Computer Basics for Public Health

Course Title: Computer Basics for Public Health

Course Title: Basic Computer Skills

Course Description: This course is designed for individuals who have limited or no
experience with computers. It covers the foundational skills needed to navigate and use
a computer effectively.

Course Outline:
Week 1: Introduction to Computers
 Understanding the different parts of a computer (hardware and software)
 Turning on and shutting down a computer
 Logging in and creating user accounts
 Navigating the desktop and user interface
Week 2: Using the Operating System
 Introduction to the Windows or macOS operating system
 Managing files and folders
 Customizing desktop settings
 Basic keyboard shortcuts
Week 3: Internet and Email Basics
 Introduction to web browsers (e.g., Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox)
 Navigating websites
 Setting up and using email accounts
 Sending and receiving emails
Week 4: Word Processing
 Introduction to word processing software (e.g., Microsoft Word, Google Docs)
 Creating, editing, and formatting documents
 Saving and printing documents
Week 5: Spreadsheets
 Introduction to spreadsheet software (e.g., Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets)
 Creating and formatting spreadsheets
 Data entry and basic formulas
Week 6: Basic Online Safety
 Understanding internet safety and security
 Recognizing and avoiding online threats (e.g., phishing)
 Creating strong passwords
Week 7: Multimedia and Basic Graphics
 Introduction to image and graphics editing (e.g., Paint, Canva)
 Working with images and basic graphic design
Week 8: Basic Troubleshooting
 Identifying common computer problems
 Simple troubleshooting steps and when to seek help
Week 9: Introduction to Social Media
 Setting up and using social media accounts (e.g., Facebook, Twitter)
 Navigating social media platforms
 Privacy and security settings
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Week 10: Course Review and Next Steps
 Recap of key concepts and skills learned
 Exploring further resources and courses for skill improvement

Assessment:
Quizzes and in-class assessments (20%)
Homework assignments (20%)
Final project or paper (20%)
Final examination (40%)

Grading Scale:
A: 90-100
B: 80-89
C: 70-79
D: 60-69
F: Below 60

Sample Questions
Here are some sample questions that can be used to assess basic computer skills in a
course:
1. What does CPU stand for, and what is its primary function in a computer?
2. Describe the difference between RAM and storage (e.g., hard drive or SSD) in a
computer.
3. How do you create a new folder on your computer's desktop?
4. Explain the difference between a web browser and a search engine. Give examples
of each.
5. What is the purpose of an operating system, and name a few popular operating
systems.
6. How do you copy and paste text or files on your computer?
7. Describe the difference between a file and a folder. How do you organize files into
folders?
8. What is a desktop shortcut, and how can you create one for a specific program or
file?
9. Explain the concept of file extensions (e.g., .docx, .jpg) and how they are used.
10. How do you install a new software application on your computer?
11. Describe the process of connecting to a Wi-Fi network on your computer.
12. What is a computer virus, and how can you protect your computer from malware and
viruses?
13. How can you change the screen resolution on your computer, and why might you
want to do so?
14. What is a web URL, and how do you navigate to a specific website in a web
browser?
15. Describe the basic steps to save a document in a word processing program (e.g.,
Microsoft Word).
16. What are keyboard shortcuts, and why are they useful? Provide examples of
common keyboard shortcuts.
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17. How do you safely shut down or restart your computer's operating system?
18. Explain the concept of "drag and drop" and provide an example of when you might
use it.
19. What is the purpose of a firewall on your computer, and how does it protect your
system?
20. Describe the basic steps to send an email using a web-based email service.

These questions cover a range of fundamental computer skills and can be used to
assess the knowledge and proficiency of individuals in a basic computer skills course.
They can also be adapted to suit the specific focus and objectives of the course.

Exercises/Activities
Basic computer skills are essential for individuals in today's digital age. Here are some
exercises and activities that can help beginners develop their computer skills:
Keyboard Proficiency:
 Typing practice: Use typing tutorials or websites like TypingClub or 10FastFingers to
improve your typing speed and accuracy.
 Create a document: Open a word processing software (e.g., Microsoft Word or
Google Docs) and type a simple document, such as a personal introduction.
Mouse Skills:
 Point-and-click exercises: Play simple online games or puzzles that require you to
click and drag objects.
 Drawing or coloring: Use basic drawing software to practice your mouse control.
File Management:
 Create folders and files: Learn how to create, rename, and organize folders and files
on your computer.
 Copy and move files: Practice copying and moving files between folders.
Internet Navigation:
 Web browsing: Explore websites, search for information, and bookmark your favorite
pages.
 Online safety: Learn about safe browsing habits, including recognizing and avoiding
phishing scams.
Email Basics:
 Create an email account: Set up an email account and send a test email to a friend
or family member.
 Attach files: Learn how to attach files to your emails.
Word Processing:
 Formatting text: Experiment with changing fonts, sizes, and colors in a document.
 Create a resume or cover letter: Use a word processing program to create a
professional-looking resume or cover letter.
Spreadsheet Basics:
 Create a simple budget: Use spreadsheet software (e.g., Microsoft Excel or Google
Sheets) to create a basic budget with income and expenses.
 Perform basic calculations: Learn how to use formulas for simple calculations.
 Computer Basics for Public Health

Presentation Software:
 Create a simple slideshow: Use presentation software (e.g., Microsoft PowerPoint or
Google Slides) to make a short presentation on a topic of interest.
 Add images and transitions: Experiment with inserting images and applying
transitions between slides.
Basic Troubleshooting:
 Solve common issues: Intentionally introduce basic computer problems (e.g.,
changing display settings, resolving software conflicts) and try to troubleshoot them.
Online Learning:
 Enroll in free online courses or tutorials to further your computer skills. Websites like
Khan Academy, Coursera, and edX offer a variety of computer-related courses.
Basic Coding:
 Introduction to coding: Learn the fundamentals of coding through platforms like
Codecademy or Scratch.
 Create a simple program: Write a basic program to perform a specific task, such as
calculating the area of a rectangle.
Online Safety and Security:
 Learn about antivirus software: Install and configure antivirus software to protect
your computer.
 Practice safe online behavior: Recognize and avoid suspicious websites, emails,
and downloads.
Basic Hardware Skills:
 Connect and disconnect peripherals: Learn how to connect and disconnect devices
like a printer, external hard drive, or USB flash drive.
 Clean your computer: Safely clean your computer's keyboard, screen, and case.
Basic Graphics Editing:
 Use graphic editing software (e.g., GIMP or Adobe Photoshop Express) to crop,
resize, and enhance photos.
Online Collaboration:
 Create a shared document: Collaborate with a friend or colleague on a shared
document using cloud-based tools like Google Docs.
Social Media Skills:
 Set up and use social media accounts: Learn how to create and manage social
media profiles, and understand privacy settings.
Basic Excel Functions:
 Explore Excel functions like SUM, AVERAGE, and IF, and create a simple budget or
data analysis.
Data Backup:
 Learn how to back up your important files and data using external hard drives or
cloud storage services.

These exercises and activities should help individuals build a strong foundation in basic
computer skills, making them more comfortable and capable in using computers for
various personal and professional tasks.
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Provide students with additional resources, such as online tutorials, articles, and
reference materials to continue their learning beyond the course.

Please note that the specific software and operating systems covered in the course may
vary depending on what is most relevant to the learners and their intended use of
computers. This outline can be adjusted to suit the needs of your target audience and
the available resources.