MOBILE/DIGITAL

LITERACY
FACILITATORS GUIDE
Table of Contents

1 INTRODUCTION TO THE MOBILE LITERACY COURSE........................................................................... 4

1.1. MOBILE LITERACY COURSE BACKGROUND INFORMATION ................................................................................... 4

1.2. TARGET AUDIENCE ....................................................................................................................................... 6
1.3. COURSE OUTCOMES..................................................................................................................................... 7
1.4. DIGITAL SKILLS FRAMEWORK ONE ALIGNMENT WITH COURSE OUTCOMES ............................................................ 9
1.5. COURSE ASSESSMENT APPROACH ................................................................................................................. 10
1.6. COURSE MATERIALS ................................................................................................................................... 10

2 COURSE RESOURCES AND CONTENT ............................................................................................... 11

2.1 READING REQUIRED........................................................................................................................................ 11

2.2 RECOMMENDED READING ............................................................................................................................... 11
2.3 RECOMMENDED VIDEO RESOURCES .................................................................................................................. 11
2.4 REFERENCES TO CONTENT ................................................................................................................................ 11
2.5 MOBILE LITERACY COURSE CONTENT ................................................................................................................. 12

3. THE DIGITAL AGE AND 4TH INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION ................................................................................ 13

3.1 WHAT IS THE 4TH INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION......................................................................................................... 13
3.2 4IR TECHNOLOGIES EXPLAINED ........................................................................................................................ 14
3.3 EXAMPLES OF TECHNOLOGIES OF THE FOURTH INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION ................................................................ 14

4. UNDERSTANDING & MANAGING MOBILE CONNECTIONS .......................................................................... 17

4.1 INTERNET CONNECTIVITY ................................................................................................................................. 17
4.2 HOW TO SET-UP INTERNET AT YOUR HOME........................................................................................................ 18

5. UNDERSTANDING MOBILE APPLICATIONS .............................................................................................. 22

5.1 WHAT IS A MOBILE APPLICATION (MOBILE APP) ................................................................................................. 22
5.2 HOW TO DOWNLOAD A MOBILE APPLICATION...................................................................................................... 22

6. USING MOBILE APPLICATIONS TO ORGANISE YOUR LIFE ........................................................................... 24

6.1 CREATING A GOOGLE ACCOUNT (GMAIL) ........................................................................................................... 24
6.2 USING EMAIL PROFESSIONALLY ........................................................................................................................ 26
6.3 USING ONLINE STORAGE ................................................................................................................................. 26
6.4 USING GOOGLE CALENDAR .............................................................................................................................. 27
6.5 USING GOOGLE MAPS .................................................................................................................................... 28
6.6 USING ONLINE BANKING ................................................................................................................................. 29
6.7 ONLINE SHOPPING ......................................................................................................................................... 30

7. USING APPLICATIONS FOR WORK READINESS ......................................................................................... 32

7.1 USING GOOGLE DOCS TO PREPARE DOCUMENTS................................................................................................. 32
7.2 USING ONLINE/VIRTUAL MEETINGS APPLICATIONS .............................................................................................. 33
7.3 CREATING A DIGITAL PROFILE ........................................................................................................................... 34

8. USING APPLICATIONS FOR SELF-DEVELOPMENT ...................................................................................... 36

8.1 USING GOOGLE SEARCH SERVICES TO IMPROVE KNOWLEDGE ................................................................................. 36
8.2 ACCESSING GOVERNMENT INFORMATION AND SERVICES: ..................................................................................... 38
8.3 USING YOUTUBE VIDEO SERVICES TO ACCESS KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS .................................................................... 38
9. UNDERSTANDING CYBERSECURITY ....................................................................................................... 40
9.1 WHAT IS CYBERSECURITY ................................................................................................................................. 40
9.2 CYBERCRIMES AWARENESS ............................................................................................................................... 40
9.3 AUTHENTICATION AND PASSWORD STRENGTHENING ............................................................................................ 40
9.4 PUBLIC WI-FI CONNECTION RISKS ..................................................................................................................... 41
9.5 CYBERBULLYING ............................................................................................................................................. 41
1 INTRODUCTION TO THE MOBILE LITERACY COURSE

1.1. Mobile Literacy Course Background Information

The United Nation Human Rights Council has declared access to digital skills literacy a human right
1
. This resolution calls upon all governments of the world to ensure that human rights are respected
and represented in the digital space. The speed at which digital technology continues to advance is
more rapid than any other innovation in our history. In only two decades digital technologies such
as smartphones have reached more than 50 percent of the developing world’s population 2.
Transforming societies, by enhancing connectivity, financial inclusion, and access to services.
Technology can be a great equaliser.

South Africa is a mobile first country. Like other countries throughout the African region, a significant
number of people have access to smartphones but with limited or no accesses to computers
especially in rural, semi-rural and township communities. Nevertheless, limited access to digital
devices and the Internet prevents citizens to access opportunities that can help facilitate their social,
financial, and other forms of development such as to learn basic digital skills in order to improve their
lives and advance careers.

Digital literacy refers to the necessary competencies and skills required by individuals to take part in
today’s digitally driven society 3. The competencies are important as most of society is driven by
online communication or correspondence, access to technological devices and social media. Having
the necessary basic digital literacy skills is critical to work, live and be a productive member of the
modern world.

In order to better understand the need for digital skills, Prof Walter Claassen alongside the Western
Cape CoLab developed the Digital Skills Framework One (DSF One) to address the basic digital
skills individuals require to perform the necessary tasks in a digital driven society. This framework
was designed in a South African context to pinpoint the necessary digital skills required by South
African citizens. The researcher stated that digital skills should be applicable and relative to specific
areas of life 4. These specific areas can be defined as digital dimensions 5. The digital dimensions
are as follows: digital literacy skills, user digital skills, ICT practitioner skills and e-leadership skills.
For the purpose of this guide, we will focus on basic digital skills and user skills.

Figure 1, under the heading User digital skills, the user skills are highlighted from number 1 to 6. The
user skills include managing and handling information raw data and digital content, online
communication skills, online content creation, safety and security problem solving and digital
transaction skills 6. While the basic digital skills necessary to perform the tasks are shown right below
each task. It should be noted that certain digital skills have levels of difficulty. In order to illustrate
the levels, Claassen incorporated The Digital Competence Framework for Austria – DigComp
(2021), the framework grouped the levels of difficulty into groups 7. The groups are as follows,
Foundation skills (A-B), Intermediate skills (C-D), Advanced skills (E-F) and Highly specialised digital
skills (G-H). Each group/dimension of digital skills all have levels of proficiency. Each digital skill was
aligned to the level of proficiency an individual requires to use the digital skill. For example, browsing
the internet is a relatively simple task, therefore it is considered a foundational skill.

pg. 4
1. United Nation Human Rights Council Resolution, (2018, 04 July). The promotion, protection and enjoyment of human rights on
the Internet.
2. Jacob Poushter, (2016). Pew Research Report. Smartphone Ownership and Internet Usage Continues to Climb in Emerging
Economies.https://www.pewresearch.org/global/2016/02/22/smartphone-ownership-and-internet-usage-continues-to-climb-in-
emerging-economies/
3. Western Sydney University, (2020, 26 November). What is Digital Literacy?
https://www.westernsydney.edu.au/studysmart/home/study_skills_guides/digital_literacy/what_is_digital_literacy
4, 5, 6. Claassen, W. (2021). Digital Skills Framework One. Unpublished framework. CoLab for e-Inclusion and Social Innovation.
7. Republic of Austria. Federal Ministry for Digital and Economic Affairs. (2021). The Digital Competence Framework for Austria –
DigComp 2.2 AT. Vienna, 7, July.
Figure 1: Digital skills Framework One (Source: Claassen, 2021:1)

pg. 5
Purpose of the Mobile Literacy course

The Mobile Literacy course was designed to fill the lack of digital skills gap by focusing on stimulating
interest in acquiring basic digital skills using mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets
ensuring that communities with no computer infrastructures do not miss opportunities the fourth
industrial revolution (4IR) and digital technology presents.

