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Beginner Lessons

Microsoft Windows XP Starter Edition

Lesson 1: Introduction to Computers

Objectives

At the end of this lesson, you will understand:

Skills You Will Need

This lesson requires no prerequisite skills to achieve the lesson objectives.

Session 1: What Is a Computer?

In this era of information technology, computers are used in almost all walks of life. Computers are widely used in occupational fields such as education, communication, entertainment, banking, business, medicine, weather forecasting, and scientific research.

At home, we use computers for communicating with others, family entertainment, performing research, writing and producing school papers, creating pictures, tracking personal finances, and much more.

Note  The term Information Technology refers to creating, managing, processing, and exchanging digital information.

A computer (see Figure 1.1) can be described as an electronic device that performs mathematical, logical, and graphical manipulations. To perform these activities and user tasks, computers must be equipped with an operating system and software programs.

Figure 1.1: A computer

Note  A software program is a set of instructions that enables a computer to perform a given task.

Session 2: What is the Personal Computer (PC)?

The personal computer — referred to as a PC — is the most popular type of computer used today. A personal computer is a computer designed to be used by one individual at a time. Personal computers can be classified into two major categories: stationary and portable computers. Stationary computers are designed for the desktop. Portable computers include laptops, handheld computers, and Tablet PCs.

Desktop Computers

Desktop computers are usually placed on desks or tables, hence the name desktop. This type of computer is generally the largest of all PCs. Each component of a desktop computer is usually separate and interchangeable. You can typically attach more peripheral devices to a desktop computer (see Figure 1.2).

Figure 1.2: Desktop PC

Laptops and Notebooks

Laptops (see Figure 1.3) are small portable computers that weigh a few kilograms. Modern laptops are often called notebook computers because of their small size. Notebooks are typically 10 cm or less in thickness. Well-known manufacturers of laptops and notebooks include IBM, Apple, Compaq, Dell, Toshiba and Hewlett-Packard. Laptops and notebooks are equipped with a Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) screen and can operate on batteries, which gives users complete mobility. Laptops and notebooks combine the primary computer components in a single unit. The laptop may include a floppy drive, CD drive, and DVD drive, or these drives may be available for attachment as peripheral devices to keep the weight low.

Figure 1.3: Laptop PC

Handheld Computers

Handheld computers (see Figure 1.4) are small portable computers designed to fit in your handbag or pocket. These computers are generally not as powerful as desktop or laptop computers, but are useful for specific tasks. Handheld computers are designed to assist you with everyday activities, such as using a calendar and keeping an address book. They can be used to take notes, keep track of task lists, and show details of appointments. They are designed to synchronize with your e-mail and calendar. They are usually operated with a stylus.

Figure 1.4: Handheld PC

Tablet PCs

A Tablet PC (see Figure 1.5) is a type of notebook computer. It allows the user to take notes or draw pictures on the screen using a special pen. The user input can be edited and then shared with others via e-mail.

Figure 1.5: Tablet PC

Check Your Learning

  1. Which computer can you use to take notes by writing on the screen?
  2. List the types of computers you find in the school.
  3. What are the limitations of handheld computers?

Session 3: How Computers Are Used at Home and Work

In the last few decades, computers have brought about radical change to all aspects of our lives. You will now see what kinds of changes computers have made in our personal experiences at home, at work, and at school.

Computers at Home

The computer is proving to be a invaluable tool in our homes for all members of the family. Using a computer gives us access to the Internet with its powerful search and information-gathering capabilities. The computer and the Internet erase borders. People who live in remote locations are instantly connected and able to communicate directly with people all over the world. People can learn more about their own and each other's daily lives than at any other time in history. They can also learn new skills with distance learning classes and self-paced tutorials.

Here are a few ways in which we use computers in our homes.

Note  The Internet is an interconnection of thousands of computers across the globe and a very powerful communication medium. To connect to the Internet, you must set up an account with an Internet Service Provider (ISP) that offers connection in your area.

