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Unit 1 - Introduction To Computers

This document serves as an introductory unit on computer and digital literacy, emphasizing the importance of basic computer skills in everyday life and the workplace. It covers essential topics such as computer components, input and output devices, and the roles of computers in various fields. The unit aims to equip learners with the knowledge to operate computers effectively, including start-up and shutdown procedures, and using peripherals like keyboards and mice.

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Alex Ajex
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0% found this document useful (0 votes)
19 views86 pages

Unit 1 - Introduction To Computers

This document serves as an introductory unit on computer and digital literacy, emphasizing the importance of basic computer skills in everyday life and the workplace. It covers essential topics such as computer components, input and output devices, and the roles of computers in various fields. The unit aims to equip learners with the knowledge to operate computers effectively, including start-up and shutdown procedures, and using peripherals like keyboards and mice.

Uploaded by

Alex Ajex
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
You are on page 1/ 86

OLG: Computer and Digital Literacy: Unit 1

INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTERS
Welcome to this introductory unit on computers
Basic computer literacy is a crucial skill in life and in the workplace. The term computer
literacy refers to the knowledge and ability to use computers and related technologies
efficiently. We hope you enjoy this unit!

BEFOR E YOU S TAR T

▶ Specific outcomes

▶ Glossary

C OUR S E C ONTENT

▶ 1.1 Introduction

▶ 1.2 The role of computers

C OMPUTOR C OMPONENTS
▶▶ 1.2.1 Input components

▶▶ 1.2.2 Output components

▶▶ 1.2.3 Computer memory

▶▶ 1.2.4 The motherboard

▶▶ 1.2.5 Computer storage

▶▶ 1.2.6 Connections and ports

▶▶ 1.2.7 Computer specifications

PR OC EDUR ES

▶ 1.3 Start-up and shutdown procedures

▶ 1.4 Introduction to the computer keyboard

▶ 1.5 Using the mouse

DIS C US S ION

▶ Discussion forum

C ONC LUS ION

▶ Progress check
Lesson 1 of 16

► Specific outcomes

00:20

Click the ► button to listen to an audio stream of this lesson

You should be able to:

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

Describe the most important functions and features of a computer.

Identify the main parts of a computer.

Identify the steps for starting a computer as well as the proper


shutdown procedure.

Identify the different groups of keys on a keyboard.

Perform different tasks by using a mouse.


CO N T IN U E
Lesson 2 of 16

► Glossary

You must understand the following terms:

Making copies of important data or


files to prevent data loss in case of
Backup hardware failure, software issues or
accidental deletion.
The delivery of computing services,
such as storage, servers, and software,
over the internet, allows users to
Cloud computing access and utilise resources remotely
rather than locally on their own
computers.

Electronic mail used for sending,


receiving, and storing digital
Email messages, files, and attachments
over computer networks.
A visual interface that allows users to
interact with a computer using icons,
Graphical User menus, and windows, making it easier
Interface (GUI) to navigate and operate software
applications.

Hard Disk Drive A traditional storage device that


uses rotating disks to store and
(HDD) retrieve data magnetically.
The physical components of a computer
system, such as the monitor, keyboard,
Hardware mouse, Hard Disk Drive (HDD), Solid
State Drive (SSD), and Central
Processing Unit (CPU).

A global network of interconnected


computers that enables
Internet communication, information sharing,
and access to various online services
and resources.
The software that manages computer
hardware and software resources,
Operating System providing a user-friendly interface to
interact with the computer and run
applications.

Programs and applications that run on a


computer, including operating systems,
Software word processors, web browsers, and
multimedia players.
A newer storage device that uses flash
memory to store and retrieve data,
Solid State Drive o ering faster read/write speeds and
(SSD) better durability compared to
traditional Hard Disk Drives (HDDs).

A type of malicious software that can


infect computer systems and disrupt
Virus their normal operation or damage files.
Antivirus software is used to detect and
remove viruses.
Software used to access and view
websites on the internet, such as
Web Browser Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, or
Microsoft Edge.

Software designed for creating,


editing, and formatting text-based
Word Processor documents, such as MS Word or
Google Docs.

CO N T IN U E
Lesson 3 of 16

► 1.1 Introduction
00:36

Click the ► button to listen to an audio stream of this lesson

Introduction to computers

Basic computer literacy is a crucial skill in life and in the workplace.

The term computer literacy refers to the knowledge and ability to use computers and related

technologies efficiently.