The Western Cape CoLab developed this course to enhance the level of understanding and
competency of targeted groups with respect to the use of mobile technology (e.g., smartphones and
tablets). The key reasons for focusing on this technology include:

• Smartphones and tablets are essentially portable computers

• Smartphones and tablets are accessible to a large and growing percentage of the population
• Smartphones are perhaps the only computers that many people have access to
• Modern network services allow for continued network connection when moving about; and
• Combining the use of Smartphones with Mobile Network services, means that each of us can
have resources at hand to meet our daily needs, anywhere and anytime.

This course is designed to function as

• An introduction to the basic concepts and principles of using mobile (digital) technology.
• To inspire confidence in using mobile application in conducting day to day personal and work
activities.
• This course is presented as a one-day short course with information, sharing videos and
practical exercise (allow a total of 6-8 notional hours).

1.2. Target Audience

This course aims to assist and empower citizens by exposing them to the opportunities of using
internet and mobile technologies (e.g., smartphones and tablets) purposefully in their own socio-
economic contexts. Potential participants should be exposed to the basic use of mobile devices but
may have concerns regarding their understanding and competency in using mobile devices and
application services on the internet. The target audience for this course includes pupils, youth,
women & general community members in townships, semi-rural and rural communities. No
qualification or previous experience is required for this course. The audience must have access to
or use smartphone and have interest in using technology to better their lives. The course can be
dynamically adapted during presentation to address various socio-economic sectors including
business, sports, arts, culture, scholars, teachers etc.

pg. 6
1.3. Course Outcomes

No Topic Digital skills gained (based on DSF

One)
1 Conceptualise the advent of the Digital Age Problem Solving
and 4th Industrial Revolution • What is the 4th Industrial Revolution?
• What is the Forth Industrial Revolution • 4th Industrial Technologies
and how it affects their lives?

2 Understanding and Managing Mobile Communication and collaboration

Connections • Connecting Your Phone to Wifi Hotspot
• Discuss concepts mobile devices and • Connecting Your Home to the Internet
applications
• Discuss concepts related to the internet
connectivity

3 Understanding Mobile Applications Transacting

• Describe concepts related to • Understanding Mobile Applications
Smartphone applications

4 Using Mobile Applications to Organise Your Communication & Collaboration

Life • Google Account
• Understand how applications can be • Online Storage
used to help with day-to-day activities • Google Calendar
and challenges • Google maps
Transacting
• Online Banking Applications
• Online Shopping
• Online Application/ Registrations
Digital Content Creating
• Creating Digital Profile
• Online Meeting
• Using Google Docs

5 Using Mobile Application for Work Work & Learning

Readiness • Using Email Professional communication
• Introduction to mobile apps • Online Meeting & conferencing
• Instructions to download mobile apps • Using Google Docs to prepare and share
documents

6 Using Mobile Application for Self- Handling Information, Data & Digital Content
Development • Using Google for Information Search
• Using Google applications to create an • Using YouTube to access educational
online profile materials

7 Understanding Cybersecurity Digital Safety & Security

• Introduction to cybersecurity • Cybersecurity Awareness
• Creating awareness about cybersecurity • Password Strengthening
measures • Public Wi-Fi Connection Risks
• Cyberbullying Impacts

pg. 7
On completing this course participants should understand:

• What is the Forth Industrial Revolution and how it affects their lives?
• Concepts mobile devices and applications
• Concepts related to the internet connectivity
• Concepts related to Smartphone applications
• How applications can be used to help with day-to-day activities and challenges

On completing this course, public participants should be able to:

• Understand and manage network connections and

• Understand how to create digital profiles
• Use applications to organize personal and work information
• Use applications to develop a professional and work-reediness
• Use applications to create basic administrative documents
• Use applications for digital communication and online conferencing
• Use applications to conduct online banking and make financial decisions
• Use applications to conduct online shopping
• Use applications to conduct online applications, registration and access key information
• Use applications for self-education
• Understand basic cybersecurity threats and how to prevent falling victim to basic cyber

pg. 8
1.4. Digital Skills Framework One Alignment with Course Outcomes
The table below illustrate how Mobile Literacy course exercises align with the Digital Skills Framework categories and objectives.

Figure 2: Digital skills Framework One amended (Source: Claassen, 2021:1; Nhlapo, 2022)
pg. 9
1.5. Course Assessment Approach
• Participants in the face-to-face facilitated sessions are to be encouraged to engage in
discussions and complete all practical exercises during their sessions. The facilitator will
assess understanding during interactions. Based on observations and participants’ feedback
future session delivery can be improved.
• Participants undertaking the course online (via a dedicated Learning Management System)
will be required to go through all compulsory activities and complete all quizzes and exercises
to reach course completion stage.

At the end of each respective course, feedback forms are to be completed. These serve as formative
assessments to be used for course revision and enhancement. Certificates of Attendance are
distributed to all delegates via email.

1.6. Course Materials

Course materials are provided in a digital form. These materials can be accessed from Smartphones,
or from Personal Computers using an Internet Browser application. Participants may download and
print as required. The material includes:

• Student Guide or Manual

• Lessons Videos (available on the Digital Skills Platform)
• Online lesson supporting resources or referral URL links

pg. 10
2 COURSE RESOURCES AND CONTENT

2.1 Reading Required

The following references point to required content to be read.
• This Guide/ Manual
• Online supporting content

2.2 Recommended Reading

The following references point to readings that are recommended but optional:

• Glossary of IT Terms https://www.dataprise.com/it-glossary

• 99 Terms You Need to Know When You’re New To Tech https://skillcrush.com/blog/99-
tech-terms/
• 4IR Revolution https://www.pwc.com/us/en/library/4ir-ready.html
• The Impact of Digital Technologies https://www.un.org/en/un75/impact-digital-technologies
• How to find out what Google, Facebook and Microsoft are collecting on you
https://www.pcmech.com/article/how-to-find-out-what-data-google-facebook-and-microsoft-
are-collecting-on-you/
• 6 Links that will show what Google knows about you https://medium.com/productivity-in-
the-cloud/6-links-that-will-show-you-what-google-knows-about-you-f39b8af9decc
• Setting up home connection tips https://www.online-tech-tips.com/computer-tips/how-to-
set-up-internet-at-your-home-for-beginners/

2.3 Recommended Video Resources

The following are the course video resources

• 4IR https://youtu.be/GqdHeWKUo6I
• 4IR Technologies Explained https://youtu.be/Zv6UK96e6lY
• Conneting to Internet https://youtu.be/LdipiqMwvXg
• Understanding Apps https://youtu.be/fH1ciDI6gY4
• How to create a Gmail Account https://youtu.be/mYLjEkbuFR8
• Google Drive https://youtu.be/f6wlvFgieoc
• Google Calender https://youtu.be/HGWOe_xtzEU
• Google Maps https://youtu.be/8TQxTrFQXRY
• Google Docs https://youtu.be/LNBk4rTRM-s

2.4 References to content

• Dube, R. (2021). How to set up internet at your home for beginners. Online Tech Tips.
https://www.online-tech-tips.com/computer-tips/how-to-set-up-internet-at-your-home-for-
beginners/
pg. 11
 • Google. (n.d). Create a Gmail account. Gmail help.
• Google. (n.d). How to video conference with Google Meet. Google Meet.
• Marr, B. (2020). Tech Trends in Practice: The 25 Technologies that are Driving the 4th
Industrial Revolution.
• Price Waterhouse Coopers. (2017). Top 10 4IR Technologies for the Earth.
https://www.pwc.co.uk/sustainability-climate-change/assets/innovation-for-the-
earth.pdf#515
• Shukla, A. (n.d.). Society, Governance & The Fourth Industrial Revolution. Ank Aha.
https://www.ankaha.com/4ir/

2.5 Mobile Literacy Course Content

Seven topics will be covered to help you achieve the learning outcomes of this course. It is important
to study each of these sections to ensure that you expand your knowledge in the subject.