Computers as a study tool

Parents understand the value of the computer to their children's education. Students are empowered by the computer and are able to greatly expand their capabilities for studies and research. With computers, they also acquire valuable skills for potential future employment.

Students at all levels find the computer an indispensable tool for keeping track of classes and assignments, for researching and gathering data, and for participating in discussions with their class. Students and teachers use the Internet to send e-mail messages, gather feedback, assign and submit homework, collaborate on student papers, and send out announcements.

Students today must find it difficult to imagine a world where all assignments and papers had to be individually typed by hand, without the ability to create multiple copies with the push of a button and no ability to archive and reuse their work. From basic tasks to powerful research and communication, the computer has truly revolutionized the world of education.

Note  A Web site is a location on the World Wide Web. A uniform resource locator (or URL) is the global address of pages and documents on the Web. URLs are often referred to as links or Web pages.

E-mail stands for electronic mail. E-mail is used to send and receive messages to other people. A newsgroup is an online discussion forum where the user posts and views messages.

Computers as a communication tool

Computers allow us to communicate in many new and effective ways using e-mail and instant messaging.

In many ways, e-mail is a more effective tool than paper letter-writing because it allows us to send a single message to many recipients, does not require a postage stamp, and arrives almost instanteously in the recipient's e-mail inbox. E-mails can be saved, printed, and forwarded to others. Almost any type of file can be attached to an e-mail and sent along with the message, including documents, pictures, and music files.

Instant messaging allows even faster communication than e-mail. Communicating with instant messaging is called chatting — always a popular activity among family and friends. An instant messaging program is set up to display a list of the user's contacts, which are defined as friends and acquaintances who also have e-mail addresses and instant-messaging capabilities. When the user logs on to the Internet on their computer, the list of contacts immediately shows who is online and who is not. Instant messages can be sent to any contact who is online. Multiple chat conversations are commonly held at the same time, as are chat conversations with multiple users.

Computers as an entertainment tool

Families today are enjoying many entertainment activities with their computers. Popular uses include digital photograpy, playing games, downloading and listening to music, and watching movies.

Digital photography shares many of the compelling characteristics of e-mail and other digital documents. Digital photographs can be saved, sent in e-mail, printed at home or by a professional photography studio. For example, if someone takes a digital photograph, that picture can be posted to a Web site and available for viewing worldwide in a matter of minutes.

Playing games on the computer is an activity that many people enjoy. Players can participate in games played over the Internet and compete with other players around the world.

Many music files and songs are available for legal download from the Internet or for purchase from a music service. The song files can be played on the computer. They can also be downloaded to a personal music player and enjoyed whenever the listener wishes.

If the computer is equipped with a DVD player or has an external DVD player attached to it, family and friends can even watch movies.

Computers as a home productivity tool

Computers have greatly improved our ability to manage personal finances. Examples include tracking monthly expenses, calculating tax payments, and monitoring personal investments. When using a financial software program, the user enters expenses (by category) and income. It is then easy to chart how much was spent on housing, food, fuel, utilities, personal expenses, and any other category desired. The family budget can be monitored and adjusted to meet savings plans based on the resulting data. Computers are also used for online bill-paying, which ensures payments are always received on time.

Computers are valuable tools for activities such as writing letters, archiving important family documents, and storing important personal data in a form that can be protected and reproduced at any time.

Computers at Work

Many people now use computers at work. Computers automate tasks that were previously time-consuming and laborious. They have greatly improved the speed and accuracy of record-keeping, inventory tracking, sales transactions, business forecasting, and the ability to communicate quickly and efficiently. Many organizations now use Web sites to inform, communicate with, and sell to their customers directly on the Internet.

Here are some examples of how computers are used at work.

Government: Agencies can make public data archives accessible online so the public can locate important information, such as tax records and property titles. Governments can streamline processes by allowing the public to apply online for official documents such as passports, birth certificates, licenses, and voter registration.

