Computer fundamentals

Introduction to Computer Literacy

  • Emphasis on downloading and utilizing shared documents for class.

  • Importance of using either a Windows or Mac interface for teaching computer literacy.

Application Software

  • Definition: Application software is designed for specific tasks.

  • Examples: Microsoft Word for text processing.

Document Basics

  • Creating a Document:

    • Default name when a new document is opened is 'Document' with a blank page.

    • Components of the document interface:

      • Title Bar: Displays the name of the document.

      • Quick Access Toolbar: Contains frequently used commands (e.g. save, undo, redo).

      • Ribbon: Includes various tabs such as Home, File, etc., with grouped commands.

Quick Access Toolbar

  • Default Commands: Save, Undo, Redo.

  • Adding Commands: Use the drop-down arrow to customize the toolbar.

Formatting Text in MS Word

  • Selecting Text:

    • Methods include double-clicking a word or triple-clicking a paragraph. Holding left mouse button allows selection via drag.

  • Using the Ribbon for Formatting:

    • Font Group includes options for changing font type (e.g. Times New Roman, Calibri), size, bold, italicize, underline, highlight, and font color.

    • Paragraph Group includes alignment commands (left, center, right, justify) and options for bulleted or numbered lists.

Advanced Document Features

  • Inserting Page Numbers and Headers/Footers:

    • Insert tab is used for adding headers and footers to documents. Pages can have identical or differentiated formats.

    • Use Page Number command under Footer group to control numbering style.

Creating a Table of Contents

  • Table of contents relies on the heading styles applied in the document:

    • Steps to create:

      • Apply heading styles (e.g., Heading 1 for main titles, Heading 2 for subtitles).

      • Go to References tab to insert table of contents.

  • Update Table of Contents whenever changes are made to the headings or the document content.

Saving Documents

  • Saving vs. Save As:

    • Save: Updates the current document.

    • Save As: Creates a duplicate, allowing changes to filename, location, or file type (e.g. PDF).

  • Importance of regularly saving to avoid data loss.

Class Assignment Information

  • Group Assignment: Utilize a shared document to format and apply a table of contents collaboratively.

  • Discussion of the importance of teamwork and practicing the skills learned in class.

Conclusion

  • A reminder to practice the learned skills in real assignments and projects to enhance understanding and retention.