Computer skills refer to the ability to use computer hardware and software.

Basic computer skills incorporated in this study unit include:

Basic operation – switching a computer on and proper shutdown procedures


Using the mouse to interact and manipulate on-screen elements

Using the keyboard

This study unit explains the role of computers and the basic concepts about the parts of a computer. It
also explains how to use a computer in different aspects of life.

CO N T IN U E
Lesson 4 of 16

► 1.2 The role of computers

01:11

Click the ► button to listen to an audio stream of this lesson

What is the role of computers?


“ A computer is a programmable machine that receives input, stores, and manipulates
data and provides output in a useful format.”

Computers have many roles and functions in our modern world, including:

1 Processing information
Computers can process large amounts of data quickly and accurately, making them useful
in fields such as scientific research, finance, and business.

2 Communication
Computers facilitate communication through various means such as email, social media,
and video conferencing.

3 Entertainment
Computers provide a variety of entertainment options, including gaming, streaming
movies and TV shows, and listening to music.
4 Education
Computers are used in education to enhance learning through online courses, interactive
software, and educational games.

5 Automation
Computers automate repetitive tasks, increasing efficiency and productivity in industries
such as manufacturing, logistics, and healthcare.

6 Creativity
Computers are used in creative industries such as graphic design, music production, and
film editing.

Overall, computers play a vital role in many aspects of modern life, and their significance will only
continue to grow as technology advances.

Look at this interesting video on past and present technology.


Past and Present | Technology Then and Now

CO N T IN U E
Lesson 5 of 16

►► 1.2.1 Input components

00:22

Click the ► button to listen to an audio stream of this lesson

What are input devices?

A computer has a multitude of components. This section explores the different categories,
components, and their relevant functions.

MOUSE TO U C H S C R EEN S TY LU S

A device that you use to interact with items displayed on the computer screen. A standard mouse has
a left and a right button.

You use the left button to select items and provide instructions by clicking an active area on the
screen.

You use the right button to display commonly used menu items on the screen. This could either be
wired or wireless. These commonly connect with a USB interface.
MOUSE TO U C H S C R EEN S TY LU S

A device that serves as a computer display monitor as well as an input device. The screen is sensitive
to pressure and/or heat and the user interacts with the computer by touching areas, such as pictures or
words on the screen.

Touch screen monitors look identical to conventional monitors. These commonly connect with a VGA,
DVI, Display Port, HDMI, or USB-C interface. This could either be wired or wireless.
MOUSE TO U C H S C R EEN S TY LU S

A pointing device, similar to a pen, used to make selections and enter information by tapping on a touch
and/or heat-sensitive surface. Some styluses connect wirelessly to the device in order to only transfer
touches emanating from the stylus tip, and no other inputs such as from the palm of a hand. This could
either be wired or wireless.
K EY B O A R D MIC ROP HON E S C A N N ER

A set of keys that resembles a keyboard on a typewriter. You use the keyboard to type text such as
letters or numbers into the computer. When certain keys are selected in a specific order, it will act as a
shortcut to various commands. The most common western keyboards are of the QWERTY type. This
could either be wired or wireless.
K EY B O A R D MIC ROP HON E S C A N N ER

A device that you can use to talk into to record voice or sound. You can also record your speech and let
the computer convert it into text, with the relevant software. These commonly connect with a USB
interface. This could either be wired or wireless.
K EY B O A R D MIC ROP HON E S C A N N ER

You can use this device to transfer an exact copy of a photograph or document into a computer in a
digital format.

A scanner reads a page and translates it into a digital format that a computer can read.
For example, you can scan photographs of your family using a scanner. Common formats for scanning
include PDF (documents) and JPEG (pictures). This could either be wired or wireless. Scanners are
often integrated into multifunction printer devices. These commonly connect with a USB interface.
B A R C O D E R EA D ER O P TI C A L M A R K R EA D ER (O C R ) M I S C ELLA N EO U S

A device for reading bar codes (data in the form of light and dark lines, representing data). Bar Code
data is used in labelling goods, books, and other items. It could be a hand or a stationary scanner, either
wired or wireless. These commonly connect with a USB interface.
B A R C O D E R EA D ER O P TI C A L M A R K R EA D ER (O C R ) M I S C ELLA N EO U S

It scans the text optically, character by character, converts them into a machine-readable code and
stores the text on the system memory. These commonly connect with a USB interface. This could
either be wired or wireless.
B A R C O D E R EA D ER O P TI C A L M A R K R EA D ER (O C R ) M I S C ELLA N EO U S

Various other devices exist which interfaces with a computer, such as joysticks, which usually has a
specific task (like controlling CCTV cameras, gaming devices and others). These commonly connect
with a USB interface. This could either be wired or wireless.
CO N T IN U E
Lesson 6 of 16

►► 1.2.2 Output components

00:15

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What are output devices?