Section 1 The Digital Age and 4th Industrial Revolution

Section 2 Understanding and Managing Mobile Connections
Section 3 Understanding Mobile Applications
Section 4 Using Mobile Applications to Organise Your Life
Section 5 Using Mobile Application for Work Readiness
Section 6 Using Mobile Application for Self-Development
Section 7 Understanding Cybersecurity

pg. 12
 3. THE DIGITAL AGE AND 4TH INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION
This section focuses on giving a brief explanation on what the Fourth Industrial
Revolution is including 4IR Technologies
Section Participants will get a general understanding of what is 4IR and how it affects
Overview their lives. The benefit of gaining this understanding is the reduction of concern
relating to misunderstandings or uncertainty associated with digital technology,
and how it benefits human lives.
Time Estimate 15-20 minutes

3.1 What is the 4th Industrial Revolution

The Fourth Industrial Revolution, 4IR, or Industry 4.0, conceptualizes rapid change to technology,
industries, and societal patterns and processes in the 21st century due to increasing interconnectivity
and smart automation. The Fourth Industrial Revolution represents a fundamental change in the way
we live, work and relate to one another.

The speed, breadth and depth of this revolution is forcing us to rethink how countries develop, how
organisations create value and even what it means to be human. The Fourth Industrial Revolution
is about more than just technology-driven change; it is an opportunity to help everyone, including
leaders, policymakers and people from all income groups and nations, to harness converging
technologies in order to create an inclusive, human-centred future. The real opportunity is to look
beyond technology and find ways to give the greatest number of people the ability to positively impact
their families, organisations, and communities.

• The First Industrial Revolution occurred at the end of the 18th century, it used water and
steam power to mechanize production.
• The Second Industrial Revolution, at the start of the 20th century, used electric power to
create mass production.
• The Third Industrial Revolution, in the 1960s, used electronics and information technology to
automate production.
• Fourth Industrial Revolution, today, is building on the Third, the digital revolution that has
been occurring since the middle of the last century. It is characterized by a fusion of
technologies that is blurring the lines between the physical, digital, and biological spheres.

Figure 3: Industrial Revolutions (Source: Shukla: n.d)

pg. 13
Challenges and opportunities

Like the revolutions that preceded it, the Fourth Industrial Revolution has the potential to raise global
income levels and improve the quality of life for populations around the world. To date, those who
have gained the most from it have been consumers able to afford and access the digital world;
technology has made possible new products and services that increase the efficiency and pleasure
of our personal lives. Ordering a cab, booking a flight, buying a product, making a payment, listening
to music, watching a film, or playing a game—any of these can now be done remotely.

Watch the lesson video: 4IR on the DSP

Lesson video link: https://youtu.be/GqdHeWKUo6I

3.2 4IR Technologies Explained

All revolutions have benefits, challenges, and opportunities. In the case of the Fourth Industrial
Revolution, the advantages are evident: increased productivity, efficiency and quality in
processes, greater safety for workers by reducing jobs in dangerous environments, enhanced
decision making with data-based tools, improved competitiveness by developing customised
products that satisfy human needs, etc.

3.3 Examples of Technologies of The Fourth Industrial Revolution

“Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning

Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning refer to the ability of machines to learn and act
intelligently meaning they can make decisions, carry out tasks and even predict future outcomes
based on what they learn from the data. AI will transform our world and how we live in it. It's already
used in our everyday lives from Google searches to powering Amazon's product recommendations
and the personalized suggestions you get from Facebook or Netflix accounts. AI and machine
learning are also the foundation of which many other technology trends are built. AI gives machines
the ability to carry out a wide range of human-like processes, such as seeing (facial recognition),
writing (chatbots), and speaking (Suri). AI will infiltrate even more of our lives as the ability for
machines to act intelligently gets better and better.

The Internet of Things (IoT)

The Internet of Things (IoT) refers to the increasing number of everyday devices and objects that
are connected to the internet and gather and transmit data. While the first smart device many of us
were exposed to was a smartphone, we now have smartwatches, smart TVs and refrigerators. Today
there are 20 billion smart devices, but it is expected to grow to at least 200 billion connected devices
soon. These smart devices are responsible for an explosion of data and are rapidly changing our
world and the way we live in it. The ability of machines to connect to and share information with each
other is a key part of the IoT.

Big Data

Big Data refers to the exponential explosion in the amount of data being generated in the increasingly
digital age. Our world is full of data, more than ever before. The more data you have, the easier it is
to gain new insights and even predict what will happen in the future. By analysing masses of data
with intelligent algorithms, it's possible to spot patterns and relationships that were previously
unknown. And when you can understand the relationships between data points, you can better
pg. 14
 predict future outcomes and make smarter decisions about what to do next. Augmented insights
that can extract insights automatically will give organisations unprecedented insights from their data.

Blockchain

A blockchain is a kind of highly secure database, a way of storing information. In today's digital age,
storing, authenticating, and protecting data presents serious challenges for many organizations.
Blockchain technology, a form of open, distributed ledger, promises a practical and super secure
solution to this problem. As a result, blockchain is an increasingly attractive tool for industries such
as banking and insurance. It will transform how banks operate and how we keep our possessions.
Bitcoin, the well know cryptocurrency, is one example of blockchain technology invention.

Cloud Computing

Cloud computing means storing and processing data in a data centre via a network that gives people
and organisations the ability to store massive amounts of data and process it in nearly real-time.
Edge computing refers to the processing of data on devices such as smartphones. Cloud service
providers such as Google, Dropbox and Microsoft allow individuals and organisations to host all vital
IT infrastructure in their cloud rather than within an organization's digital walls reducing overhead
costs to maintain and operate individual systems, software and data. Edge sits at the other end of
the scale—rather than far away in remote data centres, edge computing happens up-close-and-
personal on the frontline of business operations. Rather than send every piece of information
collected by cameras, scanners, handheld terminals, or sensors to the cloud to be processed, edge
devices carry out some or all of the processing themselves, at the source where the data is collected.

Robots & Cobots

Today’s robots can be defined as intelligent machines that can understand and respond to their
environment and perform routine or complex tasks autonomously. In this data-driven age, it’s the
intelligence and ability to act autonomously that defines robots and separates them from other
machines. The rise of collaborative robots, or cobots, is the latest generation of robotic systems
designed to work alongside humans as robotic colleagues. Cobots enhance the work that humans
do and interact safely and easily with the human workforce providing extra robotic muscle in the
workplace.

Autonomous Vehicles

An autonomous vehicle, be it a car, truck, ship, or other vehicle, is one that can sense what's going
on around it and operate without human involvement. Every major car manufacturer is investing
heavily in self-driving technology, and self-driving vehicles could change the face of our cities. They
potentially will reduce pollution, drastically improve the daily commute, and more.

