing you progress of your post being published. If the View
in browser after publishing box is checked, your blog post will be displayed in the
browser when publishing is finished. After your post has been published, other
people will be able to see it on your blog.

Remember, email never gets lost in the mail so excuses such as that won't work.

Introduction to Productivity Programs

Productivity Programs are designed to help you perform specific tasks easily and efficiently.
With these programs you can create:
Text Documents
Presentations

Databases

Spreadsheets

And More

In this lesson, you will learn about the basic features of productivity programs. You will also
learn about templates and Office Web applications that help you create and edit documents.
Overview of Productivity Programs
Microsoft Office 2013 provides users with the latest productivity applications. Each application
has a specific purpose, though they share a similar interface.
Click the boxes to the left and see what Office 2013 Application is the best fit.

Word

Useful for reports, essays, letters, and documentation.

Excel

Useful for managing bills, showing a budget, and other number tracking jobs.

PowerPoint

Useful for school lectures, business proposals, and conference talks.

Access

Useful for storing shipping records, patient records, and store products.

Introduction to the user interface

You can use different types of productivity programs to create different types of documents for
storing and presenting information. Most productivity programs provide features to perform
some common tasks such as; open and close a file, print a file, and insert, move, modify, and
delete text and objects. To help you perform these common tasks, most productivity programs
include some common features and commands. Microsofts Office Programs have several
common features, such as:
Ribbon
Quick Access

Toolbar

And more

In this lesson, you will learn about the common features and commands of various types of
productivity programs. You will also learn about the main components of the user interface,
keyboard shortcuts, and various key combinations.
The User Interface
The user interface is the means by which you interact with the productivity programs in Office
2013. You will find many common user interface features and commands across all the Office
2013 applications.
User Interface Review
This demonstration introduced you to the following areas of the user interface:
Quick Access Toolbar
Title Bar

Ribbon

Workspace

Status Bar

Using the Pointer

A pointer is the on-screen arrow or shape that moves when you move your mouse or other
pointing device. Using the pointer, you can quickly move around a document and perform
commands.
A cursor is a blinking vertical bar on the screen that indicates the location where you can insert
text or graphics in a document. For example, in Word 2013, you can set the location of the cursor
by moving the pointer to some text and then clicking the left mouse butto
Working with the ribbon
In productivity applications, such as Microsoft Word 2013, Excel 2013, and PowerPoint 2013,
the ribbon consists of tabs. Each tab is divided into groups. A group helps you perform a set of
similar tasks, such as adding picture shapes in a document.
The ribbon also consists of contextual tabs, which appear only when necessary. For example, in a
Word 2013 document, the contextual tab for editing a table appears when a table is inserted in
the document.
Ribbon in Word, Excel, and PowerPoint Review

You should now be familiar with how to do the following:

Select tabs
Locate groups of similar functions

Open the dialog box for a group

Locate the Save and Print commands

Customize the ribbon

Open the Help dialog box

Mini Toolbar
The Mini Toolbar appears when you select text in a document. It gives you easy access to
commands that you can use to change the size, color, or font of text.
Mini Toolbar Review
You should now be familiar with the following commands on the Mini Toolbar:

Changing font
Font size

Bold, Italic, and Underline

Font Color

Image quick styles

Inserting Office.com clip art

Keyboard techniques for entering text

You use the keyboard to enter information into a computer. Depending on the application you are
running, keyboard input will behave differently. For example, Word 2013 is a word processor, so
most of your keyboard input adds and modifies text.
Keyboard Review
You should now have a basic understanding of how to use a keyboard.
Keep the following in mind:
Alphanumeric keys are AZ and 09.
Modifier keys are Alt, Shift, Ctrl, and Cmd (Mac only).
Action keys are the Spacebar, Enter, Delete, Backspace, the arrow keys, Tab, and Caps Lock.

Keyboard shortcuts
In addition to entering information by using single keystrokes and simple key combinations, you
can use advanced keyboard shortcuts and key combinations, which speed up your productivity.
Keyboard Shortcuts Review
You should now have a basic understanding of how to use keyboard shortcuts. Keep the
following in mind:

Modifier keys are Alt, Shift, Ctrl, and Cmd (Mac only).
A key combination consists of pressing two or more keys

Shortcut keys will perform an action quickly

Introduction to Word Processors

Microsoft Word 2013 is a word processor that can help you create documents including:
Professional Resumes
Agendas

Brochures

Certificates

Birthday Cards

And More

In this lesson you will be introduced to the basic tasks you can perform with Word 2013. You
will learn to work with text, tables, and pictures.
Basic Tasks in Word 2013
A word processor is a software program that you use to create and work with text on a computer.
It performs the same functions as paper, a pen, a typewriter or keyboard, an eraser, and a
dictionary. Most computers come with basic word processors such as Notepad and WordPad. You
can use advanced word processors, such as Word 2013, to perform more complex tasks that
include checking for spelling errors, finding synonyms, inserting graphics, and printing
documents.
Creating a Document by Using a Template
Office 2013 provides various types of templates. These templates contain predefined formats and
layouts that you can use to create a document quickly. Standard templates are available locally
on your computer. However, advanced templates are also available on the Office.com web site.
Working with Tables and Pictures

You can divide information in a table to group different types of data and make it easier to read
the entire document. You can also include pictures in a document to make it visually appealing.
Proofreading Documents
Word 2013 will automatically check the spelling, grammar, and punctuation of your documents.
The AutoCorrect function that will automatically correct misspellings and grammatical errors as
soon as you start typing the text. For example, typing teh will automatically be corrected to
the
Proofreading Documents Review
You should now be familiar with the following proofreading features:
Spelling & grammar command
Misspelled word red wavy underline marker