You use output devices to get feedback from a computer after it performs a task. Some examples of
output devices are described below:

M O N I TO R P R I N TER 3 D P R I N TER

A device that is similar to a television. It is used to display information in visual form, using text and
graphics. Older technology includes CRT screens, whilst most modern monitors are LCD.
The main characteristics of a monitor include the resolution (such as full high definition - FHD) and the
refresh rate (measured in Hertz). Visual output from a computer is produced through the graphics
processing unit (GPU), which could either be incorporated within the motherboard, or be external to the
motherboard.

These commonly connect with a VGA, DVI, Display Port, HDMI, or USB-C interface. This could either be
wired or wireless. Touch screen monitors look identical to conventional monitors.
M O N I TO R P R I N TER 3 D P R I N TER

A device that you use to transfer text and images from a computer to paper or to another medium,
such as photo paper. You can use a printer to create a paper copy of whatever you see on your monitor.
The most common types of printer technology include inkjet and laser. These commonly connect with a
USB interface.

Hard A hard copy is also referred to as a printout and refers to a printed


copy version of data held in a computer, on paper.

The term refers to an electronic copy of data, such as a file viewed on a


computer’s display or transmitted as an e-mail attachment. Modern
Soft copy
operating systems allow one to ‘print to PDF’, creating a soft copy of the
data displayed.
M O N I TO R P R I N TER 3 D P R I N TER

These are devices which take an electronic three-dimensional rendering (files formed through
computer-aided design – CAD) and prints it in three dimensions, either with filament (a type of plastic),
or even concrete in some construction applications. These commonly connect with a USB interface.
S P EA K ER /H EA D P H O N E P R O JEC TO R

A device that plays sound emanating from sound files (or through the internet-browser on the
computer).

Speakers may either be external or built into the computer, or one can listen through headphones which
can be wired or wireless, or wireless ear pods.

Audio output from a computer is produced through the audio card, which could either be incorporated
within the motherboard, or be external to the motherboard. These commonly connect with a USB
interface, or wirelessly via Bluetooth technology.
S P EA K ER /H EA D P H O N E P R O JEC TO R

These are optical devices which project an image onto a screen. Older projectors created images by
shining a light through a small transparent lens, but newer projectors can project the image directly by
using lasers, using LED technology.
Visual output from a computer is produced through the graphics processing unit (GPU), which could
either be incorporated within the motherboard, or external to the motherboard. These commonly
connect with a VGA, DVI, Display Port, HDMI, or USB-C interface. This could either be wired or wireless,
with some models including a battery for being portable.
Can you sort the different hardware components to the correct category?

Input device
Keyboard Mouse

Touchpad Scanner

Microphone

Output device

Monitor Printer

Speakers Headphones
Input or output device

Touchscreen Webcam

Sound card

Complete the content above before moving on.


Lesson 7 of 16

►► 1.2.3 Computer memory

00:26

Click the ► button to listen to an audio stream of this lesson

What is the central processing unit?

The central processing unit (CPU) is the primary part of any digital computer system. It acts as the
physical ‘heart’ of the global computer system.

Linked to the CPU are various peripheral equipment, including input/output devices and auxiliary

storage units. In most modern computers, the CPU is on an integrated circuit chip called a
microprocessor. The CPU is linked directly to the Motherboard.
Can you answer the following question?

Select all that apply.

What is a CPU and what are its main functions?

The CPU stands for Central Processing Unit

The CPU is a type of memory used to store data


temporarily
The main function of the CPU is to carry out instructions
for processing data

The CPU is responsible for executing software programs


and managing system resources

The CPU is a type of input device used to enter data into


a computer

SUBMIT

There are two main types of memory:


 

RAM

This is computer memory which is available to the user to create, load, or run programmes (software) and for
the temporary storage/manipulation of data. RAM is volatile as a medium of storage, so its contents are lost
when the power fails, or the device is turned off.

