Computers for the Terrified!

This beginners computer course will show you how to become completely self-sufficient on your own computer WITHIN A WEEK, even if you're starting at zero

Course Description

If you're completely new to computers, this beginners computer course will get you up-and-running.

It cuts through all the clutter and terminology and explains in simple terms how to customise and use your own computer.

From the basics like how to use your mouse or trackpad to finding and using programs, this course has everything to get you started.

This absolute beginners computer course is a good precursor to other introduction courses like Word, Excel, Outlook and Powerpoint.

Duration

One session (3-4 hours for 1 person, 5 hours for a group)

Prerequisites

None

Versions Taught

Our computers are set up with the latest software - currently that's Office 365 (desktop). If you have an older computer or an older version of Microsoft Office, the training will be adapted so it is relevant for you.

what you get

Here's what you'll learn in this course

Overview of Microsoft Windows

What are windows and why are they called that?
Finding your way around the screen
Identifying the desktop, icons, mouse, task bar, start button, start menu, system tray, and the recycle bin

Using The Mouse

Single-left-click
Double-left-click
Triple-left-click
Right-click
Drag and drop

HELP!

The different places you can go for help
Using Cortana (using voice and typed search)
Using the 'Tell me what you want to do' tool
Searching for a program
Searching for a file

Working With Apps (a.k.a. 'Programs')

Opening and closing an app
Using the Start menu to start an app
Using the task bar to start an app
Using desktop icons to start an app
Working with more than one program at the same time
Switching between programs
How to play music
How to play video`

Working With Windows

Maximising a window
Minimising a window
Restoring and resizing a window
Closing a window
Moving a window
Using the Show Desktop featureRight-click

Using Dialog Boxes

What is a dialog box?
Tabbed pages
Text boxes
Drop-down lists
Option buttons
Tick boxes
Spinner buttons
Scroll bars

Basic Editing

Un-do and Re-do
Cut, copy and paste
Simple Word formatting
Printing your work

Working With Files & Folders

Using File Explorer
Hard disks, USB sticks (also called thumb drives) and backup drives
The Cloud
Places to store and retrieve files
Changing the file view
Understanding different file types
Understanding folder structures
Opening and closing a folder
Navigating through folders
Selecting, opening and closing files
Creating and saving files
Renaming and deleting files
Moving and copying files between folders
Finding files

Exploring the Internet

What is a browser?
Using Google to search websites
Using Google Images to search (then save) images
Using Google Maps to plan a journey
How to navigate a web page
How to bookmark a favourite website

Exiting Windows SAfely

Shut down
Restart
Log Off
Switch User
Standby

Customising the Desktop

Moving and organising the desktop icons
Adding and removing desktop shortcuts
Adding and removing items from the Start menu
Adding apps to the Task Bar
Changing the desktop background
Changing the screen saver

The Recycle Bin

Finding and restoring deleted items
Deleting specific files or folders
Emptying the entire bin

Transferring pictures or video from a smartphone to the computer

Connecting the phone to the computer
Choosing which pictures to download and where to store them
Starting the download
Viewing your pictures
How to delete pictures from your phone

Email Basics (using Microsoft Mail or Microsoft Outlook)

How to send and receive email
How to use CC and BCC
Replying to or forwarding a message
Attaching a file to a message
Everything you need to get started

Microsoft Word Basics

How to create a simple document and format the text and page layout

By the end of this beginners computer course you will be both confident and competent on your computer. You'll be able to use it with ease and customise it to work YOUR WAY and all without asking anyone for help.