Law enforcement: Computers allow law enforcement agencies (both regional, national, and international) to collaborate and share information to resolve investigations and criminal cases more quickly and efficiently. Access to important public records can improve safety and increase the amount of information to the general public.

Retail business: In retail stores, computers automate sales transactions. Customers can purchase items more quickly and receive a detailed transaction record. The retailer can communicate quickly with suppliers, buyers, and business partners, and set up a worldwide supply chain. Computers allow businesses to efficiently perform recordkeeping, calculate payroll and taxes, and manage inventory.

Corporate business: With a single e-mail, managers can communicate with all employees worldwide. Employee information and data is readily available. Computer data analysis can provide a wide variety of charts and graphs for reports. Companies can more easily keep up with industry and international trends. By providing a company Web site, customers can evaluate and purchase products, learn about the company's mission, values, and goals, apply for open positions, and resolve technical support issues.

Professional occupations: Computers allow lawyers, physicians, and other professionals to efficiently schedule and track their clients and billings. Personal records can be accessed while meeting with clients. The latest trends, breakthroughs, and research can be monitored and tracked. Clients can more easily locate professionals that meet the needs of their particular situation in the area of their choice.

Check Your Learning

  1. List some further uses of computers. For each program, include one benefit that has resulted from the use of computers.

    Table 1.1: Computer Programs and Their Benefits

    Computer Programs Benefits
    Example: Flight reservationsTickets are issued faster, and records on issued tickets are easily maintained. E-tickets eliminate the need for paper tickets.

  2. List some situations where you can use computers to simplify your administrative tasks at work.

    Table 1.2: Using Computers at Work

    Computer ProgramsBenefits
    Example: Customers call your company to purchase balloons.Instead of writing the order information by hand, then giving copies to the shipping department, you enter the information in the computer. If the customer calls to order a second product, you can easily locate the data and do not have to type this information again.

  3. List examples of how computers can provide entertainment for your family.

    Table 1.3: Using Computers for Entertainment

    Computer ProgramsBenefits
    Example: Mary plans to buy a music CD, but she wants to hear a preview of several songs before completing the purchase.Mary can listen to song samples on the Web site of several Internet retailers. When she is ready to purchase the CD, she can buy it from the same retailer that provided the sound clip.

  4. List examples of how children can use the computer for their schoolwork.

    Table 1.4: Using Computers at School

    Computer ProgramsBenefits
    Example: John needs to research and write a 10-page essay and cite three sources on Global Warming. John can locate numerous sources of information about Global Warming on the Internet. When he has finished writing the paper, he can print and submit it. He may also be able to submit the paper to his instructor by e-mail.

  5. List some examples of how computers and the Internet can improve communication both at work and at home.

    Table 1.5: Using Computers to Communicate

    Computer ProgramsBenefits
    Example: Mother can send details of a family reunion to all family members at the same time. Family members receive a written record of event details, can book their transportation with confidence, and can discuss arrangements with other family members.

Session 4: Benefits and Limitations of Computers

The benefits of computers at school, work, and home are numerous. Nevertheless, computers can only be beneficial if users are able to provide accurate and adequate input.

Benefits of Computers

The following section shows some of the benefits of computers.

High speed: Computers have the ability to perform routine tasks at a greater speed than human beings. They can perform complex calculations in seconds. For example, teachers can use computers to quickly prepare lists of student grades, instead of preparing them manually.

Accuracy: When a task is performed manually, there is always a possibility of human error. Computers can be used to perform tasks in a way that ensures accuracy when the data input is correct.

Storage: Computers can store large amounts of information. After the information is stored, it can be retrieved as needed. For example, you can use computers to store the details of all your retail operations. You can then use the information to perform different types of analyses. For example, you might want to track the correlation between a new line of merchandise and any increase in sales.