Quantum Computing

Quantum computing will completely redefine what a computer is and could give us computing power
that is millions or trillions of times more powerful than supercomputers today. Although conventional
binary computing is likely to be all we will need for many tasks we carry out on computers in the near
future, incomprehensibly quick quantum computing is likely to have a variety of applications in fields
such as artificial intelligence and decoding complex structures such as genomic information (Marr,
2020).”

pg. 15
 Figure 4: Top 10 4IR Technologies for the Earth (Source: Price Waterhouse Coopers,
2017:7)

Watch the lesson video: 4IR Explained on the DSP

Lesson video link: https://youtu.be/Zv6UK96e6lY

pg. 16
 4. UNDERSTANDING & MANAGING MOBILE CONNECTIONS
This section discusses internet connectivity
Section
Participants will be exposed to methods to connect their devices to internet,
Overview
managing connection and setting up internet connection in their household
Time Estimate 20 minutes

4.1 Internet Connectivity

The term "Internet connectivity" refers to the way people are hooked up to the Internet, and may
include dial-up telephone lines, always-on broadband connections, and wireless devices.

Among these, wireless access to the Internet is the latest (as of the early 2000s) had only reached
a small group of users. While Broadband connections, including DSL (digital subscriber line), ADSL
(asymmetrical DSL), and cable modems, were becoming more widespread.

Common Types of Internet Connection

• Mobile Data: Telecommunication companies such as Vodacom, MTN, Cell C, Telkom
offer voice plans or data packages cell phone and smartphones to allow users to access
the internet.
• Wi-Fi Hotspots: Wi-Fi Hotspots are sites that offer Internet access over a wireless local
area network (WLAN) by way of a router that then connects to an Internet service provider.
Hotspots utilize Wi-Fi technology, which allows electronic devices to connect to the
Internet or exchange data wirelessly through radio waves. Hotspots can be phone-based
or free-standing, commercial or free to the public.
• Dial-Up: Dial-up connections require users to link their phone line to a computer to access
the Internet. This particular type of connection, also referred to as analog—does not permit
users to make or receive phone calls through their home while using the Internet. Now
more outdated, a dial-up connection used to be among the most common Internet
connection type.
• Broadband & Fibre: This high-speed Internet connection is provided through either cable
or telephone companies. Is one of the fastest options available, broadband Internet uses
multiple data channels to send large quantities of information. The term broadband is
shorthand for broad bandwidth.
• Fiber-optic internet, commonly called “fiber,” is a form of broadband connection that can
reach speeds of up to 940 Megabits per second (Mbps), with low lag time. The technology
uses fiber-optic cable, which amazingly can send data as fast as about 70% the speed of
light.

Figure 5: (Source: Nhlapo, 2022)

pg. 17
4.2 How to Set-up Internet at Your Home
Whether you have moved into your new home or installing connectivity for the first time in your home,
consider this your step-by-step guide to set up internet at home as quickly as possible.

Step 1 Choose Your Internet Services Provider (ISP)

The first step in getting internet access where you live is choosing the right internet service provider
(ISP). In most locations, you usually have a few options, but often only one company is available for
each option. This may not be the case in metro areas where there’s more competition.

The following are the types of internet service providers you have to
choose from.

Digital Subscriber Line (DSL): This is provided through

your local phone service company.

Cable Broadband: Typically offered through the local

cable company.

Fiber Optic Broadband: Offered by your cable company

and other local internet providers.

Wireless: Usually provided by cellular phone companies.

Dedicated leased line: A fixed bandwidth connection

dedicated to only your internet connection. Usually very
expensive and used by larger companies for their office
internet connections.

Figure 6: (Source: Nhlapo, 2022)

One way of finding available ISP in your area that provide the most affordable and stable internet
services is by conducting a Google search for “internet service provider” and finding listings of
companies you can contact. This search will show you all ISPs in your area as well as the types of
internet access they offer. Once you’ve decided which type you need, contact the ISP and order the
service.

Step 2 Install and Set-up Router/Modem

Depending on the type of internet service you order, the router you’re provided can be slightly
different. Even though this device is referred to as a “router”, it’s technically known as a “modem”.

Router technologies used in DSL modems include ADSL or VDSL, which are just data transfer
technologies that work over phone lines. So, the input ports on these modems will include a phone
port that you plug into the phone jack in your home.

If you’ve signed up for a fiber optic internet connection, the modem will include GPON data transfer
technology.

Cable modems include coaxial input ports that you plug into the broadband cable jack in your home.
Satellite modems typically have several antennas to enable communication back and forth from
overhead satellites.

pg. 18
Some ISPs may allow you to purchase your own modem. While other ISPs require you to use their
specific supplied brand of modem and include the monthly fee for it in your bill.

If you don’t know anything about modem/router technologies, you can ask your ISP to provide you
with the router that they know works with their internet service.

Once your modem is delivered, setting it up for your home internet

connection is very simple.

a) Place the modem near the port in your home that provides the
internet service. This might be the cable outlet, the phone
outlet, or near a window in the case of satellite internet.
b) Connect the phone, fiber optic, or cable port on your modem to
the appropriate outlet in your home.
c) Use the included power adapter to connect your modem to a
nearby power outlet.
d) Once your modem is powered on, you may need to call your
ISP to confirm that they can connect to your modem and that it
has an active internet connection.

Figure 7: (Source: Nhlapo, 2022)

Step 3 Connect Your Wi-Fi Router to the Modem

Now that you have an internet modem in your home that’s connected to the internet, your only
remaining task is to connect to that internet connection with all your devices.

There are a few options, depending on the modem type. If the modem is Wi-Fi enabled, then it’s
also a WiFi router and it’ll produce an internal Wi-Fi network that you can connect to with devices in
your home. If it isn’t, then you’ll need to purchase a secondary Wi-Fi router to connect to your
modem. Don’t let the ports on the back of these devices scare you. Connecting everything together
is actually fairly easy.

Figure 8: How to set up internet at home (for beginners). (Source: Dube, 2021)

pg. 19
 Use the following steps to connect your modem to your router and enable
your in-home WiFi network.

a) Connect an ethernet cable from the Internet port on your

modem to the Internet port on your WiFi router.
b) Power up the DSL/Cable/Satellite modem and wait until all
lights are on and the Internet light is on.
c) Power up the WiFi router and wait until the Internet light is on.
You should also see the WiFi light flashing quickly.
d) Now your in-home WiFi network is ready.

Figure 9: (Source: Nhlapo, 2022)

Before you move on to the next step, make sure you secure your WiFi router. This will also prevent
neighbours from accessing your network without your permission. When you set up your WiFi
network password, make sure to make a note of it for later when you want to connect your devices.

Step 4 Connect Your Devices to the Internet

Now there are two main ways you can connect each device to your new internet connection. You
can connect to the Wi-Fi wireless network, or you can use an ethernet cable to connect directly to
your router.

• Connecting using ethernet cable

To connect using an ethernet cable, just plug one end of the cable into the ethernet port on your
computer or laptop. Plug the other end into one of the network ports on the back of your router

Typically, these network ports are highlighted in yellow. They’re also commonly numbered. Avoid
plugging into the port labelled as “Internet” because that one should only be connected to your
internet modem.

Once you are connected via ethernet, your computer or laptop will instantly have an internet
connection.

pg. 20
 • Connecting to wireless network

To connect to your new WiFi network with a PC, laptop,

smartphone or tablet just select the wireless icon in your
device. This will display all available WiFi networks to
connect to. Just select Connect, enter the network
password.

To connect to a Wifi network with a Mac, select the WiFi

icon in the menu bar, select Turn WiFi on, and select the
WiFi network to connect to.