Some RAM modules are soldered onto the motherboard, whilst other motherboards allow for the expansion of
modules. Current modern formats include DDR4 and DDR5.

ROM

ROM is non-volatile or permanent memory that is commonly used to store commands, such as the commands
that check whether everything is working properly. ROM is a storage medium that permanently stores data on
computers and other electronic devices. It contains the programming required for the start-up of a PC, which is
required for boot-up. It holds programme (software) instructions and performs crucial input/output tasks. This
memory type is frequently referred to as ‘firmware’.
What is the difference between RAM and ROM? Match the correct des

RAM (Random access


memory)

Volatile - data is lost when Main memory for running


power is turned off applications

Stores data that is currently


Read and write
being used

Smaller capacity Faster access speed


ROM (Read-only memory)

Non-volatile - data is retained Used for booting up the


even when power is turned computer and running
off rmware

Stores permanent data, such


Read only
as BIOS or rmware

Typically larger capacity Slower access speed

CO N T IN U E
Lesson 8 of 16

►► 1.2.4 The motherboard

00:30

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What is a motherboard?

A motherboard is the central printed circuit board (PCB) in a computer and holds many crucial
components of the system, while providing connectors for other peripherals.
The motherboard connects input, output, and processing devices together and tells the CPU how to
run. Other components on the motherboard include the GPU (video card), the sound card, and the
circuits that allow a computer to communicate with devices like a monitor, mouse, keyboard, and

printer. The motherboard is sometimes called a system board.


Motherboards Explained

CO N T IN U E
Lesson 9 of 16

►► 1.2.5 Computer storage

00:41

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What types of computer storage devices are there?

You use storage devices to store computer information. Storage devices come in many forms. Some
examples are hard disk drives (HDDs), solid state drives (SSDs), USB flash drives, memory cards,
CD/DVD-ROMs, and cloud storage.

Storage devices can be divided into two types, namely:

Internal storage devices

External storage devices

Some common storage devices are described below:

H A R D D I S K D R I VES S O LI D S TA TE D R I VES C D ROM D VD - R O M


Hard disk drives (HDD), consist of a number of magnetic disks that used to be the main storage device
on most computers. In modern times, solid-state drives (SSD) are becoming all the more popular. It
can be an external or an internal device.

H A R D D I S K D R I VES S O LI D S TA TE D R I VES C D ROM D VD - R O M

Solid state drives (SSD) consist of non-volatile flash memory. This is quickly replacing the use of HDDs
in PCs, as it operates at much greater speeds, yielding much better computer performance.
H A R D D I S K D R I VES S O LI D S TA TE D R I VES C D ROM D VD - R O M

A portable storage medium that allows you to store 400 times more data than on a floppy disk (these
are now obsolete). It is less prone to damage than a floppy disk but is still fallible as they scratch easily.
Often referred to as an optical drive but is becoming obsolete with many modern computers not
including this interface.
H A R D D I S K D R I VES S O LI D S TA TE D R I VES C D ROM D VD - R O M

A portable storage medium that is similar to a CD-ROM; however, it can store larger amounts of data
than a floppy disk or a CD-ROM, with even more storage provided by Blu-ray Discs. A DVD-ROM was
commonly used to store movies and videos, but this is quickly being replaced by SSDs and cloud
storage. Often referred to as an optical drive but is becoming obsolete with many modern computers
not including this interface.
M EM O R Y C A R D S FLA S H D R I VES C LO U D S TO R A G E

A memory card is known to be a small storage medium which is used to store information. The most
common type of data that’s being stored on a memory card include videos, pictures, audio, and other
types of file formats. Memory cards usually interface with cameras and audio/video recorders.
M EM O R Y C A R D S FLA S H D R I VES C LO U D S TO R A G E

This storage involves saving data on hardware which interfaces through a USB connection.
M EM O R Y C A R D S FLA S H D R I VES C LO U D S TO R A G E

This storage involves saving data on hardware in a remote physical location, which can be accessed
from any device via the Internet.
CO N T IN U E
Lesson 10 of 16

►► 1.2.6 Connections and ports

00:25

Click the ► button to listen to an audio stream of this lesson

Connections and ports

A port is a channel through which data is transferred between input/output devices and the processor.
There are several types of ports that you can use to connect a computer to external devices and
networks.

