Section outline

  • General

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  • Module Overview

    This module is designed to introduce learners to fundamental concepts and practical skills essential for navigating the digital world. It covers a range of topics aimed at building a strong foundation in computer literacy and application. The module incorporates various learning resources, including text-based content, video materials, and practical assignments, to cater to different learning styles and promote active engagement. Assessments within the module include pre-assessments, post-assessments, and practical tasks designed to evaluate students' understanding and application of the learned skills. This is the MODULE GUIDE

  • Lecturer

    Dr. M Phore

    Dr M Phore: The lecture for this module
    Office Number: E BLab 5

  • Introduction to Computers

    • Week1: Overview

      This week, learners will explore the basics of computers, understand hardware and software components, and examine the role of computers in daily life.

      • Learning Outcomes

        By the end of this topic, learners should be able to:

        • Identify and label key hardware components of a computer.
        • List examples of application and system software
        • Describe the difference between hardware and software.
        • Explain how ICT is used in everyday environments.
        • Differentiate between input, output, processing, and storage devices.

      • Pre-Assessment

        Engage with this assessment before going to the lesson content, to engage your prior knowledge and prepare yourself for the content itself.

      • Lesson Content

        A computer is an electronic device that receives input, processes data, produces output, and stores information-a concept referred to as the IPOS model (Input, Processing, Output, Storage). This foundational model helps to understand how computers operate in handling data and tasks. Understanding computer hardware is essential to recognizing how the system functions. Hardware includes input devices such as keyboards and mice, output devices like monitors and printers, processing units such as the CPU, and various storage devices including hard drives and USB flash drives.

        In addition to hardware, computers also rely on software to operate. Software is divided into two main categories: system software and application software. System software includes operating systems that manage hardware and basic functions, while application software includes programs that enable users to perform specific tasks such as word processing or browsing the internet.

        Watch the video below: 

        Knowing the distinction between these types of software is important for understanding how users interact with computers.

        Information and Communication Technology (ICT) plays a significant role in various sectors. In education, ICT enables digital learning and resource sharing. In business, it facilitates communication, data processing, and online transactions. In healthcare, ICT supports patient record management and virtual consultations. These examples highlight the relevance and integration of ICT in everyday life and professional environments.

  • Introduction to MS Word

    • Week 2: Overview

      In this week, learners will be introduced to Microsoft Word as one of the most widely used productivity tools for creating and editing text-based documents. The aim of this week is to help the learners understand the basic interface, features, and functions of Microsoft Word, and to explore how productivity tools assist in both academic and professional environments.

      • Learning Outcomes

        By the end of the week, learners will be able to:

        • Identify the Microsoft Word interface (ribbon, toolbar, workspace).
        • Insert elements: images, tables, page numbers, headers/footers.
        • Apply basic formatting: fonts, alignment, spacing, styles.
        • Create, save, and print Word documents.

      • Lesson Content

        Microsoft Word is a word processing application used for creating, editing, formatting, and printing professional documents. It offers tools for manipulating text, inserting images and tables, adjusting page layout, and applying consistent formatting styles across a document. Understanding how to use features such as headers, footers, bullet points, and page numbering contributes to the development of clean, structured, and readable documents suitable for both academic and professional contexts.

        Look at the playlist below:

        The use of productivity tools extends beyond Microsoft Word. Tools like Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint complement Word by providing specialized functions such as data organization, analysis, and visual presentation. Cloud-based platforms, such as Google Docs, offer collaborative features that allow multiple users to work on the same document simultaneously from different locations. This shift toward cloud computing highlights the importance of digital literacy in managing and sharing information effectively.

        Familiarity with productivity software enhances communication, supports organization, and improves efficiency in completing digital tasks. These tools form the foundation for digital engagement in a wide range of environments, enabling users to produce high-quality work and collaborate more effectively in the digital age.

  • Internet and Electronic Communications

    • This week introduces learners to the basics of the internet and electronic communication, focusing on safe and effective use of web browsers, search engines, and email.

      • Lesson Outcomes

        By the end of this week, learners will be able to:

        • Define what the Internet is and explain how it works.
        • Identify the main functions of web browsers and search engines.
        • Create, send, and reply to emails using proper etiquette.
        • Demonstrate awareness of internet safety and responsible online behavior.

      • Lesson Content

        The internet is a global network that connects millions of computers and devices, enabling the sharing of information and communication across vast distances. It supports a variety of services including web browsing, email, file sharing, and real-time communication. Web browsers such as Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, and Microsoft Edge are used to access websites, while search engines like Google and Bing assist in locating information efficiently through the use of keywords and filters.

        Here is a video about the internet:

        Electronic communication plays a central role in how individuals and organizations exchange messages and data. Email is one of the most widely used forms of communication, allowing users to send and receive digital messages instantly. Understanding how to compose, send, and manage emails; including the use of subject lines, attachments, and proper etiquette is essential for effective communication. Other tools such as messaging apps, video conferencing platforms, and online forums further expand the range of communication options available today. That is the significant of e-communication in the 21st Century. 

        Watch this video about e-communications: 

        As digital interaction becomes more integrated into everyday life, responsible online behavior is increasingly important. This includes protecting personal information, recognizing cyber threats such as phishing, and demonstrating respectful conduct in digital environments. Developing these skills ensures that technology is used safely, ethically, and effectively for both personal and professional purposes.