At this point, your home should have a working internet

connection and an active WiFi network to connect all your
internet-enabled devices to.

Watch the lesson video: Conneting to Internet on the Digital Skills Plartform

Video link: https://youtu.be/LdipiqMwvXg

pg. 21
 5. UNDERSTANDING MOBILE APPLICATIONS
This section focuses on giving a brief explanation on mobile applications
Section technology
Overview Participants will be exposed to the concept of mobile apps and how to install
app into their devices.
Time Estimate 20 minutes

A smartphone nowadays can get you through all kinds of things. Much of the capabilities of
smartphones today are owed, in part, to mobile apps which together with mobile hardware have
made the modern world much more convenient.

5.1 What is a Mobile Application (Mobile App)

A mobile application, most commonly referred to as an app, is a type of application software
designed to run on a mobile device, such as a smartphone or tablet computer. Mobile applications
frequently serve to provide users with similar services to those accessed on Personal Computers
(PCs). The simplest mobile apps take PC-based applications and port them to a mobile device. A
mobile application also may be known as an app, web app, online app, iPhone app or smartphone
app.

Apps are divided into two broad categories: native apps and web apps.

Native apps are built for a specific mobile operating system, usually iOS or Android. Native apps
enjoy better performance and a more finely tuned user interface (UI), and usually need to pass a
much stricter development and quality assurance process before they are released.

Web apps are used in HTML5 or CSS and require minimum device memory since they’re run through
a browser. The user is redirected on a specific web page, and all information is saved on a server-
based database. Web apps require a stable connection to be used.

There are several types of apps currently available.

Gaming apps: The equivalent of computer video games, they are among the most popular types of
apps. They account for one-third of all app downloads and three-fourths of all consumer spending.

Productivity apps: These focus on improving business efficiency by easing various tasks such as
sending emails, tracking work progress, booking hotels, and much more.

Lifestyle and entertainment apps: Increasingly popular, these encompass many aspects of
personal lifestyle and socialization such as dating, communicating on social media, as well as
sharing (and watching) videos. Some of the most widely known apps such as Netflix, Facebook or
TikTok fall into this category.

5.2 How to download a mobile application

Downloading a mobile application has never been easier. To download an app on your mobile,
simply go to the app marketplace that fits with your mobile device’s hardware/operating system and
proceed from there, for example Google Play Store for Android devices, Apple App Store for
iOS/Apple devices.

pg. 22
Note that some listed apps might require your payment information or an account for download since
those are paid apps, which is why it’s recommended that you should create an account in the store
and set up a payment method beforehand.

When you purchased your mobile device, it already had a number of applications pre-installed. Over
time you will download applications on your mobile device by accessing your application store.

Some application may be useful, others not. As a general-purpose computer, your mobile device is
capable of running applications to meet everyone’s different needs. Someone else’s need and yours
will differ.

You should learn to manage the applications installed on your mobile device. This will save your
phone memory, reduce data usage that is consumed by application updates, and make your device
easier to interact with if only applications you use are shown on your display.
Your mobile device is a bit like a multi-purpose pocketknife. While it offers many features, you will
probably only use a few of them. You can use your mobile device to substitute for many other tools.
It can be a calculator, a diary, a calendar, a notebook, a radio etc. But more than that, it can go well
beyond the general function of these standalone tools, by integrating their capabilities.

Applications to Help You Stay Organised

Activity Application Benefit
Manage your Time Calendar Remember and Plan for meetings and events
Manage your Contacts Contacts Be able to reach people when needed. One record
for use by Email, WhatsApp, Phone, SMS, Maps etc.
Keep Records Notes Don’t lose important information, meeting notes,
discussion records
Manage Lists Notes Plan for Shopping, Travel – Don’t forget anything

Scanning Documents Scanning Keep copies of important documents, contracts,

Application warranties, personal documents
Protect Your Files and Online File Be able to access important files and documents
Document Storage even if you lose your device
Sharing Information Share Applications can share content with each other. Use
and Documents Feature WhatsApp or Email to share photos and documents

Figure 10: (Nhlapo, 2022)

Watch the lesson video: Understanding Apps on the DSP

Video link: https://youtu.be/fH1ciDI6gY4

pg. 23
 6. USING MOBILE APPLICATIONS TO ORGANISE YOUR LIFE
This section discusses general applications to help you organise your life.
Section
Participants will be exposed to applications that can be used to help with day-
overview
to-day activities
Time Estimate 90 minutes

As more and more applications are developed and enhanced, it is not that easy for most general
users to understand how to effectively use these applications to organise or improve their lives.

6.1 Creating a Google Account (Gmail)

When you create a Gmail account, Google automatically gives you a Google account which grant
you access to dozens of free Google apps and services.

You can create a Gmail account using a web browser on your computer or on the mobile app. No
matter where you create your account, you'll be able to access it from any of your web browsers or
devices.

pg. 24
 Exercise One

This is an individual activity

On your mobile phone follow the below steps to create a Gmail Account:

Step 1: Open the Gmail app and tap the account icon
Step 2: Tap Add account
Step 3: On the Add account screen, tap Google
Step 4: On the Google Sign in screen, tap Create account and choose For myself

Step 5: Enter your first and last name. Tap Next

Step 6: Enter your birthday and gender, then tap Next
Step 7: Choose one of the premade Gmail addresses or tap Create your own Gmail
address to make your own unique address. Tap Next

Step 8: Create a strong password for your new Google account and then tap Next
Step 9: You can add a phone number that can be used to recover your account if you
forget your password, and with other Google services (like using it for video calls with
Google Meet). If you want to do this, enter a mobile phone number and then click Yes,
I'm in. Otherwise, click Skip.
Step 10: If you added a phone number, enter the verification code that's texted to your
number.
Step 11: Finally, click I agree after reviewing Google's terms of service.

Watch the lesson video: How to create a Gmail Account on the DSP
Video link https://youtu.be/mYLjEkbuFR8
pg. 25
6.2 Using Email Professionally
Some basic tips for using Email services:
• Add yourself to your own Contact Database with all your correct details
• Add a signature to all your emails that includes all your details
• Ensure your contacts names are correctly spelt, as their names will appear when email
addressed to them. Nobody likes their names to be wrong, it is a sign of disrespect.
• Use To: address field for people you expect a response from
• Use CC: address field (Carbon Copy) for people you wish to inform, but do not expect a
response from
• Use Blind Carbon Copy (BCC) address field when you do not want a person’s email address
to be shared with others. This is important for marketing emails where you should not give
customer information to others without their permission.
• Always have a Subject. If you don’t, people won’t know why to open your email, and many
email system discard emails without subjects, as they may be considered as spam emails.
• Emails are ideal for sharing legal and business information and records. Emails are kept and
can be referred to in future correspondence.

In short, you can send emails to anyone whose email address you know. They can decide whether
to open it and what to do with it. They can ignore it, delete it reply to it.
How well you use email will determine the nature of responses you get. Be courteous, professional
and dignified in your communication. Your emails can be blocked, automatically deleted, flagged as
spam if you do not use email effectively.

6.3 Using Online Storage

By having a Google account, you get 15 GB of space in your Drive free of charge. You can use to
store documents, photos, videos.

Exercise Two

This is an individual activity

On your mobile phone follow the below steps to access and use Google Drive:

Step1: Open the app: On your Android device, find and open the Google Drive app

Step 2: Upload or Create Files: You can upload files from your phone or tablet or create files in
Google Drive.