Some types of ports are described in the following list:

Universal Serial Bus port (USB)



You use this to connect peripheral devices such as a mouse, a modem, a keyboard, or a printer to a
computer. Modern USB- C/Thunderbolt ports additionally allow for the transfer of power and video to
the device.
Network / ethernet port

You use this to connect a computer to other computers to exchange information between the
computers.

Parallel port and serial port



You use these ports to connect printers and other devices to a personal computer. However, the USB
port is now preferred to connect peripheral devices because it is faster, universal, and easier to use.

Display adapter

Video Graphic Array – VGA

Digital Visual Interface – DVI

Display Port – DP

HDMI

USB-C/Thunderbolt

You connect a monitor to a display adapter on your computer. The display adapter generates the video
signal received from a computer and sends it to a monitor or projector through a cable. The display
adapter may be on the motherboard or an expansion card. Many modern monitors and projectors can
also display video wirelessly.
Power

A motherboard and other components inside a computer use direct current (DC). A power supply
takes alternating current (AC) from a wall outlet and converts it into DC power with a sufficient (lower)
voltage.
Can you answer the following question?

Is the following statement true or false?

A network port is a hardware interface used to connect a computer to a

network, and it can be physical or virtual.

True
False

SUBMIT

Complete the content above before moving on.


Lesson 11 of 16

►► 1.2.7 Computer specifications

00:10

Click the ► button to listen to an audio stream of this lesson

What is a computer specification?

Computer specification is also referred to as computer configuration. Defined as the specific hardware
and software details in terms of devices attached, capacity, or capability.

Inspiron desktop
Extensive storage meets upgraded speed and power in an innovative design that saves space
without sacrificing performance.

WEBSITE

DELL
15.6-inch laptop featuring responsive performance in a sleek design with 2-sided narrow borders,
optional PCIe SSDs, Express Charge and a choice of Intel® Celeron® or Intel® Pentium®
processors.

WEBSITE
Can you answer the following question?

Can you match the computer specifications to the correct component?

CPU Intel core i7

RAM 16 GB

HDD/SDD Capacity 512 GB x 2 SSD

Operating system Windows 11 Home

SUBMIT
Complete the content above before moving on.
Lesson 12 of 16

► 1.3 Start-up and shutdown procedures

00:09

Click the ► button to listen to an audio stream of this lesson

Proper start-up and shutdown procedures

The proper start-up procedure for a personal computer includes the following steps.

Click on the START button below to learn more.


How to turn on your computer

Turning on a computer for the first time can be different from one computer to the next.
Your experience could be different from this lesson. It's OK to ask someone for help.
Step 1

Step 1 Turning on a computer

00:33

To turn on a computer, press the power button on the system unit. When you turn on the
computer, lights on the keyboard may blink briefly and you may also hear a beep. This is an
indication that the power-on self-test (POST) has started.

The computer performs a sequence of quick tests to check whether the motherboard,
memory, HDD or SSD, and other components are working.

If you hear a series of beeps, the monitor may display a message indicating that a
component is not functioning. For example, if the keyboard cable is not attached, an error
message may report that there is no keyboard detected.
Step 2

The operating system

00:12

After POST, the computer starts the operating system (OS). The operating system controls
the computer’s hardware and manages the different operations of the computer, such as
logging on, logging off, and shutting down.
Step 3

The welcome screen

00:22

When the computer starts the operating system, the Welcome Screen appears. This screen
displays the links to existing user accounts.

To log on to Microsoft Windows 10, click the link to your user account, type your password in
the box, and click the button next to the box. For more modern laptop computers, a
fingerprint sensor or camera may be employed to use biographical information for log-on.
Step 4

Log-in

00:09

After you log-on to your computer, the operating system prepares the desktop in a few
seconds. If you are using Windows, the desktop appears, and the Welcome Centre opens.
Step 5

Log-o

00:21

After you log-on, you can perform various tasks, such as creating a new file or modifying an
existing file. Before you close the file, you need to save the changes you made to the file. You
can then log-off from the operating system. Logging-off is useful if you share your
computer with other people. You can end your session without affecting the sessions of
other users if they did not log-off from their sessions.
Step 6

Shut down

00:21

You can also end your computer session by using the Shut Down command. If you shut
down a computer when other users are logged on, they can lose unsaved data.

