Computer Basics
Understand the computer, monitor, keyboard, mouse, desktop, icons, windows, and basic terminology.
- Starting and shutting down
- Keyboard and mouse
- Desktop and icons
- Windows and menus
All classes are online through Microsoft Teams. No in person class location is available. You must download and install the Microsoft Teams app before class. Download Microsoft Teams.
PHASE ONE CURRICULUM
Basic Computer Training Curriculum for Adults
Our first learning pathway focuses on laptop computers, moving from the basics toward practical skills adults can use every day.
HOW WE TEACH
We teach understanding, not memorization.
A computer can seem overwhelming when every icon, window, button, and message feels unfamiliar. We break that experience into understandable pieces and connect each new skill to something the learner already knows.
The curriculum is progressive, practical, and flexible. Learners can ask questions, repeat skills, and receive additional support when needed.
Participation requirement: Active learner participation is required throughout the learning process. Every learner is expected to attend, pay attention, practice, ask questions, make a genuine effort to learn, and contribute positively to the classroom environment.
Session timeframe: A typical learning session is planned for at least six weeks, meeting one day each week for two hours. This is a minimum framework. Some studies may be completed in less time, while studies requiring more hands on practice, repetition, troubleshooting, or individual assistance may take longer.
Platform note: Windows laptops are the primary supported computers for Phase One. Chromebooks are also supported, particularly for ChromeOS, Google, browser, email, and other web based skills. Mac laptops may be used, but Mac specific instruction is currently limited. All classes are held online through Microsoft Teams, and no physical class location is available. Learners must download and install the Microsoft Teams app before class. A compatible desktop computer may be used to join online instruction.
THE LEARNING PATH
From the first click to everyday confidence.
Keyboard and Mouse
Build the physical skills needed to control the computer comfortably and accurately.
- Clicking and double clicking
- Right clicking
- Scrolling
- Dragging and dropping
- Typing and keyboard keys
Files and Folders
Learn how digital information is organized and how to keep personal work easy to find.
- Creating folders
- Naming files
- Saving and opening
- Copying and moving
- Downloads
Internet Basics
Learn how browsers and websites work and how to search for information with confidence.
- Web browsers
- Website addresses
- Links and navigation
- Internet searches
- Downloads
Email and Communication
Practice the everyday communication skills that make email useful at home and in the community.
- Reading and writing email
- Replying and forwarding
- Attachments
- Downloading attachments
- Organizing messages
Documents and Printing
Develop practical skills for creating, saving, editing, and printing simple documents.
- Basic word processing
- Typing and editing
- Formatting text
- Saving documents
- Printing
Safety and Privacy
Recognize common online risks and learn habits that help protect accounts and personal information.
- Strong passwords
- Phishing
- Scams
- Safe downloads
- Privacy
Everyday Computer Skills
Bring the pieces together for practical tasks learners may encounter in daily life.
- Settings
- Updates
- Screenshots
- USB devices
- Basic troubleshooting
PRACTICE MATTERS
Your laptop is part of the classroom.
Because learners bring their own laptops, practice happens on the device they will actually use at home. Windows and ChromeOS can look and behave differently, and that is part of the learning process.
The instructor can help learners understand what is universal about computing and what is specific to their particular computer. Windows is the strongest supported platform for instruction, while Chromebook users can receive support with ChromeOS and Google based workflows.
Hands on practice is one reason a session may continue beyond the six week minimum when a study needs more time.
Learners must have reliable internet access and the Microsoft Teams app installed before class. Microsoft Teams is required for every class.
LEARNER CONTRIBUTIONS
Participation is required. Financial donations are not.
Technology for Life does not charge tuition. Every learner is expected to contribute through active participation in the learning process, including attendance, attention, practice, questions, effort, patience, and encouragement.
Financial donations are welcome when a learner is able and chooses to give, but donating money is never required for registration, attendance, or participation.
Participation is a requirement regardless of a learner's ability to make a financial contribution.
PHASE TWO
Mobile technology comes later.
Smartphones and tablets have a different interface. They will receive their own learning opportunity after the laptop foundation is established.
Laptop first. Mobile second.