Step 3: Share and Organise File: You can share files or folders, so other people can view, edit,
or comment on them.

pg. 26
Benefits of using online storage:

• Store your files online and access offline

• You can share file from your Google Drive
• Scan and upload documents into online storage account
• Access your Google Drive from any device
• What you store on your mobile device, you can see on a PC
• Make someone else see the specific files

Watch the lesson video: Google Drive on the DSP

Video link https://youtu.be/f6wlvFgieoc

6.4 Using Google Calendar

There are many tools to help you organize your life, but one of the easiest to access and use is
Google Calendar. With options for setting specific dates and times for events and reminders,
organising daily tasks, notifications sent to your email, and the ability to keep others in the loop about
what you’re doing, it’s a resourceful tool with lots of features.

Getting Google Calendar

To be able to use Google Calendar, you need to have a Google Account. Google Calendar is one
of the free apps and services you get by having a Google account. You can create calendars to keep
track of different types of events.

Exercise Three

This is an individual activity

On your mobile phone follow the below steps to set up a new calendar event:

Step 1: On your Android phone or tablet, visit the Google Calendar page on Google
Play then Tap Install to install Google Calendar in your device.
Step 2: Once the calendar is installed, open the app and sign in with your Google
Account.
Step 3: On the left, next to "Other calendars," click Add other calendars Create
new calendar.
Step 4: Add a name and description for your calendar.
Step 5: Click Create calendar.
Step 6: If you want to share your calendar, click on it in the left bar, then select Share
with specific people
.

pg. 27
Benefits of using Google Calendar:

• Automatically get events from Gmail on your calendar.

• Share your calendar with others.
• Get notifications for upcoming events.
• Sync your Google Calendar across multiple devices. Google lets you sync your calendar
across multiple devices, so you'll never miss an appointment.
• Access multiple calendars in one place.

Watch the lesson video: Google Calender on the DSP

Video link https://youtu.be/HGWOe_xtzEU

6.5 Using Google Maps

You can use Google Maps on your phone to search for places using your voice or by typing. You
can view your current location on the map, explore and select places to go, on the map. Google
maps will show you directions and use real-time traffic information to find the best route to your
destination.

Other benefits of using Google Maps

• You can see traffic info, public transit options and local places of interest in just a few
seconds.
• With voice navigation, you’ll hear traffic alerts, where to turn, which lane to use, and if there's
a better route.

pg. 28
 Exercise Four

This is an individual activity

On your phone turn on your GPS and let Google Maps access your current location and audio
speakers then follow the below steps to start using Maps:

Step 1: On your Android phone or tablet, open the Google Maps app icon (or got Google
Play to search and install Google Maps).
Step 2: Once opened search for a place or tap it on the map.
Step 3: In the bottom left, tap Directions. If you touch and hold the button instead, you’ll
start navigation and can skip steps 4-6.
Step 4: Optional: To add additional destinations, go to the top right and tap
More Add stop. You can add up to 9 stops. When you are finished, tap Done.
Step 5: Choose one of the following options:

• Driving:

• Transit:
• Walking:
• Rides:
• Cycling:

Step 6: If other routes are available, they will be shown in grey on the map. To follow an
alternate route, tap the grey line.
Step 7: To start navigation, tap Start . If you see “Searching for GPS,” your phone is
trying to get a GPS signal. For example, you might be in or near a tunnel, parking garage,
or other location where there’s no GPS signal.
Step 8: To stop or cancel navigation, go to the bottom left and tap Close .

Watch the lesson video: Google Maps on the DSP

Video link https://youtu.be/8TQxTrFQXRY

6.6 Using Online Banking

Online banking also known as mobile banking allows the user to manage their bank account over
the internet using a computer or mobile device.

• With online banking you can check your account balance online at any time. You can now
catch errors such as unauthorized activities (e.g., unsanctioned debit orders) quicker.
• There is a good chance that your financial institution allows you to transfer money between
accounts.
• You can also pay most of you bills online or thought the mobile app.

pg. 29
Most Major Banks have mobile banking applications which allow you to:

• Make Payments
• Send Money
• Save Money
• Buy Airtime or Electricity
• Updates Details
• And More

How is it used

Now let us demonstrate using a timebank demo account.

How do you do online banking with Tymebank demonstration, but any other banks will still be fine.

How to see your bank details:

Login to your account, the first page you will see is the home screen.
• This is where you will see your everyday account and GoalSave balances. If you ever want
to check the information Tymebank has it for you, go to menu at the top left hand side of the
screen, press profile management and then press on My details.
How to send money to a cell phone using banking app:

Different banks call it different things, FNB refers to it as eWallet, Capitec calls it Cash Send and the
one we are using TymeBank, is called SendMoney.
• You login
• Tap menu
• Choose Pay and Save, then send money.
• Type the cell phone number of the person you are sending the money to.
• Or type the Name and get the number from the contacts on your phone.
• Then enter the amount you want to send.
• If I don’t want the receiver to pay the transaction fee, you should add R4 to the total amount.
• Tap next to check all the details and follow the rest of the steps.
• The receiver will get an SMS from Banking institution with a 10-digit code. Which you will
then show to the cashier at Pick ’n Pay or Boxer till point to get his and her money.

The Benefits of online banking

Many services can be availed anywhere, anytime instead of going to the branch physically. Online
banking can also be done during holidays, which is something impossible in the case of traditional
banking. Users can make a transaction without going to the bank counter. You access your account
24/7 including the relative services. Banks also share spend overview online.

Lesson Video in production process

6.7 Online Shopping

Firstly, we will have to understand what online shopping is. Online shopping is the activity or action
of buying products or services over the internet. It means going online, landing on a seller’s website,
selecting something and arranging for its delivery. The buyer either pay for the goods or services
online with a credit or debit card, or upon delivery.

pg. 30
Benefits of online shopping

• You don’t stand in a line or queue, at cash counters to pay for the
product that you have been purchased online.
• The online store is 365 days, 24/7 so, time does not act as a barrier,
wherever the vendor and buyers are.
• To attract customers, online stores and marketers offer discounts to
customers.
• Customers can purchase items from the comfort of their own homes or
workplace.
• Shopping is made easier and convenient for the customer through the
internet.
• Online customers can track the order delivery status, tracking of
shipping is available.

Tips on online shopping safety

• Make sure the online shopping site you are using is protected before filling personal details
such as banking details.
• A protected site should have a secure sign or padlock next to the URL or web address

Lesson Video in production process

pg. 31
 7. USING APPLICATIONS FOR WORK READINESS
This section focuses on how to use applications to perform administrative tasks
Section such writing documents and digitally collaboration for work purposes.
Overview Participants will be exposed to applications that will help them perform
administrative tasks, conduct online meetings and create digital profile
Time Estimate 60 minutes

7.1 Using Google Docs to Prepare Documents

Google Docs is a free web-based application which users can use to create documents and
spreadsheets. If you are a Google doc user you can import, edit, and update documents and
spreadsheets in various fonts and file formats, combining text with formulas, lists, tables and images.

The benefits of Google Docs

• You can even use the app to save and make changes to your docs when you're offline.
• It's fully compatible with Microsoft Word.
• Add functionality with Google Chrome extensions.
• Access your work from any device.
• Automatic saving.
• It's packed with helpful features.
• It's free!

Exercise Five

This is an individual activity

On your phone follow the below steps create a Google Doc:

Step 1: Download the Google Docs, Sheet, Slide or Site app on your Android phone or tablet.
Open the Google Play app search and install Google Docs app.
Step 2: Once installed you can get started in creating a document:

• In the bottom corner, tap New .

• Next tap Choose template.
• Tap the template you want to use.
• Once you get started you can format paragraphs or font. You can even add a title, heading,
or table of contents.