Replacing incorrectly spelled words

Grammar suggestions

Add to dictionary

Thesaurus

Benefits of Desktop Publishing

Up to this point you have learned about Word Processors such as Word 2013. But if you are
looking to create documents with more specialized text and image layouts you can use a desktop
publishing program such as Publisher 2013. Publisher 2013 makes it easier to create and modify
specialized documents like newsletters, brochures, flyers, signs, and catalogs.
Benefits of Desktop Publishing Review
This demonstration introduced you to the following tasks you can perform with Publisher 2013:
Create a DTP document based on a template
Modify text to suit your particular project

Change the provided default images

Browse the Office 2013 royalty-free image catalog

Introduction to Spreadsheet Programs

Excel 2013 allows you to create spreadsheets that can be used for:
Schedules
Budgets

Calendars

Invoices

Plans

And More

In this lesson, you will learn about the components of a spreadsheet and how to input data. You
will also learn how to perform basic mathematical tasks, create charts and graphs, and how to
print your spreadsheets.
Overview of Spreadsheet Programs
Microsoft Office 2013 includes Excel 2013, the leading spreadsheet program. A spreadsheet is a
table consisting of rows and columns designed to organize your data. Data can consist of words
or numbers used to describe an item. A number might represent the cost of groceries, or the date
they were purchased. Text might describe where you purchased the groceries.
Inerting Data in a Spreadsheet Review
Rows move across the page and are labelled by numbers
Columns move up and down the page and are labelled by letters

You can enter text, numbers, and formulas into the spreadsheet cells

Performing Basic Mathematical Tasks in a Spreadsheet

In addition to storing and manipulating data, a spreadsheet program such as Excel 2013 allows
you to perform various mathematical tasks on our data quickly and accurately. The spreadsheet
program provides functions that perform calculations on the cells of the spreadsheet. For
example, you could add together all of your household expenses to reach a total, or use the
average function to calculate the average of your grades.
Performing Basic Mathematical Tasks in a Spreadsheet Review
1. Select a range of cells.
2. Calculate a cells value by using a function.
3. Copy a function from one cell to another.
Inserting Charts
Excel 2013 provides a variety of charts. The following demonstration will show you the basic
steps to inserting and editing a chart in a spreadsheet.
How to Print Spreadsheet Data
Excel 2013 provides many options for printing your spreadsheets. You can choose to print with
either landscape or portrait orientation. You can also have Excel fit all of the data on one page.
Lets look as some of the ways you can print spreadsheets in Excel 2013.
How to Print Spreadsheet Data Review
Print settings are available in the backstage view by clicking on the File tab
You can specify specific pages or even data selections to print

You can use the custom scaling options to make your data fit different page sizes

Introduction to Presentation Programs

PowerPoint 2013 is Microsofts presentation program. PowerPoint allows you to create
presentations for:
Business Meetings
Lesson Plans

Public Speeches

And more

Introduction to Presentation Programs

PowerPoint 2013 helps you inform and influence your audience with visual presentations.
Presentations consist of slides that can contain text, images, animation, and video. PowerPoint
presentations can be displayed digitally as a slide show or printed for distribution.
Creating a Presentation
PowerPoint 2013 provides you with tools to quickly and easily give your presentations a
professional look. You can apply a theme to your slides for a consistent look and style. You can
use transitions to add movement and animation to your slides. PowerPoint allows you to preview
your presentation so you can test all of your edits.
Creating a Presentation Review
You can directly add text to your slides by clicking in the text areas
PowerPoint 2013 provides a number of predesigned slide layouts you can use

You can use styles to easily change your entire presentation and give it a consistent look

Adding Graphics and Multimedia

Most presentations are designed to show the audience some content. Many times the best way to
express the content is with images, tables and charts. Power Point 2013 supports content from
other Office 2013 products. The content can be pasted from other Office 2013 products or built
directly within Power Point 2013. Lets look at some of the ways we can improve the content of
a presentation.
Add Graphics and Multimedia Review
The Insert tab on the ribbon is where you will find the groups and commands to add
images, illustrations and other multimedia
You can easily build tables or charts to use in your slide presentations

SmartArt provides prebuilt graphics that can enhance your slides

How to Print a Presentation

PowerPoint 2013 provides many options for printing spreadsheets, for instance you can adjust
how many slides appear on a pritned page. You can include your slide notes on printed handouts.
Lets look as some of the ways you can print presentations with PowerPoint.
Introduction to Database Programs
Access 2013 is Microsoft's database program. This specialized program allows you to create a
database for:
Holding Customer Information
Tracking Employee Hours

Recording Financial Transactions

And More

In this lesson, you will learn about the basic tasks that you can perform with Access.
You will learn how to create and use a database and how to generate reports.

Overview of Databases
Businesses generate a lot of data, customer names, sales numbers, inventory to name a few. This
data is usually stored in several different tables andwhen someone wants to verify your account
they check the data in the database.
Access 2013 allows you to build tables, fill them with data, and then make use of the data with
reports and queries
Creating a Database
Databases contains several tables. A table needs a description of the data before data can be
entered. For any column we must specify if the data will be text, a number, a date or something
more sophisticated. By specifying the data type we can insure the data is valid when it is add to
the table. Lets look at how we added a table to a database