Automation: Computers can be instructed to automatically perform complex tasks. For example, if you want to generate a report and charts showing the average monthly performance of your personal investments, a computer will help you accomplish this efficiently. Automation can increase your personal productivity.

Consistency: Computers can perform the same task repeatedly and with the same accuracy, without getting tired. For example, you can use the computer to print invitations for holiday parties or community meetings. The computer will print each invitation with the same quality in the same time.

Versatility: Computers can be used to perform both simple and complex tasks. For example, you can use them to write a letter, play music, draw a picture, or design a car.

Cost-effectiveness: Computers reduce the amount of paperwork and human effort, thereby reducing costs. For example, you can create and edit reports easily using a computer. You can send electronic reports to your manager or teacher via e-mail.

Limitations of Computers

Computers are powerful tools that perform a wide range of functions, but they need clear and complete instructions to perform a task accurately. If the instructions are not clear or complete, the computer will not produce the required result. For example, if you want to calculate the average monthly percentage of your total income that was spent on food for the previous year, you must provide the correct amount spent each month, as well as proper instructions to calculate the average.

Check Your Learning

  1. List three differences between a computer and a typewriter.

    Table 1.7: Differences Between a Computer and a Typewriter

    ComputerTypewriter
  2. Describe four situations in which a computer can increase productivity.

    Table 1.8: Computer Programs

    SituationDescription

Test Your Knowledge

  1. Identify the task that cannot be performed by a computer.
    1. Perform arithmetic calculations on two given values.
    2. Draw geometric shapes based on the input coordinates.
    3. Suggest an alternate solution when data has been entered incorrectly.
  2. Ann wants to calculate the average sales figures for 20 employees by using a formula. By mistake, she types 2 instead of 20 as the denominator. What will the result of this calculation be?
    1. The computer displays an error message.
    2. The computer calculates the correct average.
    3. The computer divides the total marks by 2.
  3. Jane, a research scientist, has been invited to attend a national conference. She wants to carry her computer along with her because she has stored her presentation on the computer. She also needs to take down handwritten notes on her computer during the conference. Which type of computer is she using?
    1. Desktop
    2. Notebook
    3. Tablet PC

Lesson Objective Checklist

Skills AcquiredYesNo
I can describe the use of computers at home and at work.
I can describe the benefits and limitations of computers.
I can list different types of personal computers.

Terms to Remember

  • A Computer is an electronic device that can perform activities that involve mathematical, logical and graphical manipulations.
  • Desktop computers are computers that are usually placed on desks or tables.
  • E-mail stands for electronic mail. E-mail is used to send and receive messages to other people. A newsgroup is an online discussion forum where the user posts and views messages.
  • Handheld computers are small portable computers designed to fit your pocket. They are typically not as powerful as desktops or Notebooks.
  • Information Technology is the term used to refer to the subjects related to creating, managing, processing and exchanging information.
  • The Internet is an interconnection of thousands of computers across the globe.
  • Laptop computers are small portable computers weighing a few kilograms. Modern laptops are often called Notebook computers.
  • Liquid Crystal Display, or LCD, is a type of display used for laptop and notebook computers and also in digital watches.
  • A Multimedia program is a program that uses a combination of text, graphics, sound and video.
  • A Newsgroup is an online discussion forum where the user can post and view messages.
  • A Personal computer is a computer designed to be used by one individual at a time.
  • A Program is a set of instructions that enables a computer to perform a given task.
  • A Tablet PC is a type of Notebook computer that allows the user to take notes on the screen using a special pen.
  • A Uniform Resource Locator, or URL, is the global address of documents and other resources on the Web.
  • The term Web Link refers to a Uniform Resource Locator (URL).
  • A Web Page is a document on the World Wide Web.
  • A Web Site is a location on the World Wide Web.
  • The World Wide Web is a system of servers on the Internet that supports documents formatted in Hypertext Markup Language (HTML).