Step 3: Share & work with others. You can share files and folders with people and choose whether
they can view, edit, or comment on them.

Watch the lesson video: Google Docs on the DSP

Video link https://youtu.be/LNBk4rTRM-s
Slide Number:

pg. 32
7.2 Using Online/Virtual Meetings Applications
How do virtual meetings work? Virtual meetings utilize technology that allows individuals to connect
and collaborate via video and audio, using an internet connection. It is a real-time interaction
between remotely located workers to accomplish a shared goal or plan.

Using Google Meet

Anyone with a Google Account can create an online meeting with up to 100 participants. Individuals,
businesses, schools, and other organizations can take advantage of advance feature including
meetings with up to 250 internal or external participants and live streaming to up to 100,000 viewers
within a domain.

Exercise Six

This is an individual activity

On your mobile phone follow the below steps to get started on Google Meet

• To create a new video meeting, log in to your existing Google Account or sign up for free.
• Send a link or meeting code to anyone you want to join the meeting. For the free version
of Google Meet, guests will need to create or sign into an existing Google Account to join.

• Join a meeting Tap the meeting link from the invite, enter the meeting code from
your host or call into the meeting using the dial-in number and PIN in the invite.

Features and Benefits of using Online Meet Applications

• Enjoy free video conferencing for up to 100 participants.

• Unlimited number of meetings you connect with anyone, co-workers, clients, classmates as
often as you'd like.
• Compatible across devices Google Meet works on any device.

pg. 33
 • Video and audio preview screen: After clicking your meeting code or link, you can adjust your
camera and mic and see how you look before entering the meeting. You’ll also get a preview
of who has already joined the meeting.
• Screen sharing with participants you can present you entire screen to share presentations or
collaborate on documents.
• Make meetings more engaging with live messaging to share files, links, and other messages
with participants.

Lesson Video in production process

7.3 Creating a Digital Profile

A digital profile is the sum content about a person on the Internet. A digital profile can be composed
of personal or professional information shared on public Web sites posted personally or by others.
It typically includes information about personal characteristics, behaviours, affiliations, connections,
and interactions. Having an effective digital profile allows people to connect with other like-minded
people, potential employers or partners. Rather than only meeting the people that share your function
or your desk you can meet people from across the wider world.

These days almost everyone has a digital reputation whether they want to have one or not. Many of
us create these for ourselves through social media or websites. These can be profiles can be
accessed by search engines, and people can find out more about you than you might
think. Everything we post (blogs, tweets, photos and videos, likes, links, comments, and shares)
contributes to our online reputation. So, too, does whatever other people post about us.

Most of the time you may be judged based on your digital profile by other people, such as employers,
clients, landlords and those in the financial industry. This means you may want to consider changing
or making your profile to what it is you want these types of people and others to see about you.

Steps to Create a Digital Profile

Step One: Look for your digital reputation – you need to know what is already available online about
you so that you can address any problem areas. You can do this by removing your browsing history
in your browser and then adding your name to a variety of different search engines.

Step Two: Evaluate your online reputation – weigh up what the outcome is of what you have found.
You will want to review whether your online information really reflects who you are, or how you want
to be seen.

Step Three: Think before you post – when considering whether or not to put a post-up you need to
weigh up the advantages and disadvantages of doing so. Wild drinking photos may seem like fun at
the time, but a bit down the road you might not be happy about them. Consider what a future
employer might think, or your current or future partner.

Step Four: Keep it private – there are plenty of ways that you can protect your online reputation by
making sure you use privacy settings. You can hide contact details like email address and numbers.
You should never add information about other people without asking. Then look at ways you can
restrict access to your profile for different groups of people in your life, such as acquaintances, family
and close friends.

Step Five: Rectify problems – if your online reputation has problems, you will not be able to fix all of
them, but some you can. You can ask search engines to remove information about you from search
pg. 34
results. You can also get rid of obsolete accounts that you do not use any more. Often you will not
be able to remove content about you added by others, but you can ask them to remove it.

Step Six: Focus on what is great – work towards creating a digital reputation that promotes the most
positive and best aspects of you. This will help to avoid other more negative content surfacing in
searches, at least high up or on early search pages. You can also make sure that you use
professional sites like LinkedIn, and work on building a great profile on those.

Signing Up on LinkedIn

LinkedIn is the world's largest professional network with hundreds of millions of members. The
platform’s mission is to connect the world's professionals to make them more productive and
successful.

Exercise Seven

This is an individual activity

On your mobile phone follow the belowinstructions to create a LinkedIn profile:

a. Go to a web browser LinkedIn website www.linkedin.com or download a LinkedIn app of

Google Play
b. Navigate to the sign-up page
c. Type your first and last name, email address, and a password you'll use.
d. Note: You must use your true name when creating a profile. Company names and
pseudonyms are not allowed.
e. Click Join now
f. Complete any additional steps as required to build a reputable profile.

Lesson Video in production process

pg. 35
 8. USING APPLICATIONS FOR SELF-DEVELOPMENT
This section focuses on how to use digital platforms and applications to access
Section relevant information, self-development guides and learning channels to help
Overview improve and equip individuals for employment or improve their lives.

Time Estimate 60 minutes

The internet has made easier for individuals, organisation and entities to exchange and share
information and knowledge in the form of text, images or diagrams and videos online. Information,
and demonstrations of how to do things are readily available for any of us to access anytime from
anywhere in world as long you have internet connection. Some of the technology developments
examples includes:
• Search services, like Google Search which enable us to find information on just about
anything.
• Video streaming services such as YouTube make it possible to share videos with anyone
else in the world. YouTube can be searched and videos that match the search request are
then available for viewing on demand.
By having a Google account means that you have access to Google services and YouTube.

8.1 Using Google Search services to improve knowledge

Google Search is the most used search tool on mobile devices, being used by more than 80% of
mobile users.

Most mobile devices capable of accessing the Internet come with an application that provides the
ability to “Browse the Internet”. Some examples the Browsers include:
• Google Chrome
• Apple’s Safari
• Microsoft’s Internet Explorer/Edge
• Firefox
• Opera Mini

These applications understand how to send data to and receive data from Web Servers on the
internet. They also understand how to display data they receive in a format that is intended to make
it easy for us to interact with our computer. This data includes screen layout controls, text fields,
embedded videos, animations, action buttons, entry fields etc.

Tips and tricks to help you easily find information on Google search

Tip 1: Start with the basics

No matter what you're looking for, start with a simple search like where's the closest airport? You can
always add a few descriptive words if necessary.
If you're looking for a place or product in a specific location, add the location. For example, bakery
Mamelodi

Tip 2: Search using your voice

Tired of typing? To search with your voice, say "Ok Google" or select the Microphone

Tip 3: Choose words carefully

When you're deciding what words to put in the search box, try to choose words that are likely to
appear on the site you're looking for. For example, instead of saying my head hurts, say headache,
because that’s the word a medical site would use.
pg. 36
Tip 4: Don’t worry about the little things
• Spelling: Google's spell checker automatically uses the most common spelling of a given
word, whether or not you spell it correctly.
• Capitalization: A search for Limpopo is the same as a search for Limpopo.

Tip 5: Find quick answers

For many searches, Google will do the work for you and show an answer to your question in the
search results. Some features, like information about sports teams, aren't available in all regions.
• Weather: Search weather to see the weather in your location or add a city name, like weather
Johannesburg, to find weather for a certain place.
• Dictionary: Put define in front of any word to see its definition.
• Calculations: Enter a math equation like 3*9123 or solve complex graphing equations.
• Unit conversions: Enter any conversion, like 1 dollar in rands.
• Sports: Search for the name of your team to see a schedule, game scores and more.
• Quick facts: Search for the name of a celebrity, location, movie, or song to find related
information.

Tip 6: Try Searching in Different Ways

If you can't find what you're looking for at first, try different terms. Using synonymous search words
means you’ll likely get a set of broader results that might include what you’re looking for. However,
while it's good to be specific, you want to avoid going over the top.

For example, if you searched for “flag with a blue background and a yellow cross” but didn’t find
matches, try searching for “flags with yellow crosses.”

Tip 7: Eliminate Unwanted Search Results

Occasionally, you may not want results to include certain words, especially when they may be
offensive or upsetting. That's where Google's minus symbol comes in.

By searching with the minus symbol (-), you're telling Google to find results that exclude the words
preceded by a minus symbol. For example, if you know the flag you’re after isn’t the flag of the United
Kingdom, you'd search “flag with white cross -United Kingdom.”

Tip 8: Use the Advanced Search Option

On Google Search, you'll find an Advanced Search option, which gives you more control over your
queries. To use it, click the gear icon on the right side of the search results page. Then
click Advanced search.

Using Advanced Search, you can easily find webpages that are only available in a specific language,
sites that originate from a particular domain, or documents written in the past month or year.

Lesson Video in production process

pg. 37
8.2 Accessing Government Information and Services:
Governments around the world have worked on better serving their citizens by improving access to
information and services. This is done by government departments building web sites to constantly
share information they consider useful. Each government department typically has their own content
and offers their own interactive services. In South Africa, the government services and information
are published on the www.gov.za web site which can link you to any other government department,
agency and municipalities.

8.3 Using YouTube video services to access knowledge and skills

YouTube is a video sharing service where users can watch, like, share, comment and upload
their own videos. The video service can be accessed on PCs, laptops, tablets and via mobile phones.
The amount of content available on YouTube is amazing. It's available in more than 80 languages
and in most countries worldwide, so its content is diverse. If you want to learn something there’s
high chances that you could videos on that subject on YouTube.

You can sign into YouTube with your Google Account. To sign into YouTube, enter your Google Commented [MOU1]:
Account email and password. After signing up for YouTube, signing into your Google account on
another Google service will automatically sign you in to YouTube. When you sign in to YouTube you
can take advantage of many YouTube features:

• Save favourite videos for viewing later.

• Comment on the videos you watch.
• Rate the videos you watched.
• Create playlists of videos to watch.
• Operate your own video channel.
• Upload videos for others to watch.

YouTube can also personalize video recommendations based on

the videos you’ve liked and watched and your subscriptions.

Unless you create a channel, you won't have a public presence on YouTube. Your activity will be
fully private. If you want to upload your own videos, comment on videos, or create playlists, you can
create a YouTube at any time.

pg. 38
 Exercise Eight

This is an individual activity

Finding Videos to watch on YouTube

There are multiple ways you can find what you want to watch on YouTube. On the YouTube
platform, you can:

• Browse videos by entering a keyword or keyword phrase in the search field.

• Find videos in topics and categories.
• Filter results by date and popularity.
• Visit trending topics tab.
• View the charts rankings for music videos.
• View or subscribe to the Popular on YouTube channel.
• Check out the Up Next videos on the side (web) or bottom (app) of any video page to
see related videos.

Lesson Video in production process

pg. 39
 9. UNDERSTANDING CYBERSECURITY
This section focuses on giving an overview of the cybersecurity issues that can
Section affect a mobile technology user, how to implement basic password
Overview strengthening and dangers of cyberbullying.

Time Estimate 30 minutes

9.1 What is cybersecurity

Cybersecurity practices refer to the effort to put measures in place to secure your network, hardware,
and software. Additionally, cybersecurity practices involve an active decision-making process of
selecting the best plan of action to protect your digital/online environment. Cybersecurity practices
can involve setting up a Virtual Private Network (VPN), refraining from opening suspicious emails,
double-checking links before you click on it, regularly updating hardware and software, being
observant and cautious when using an open network, regularly logging out of online accounts,
keeping up with the latest threats to your privacy, downloading anti-virus and anti-malware software,
scheduling security upgrades on devices and backing up data stored on devices etc.

9.2 Cybercrimes awareness

Since the internet, networks for accessing the internet, mobile devices and social media services
are in broad use, increased amount of information is being logged, stored, and shared. The access
to large volumes of data and information about specific individuals (personal data), we become more
concerned about privacy, and in particular information privacy. Information that you as an individual
considers confidential or private, should not be accessible to everyone. What information do you
think should remain private? Should our online habits, our personal and professional relationships,
our medical status and records, our financial status remain pivate from the world?

9.3 Authentication and Password strengthening

Authentication is where a third-party intercepts transmission of information and poses as the other
parties to gather information. This leads to the need for higher security digital authentication. The
authentication process helps to verify if the person for example, logging into an account or
purchasing goods online is in fact the owner of the account.

Authentication factors and identity

There are three categories associated with how we authenticate:

• Something the user knows – Knowledge factors (password, personal identification number
(PIN), security question etc.)
• Something the user has – Ownership factors (cell phone, wrist band, ID or membership card)
• Something the user is – Inherence factors (biometrics - fingerprint, iris pattern, facial
recognition). Essentially based on physical appearance of the user.

Rules for strengthening passwords

• The passwords we use will, in many cases, depend on the expectations of the service
provider. Service providers can set the rules in terms of:
• Minimum length of password (the longer, the more secure, ideally 8 or more characters)
pg. 40
 • Requirement for combination of alphabetic characters and numbers (e.g., abc123)
• Requirement for mixed case (e.g., abCde…)
• Requirement for inclusion of symbols (e.g., abc123#)
• How often passwords must be changed
• Whether passwords can be reused

9.4 Public Wi-Fi Connection Risks

Mobile devices connect to the internet through procuring Mobile Data supplied by cellular operators,
and the most popular option through Wi-Fi Hotspots which are installed at our homes, at the office
or workplaces, restaurants, educational institutions or in public spaces.

There are risks/threats assorted with accessing internet through Wi-Fi Hotspots. One of the biggest
threats to especially public Wi-Fi is the ability for hackers to position themselves between you and
connection point, so that they can access your device to steal information, distribute malware or
hijack your devices to conduct harmful practices.

Public Wi-Fi risk Prevention

• Make certain you are connection to the correct network.

• Some hackers put up false hotspots with very similar names, and then gather your
information as you attempt to access internet services
• Use secure networks with encrypted data transfers
• Ensure all internet access is via sites that are secure (https://…)
• Avoid doing high risk transactions or sensitive work such as using online banking in a
public environment
• Turn off ‘network discovery’ of your device
• Turn off ‘sharing’ of your device resources when connecting to public networks
• Ensure your device always prompts you before connecting to a previously known network
• Forget the public networks you connect to when you leave the Wi-Fi hotspot

9.5 Cyberbullying
Also known as online bullying, cyberbullying is any form of bullying behaviour or harassment that
takes place on online applications using devices.

Bullying occurs when a person is sought out and repeatedly harassed using predominantly social
media sites, and other messaging applications. Stalking, repeatedly tormenting and even excluding
individuals from groups can be seen as cyberbullying. Cyberbullying includes sending, posting, or
sharing mean, perhaps false, negative, and potentially harmful content about others that leads to
embarrassment or humiliation.

The impact of cyber bullying may occur online but extend to real-world social outcomes including
peer pressure, depression, self-harm, and social exclusion. Amongst teenagers and young adults,
this behaviour can also be done anonymously. In some cases, cyberbullying can be considered a
criminal offense if the behaviour is determined to be unlawful.

pg. 41