If you encounter problems while using the computer, you can use the Restart option to
restart the computer. On most computers, you should never use the actual power button on
the front of the system unit to turn-off the computer unless it stops responding.
Summary

00:22

The proper start-up procedure for a personal computer includes the following steps:

1. Make sure the power cord is plugged in and the outlet is switched on.

2. Press the power button on the computer or laptop.

3. Wait for the operating system to load.

4. Enter your login credentials if required.

5. Wait for any necessary updates to install.

6. Launch any desired applications or programs.

Can you answer the following question?

What is the proper start-up procedure for a personal computer?


Wait for the operating system to load, then plug in the
power cord

Log in to the operating system, then press the power


button

Press the power button, then log in to the operating


system

Launch any desired applications or programs before


pressing the power button

SUBMIT

Select all that apply.

Why is it not advisable to turn off a computer by pressing the physical

power button?

It can cause data loss or corruption


It can damage the computer hardware

It can interrupt important processes and tasks

It can increase the lifespan of the computer

It can cause the computer to start up more slowly

SUBMIT

Complete the content above before moving on.


Lesson 13 of 16

► 1.4 Introduction to the computer keyboard

01:43

Click the ► button to listen to an audio stream of this lesson

The computer keyboard

Keyboards are set up for specific geographical locations and languages. Keyboards can either be wired
or wireless, with built-in versions available on laptops.
Function keys
The keys labelled with ‘F’ including F1, F2 and so forth are called Function Keys. You use them to
perform specific functions. Their functions differ from programme to programme. The function of the F1
key in most programmes is to access the help file associated with a programme.

Character (typewriter) keys


These include the alphabetic and alphanumeric keys on the keyboard. The most common layout is the
QWERTY keyboard. This layout arranges keys so that frequently used keys are easiest to press, which
reduces muscle fatigue when typing common English.

Numeric keypad
The numeric keypad is a series of alphanumeric keys (from 0 to 9) with a similar layout to that of a
calculator and is typically used for mathematical calculations. For laptops, 14 inch and smaller does not
include a numpad, whereas 15.6 inch and above generally does.
Enter and editing (command) keys
Keys such as INSERT (INS), DELETE (DEL), and BACKSPACE are command keys.

When the INSERT key is turned ON, it helps you overwrite characters to the right of the cursor.

When the INSERT key is OFF, it helps you enter text or characters to the right of the cursor, without
overwriting this text or characters.

The DELETE key and the BACKSPACE key are used to remove typed text, characters, and other objects
on the right and left side of the cursor respectively.

Navigation keys
Also referred to as direction keys. These keys are used for moving around in documents or web pages
and editing text.

They include the ARROW KEYS, HOME, END, PAGE UP and DOWN, DELETE, and INSERT.

Here are some useful links with additional information on the QWERTY Keyboard:

A brief history of the QWERTY Keyboard


On July 1, 1874, the Remington typewriter hit the market, with the earliest version of what would
become the keyboard layout we still use today.

WEBSITE

The QWERTY Keyboard Layout: History and Use


Read about the QWERTY keyboard layout and its history. See images of QWERTY keyboards and
learn why QWERTY is the most popular English keyboard layout.
WEBSITE

Can you answer the following question?

Can you match the key to its description?

Toggle between upper and


lowercase letters or access
Shift key
symbols on the upper part of a
key

Used to input commands or


Enter/Return key
complete a line of text
Used to add spaces between
Space bar
words or characters

Used to indent text or move


Tab key
between fields on a form

Used to delete the character to


Backspace key
the left of the cursor

Used to delete the character to


Delete key
the right of the cursor

Used to lock the keyboard in


Caps lock key
uppercase mode

SUBMIT
CO N T IN U E
Lesson 14 of 16

► 1.5 Using the mouse

02:04

Click the ► button to listen to an audio stream of this lesson

What is a computer mouse?

A mouse is a small device that you can use to move, select, and open items on your computer screen. A
mouse can either be wired or wireless. For a laptop, you have a trackpad that functions in a similar way.

The mouse is usually kept on the desk next to the keyboard. Most mouse devices have at least two

buttons, left and right. Most of the actions are performed by clicking the left button. The right button is
used for specific functions. Some advanced types of mouse devices provide additional buttons to
speed up common tasks, such as scrolling text. As you move the mouse on your desk, a cursor moves
correspondingly on your screen. The mouse allows you to select an item on the screen. As you move

the cursor over different areas of the screen, the items, or the cursor change. These changes indicate
that you can click an item to open it or see more of its options.

You can open an item by moving the pointer to it and clicking the left mouse button twice. In a
document, you can use the mouse to select a position to start typing. You need to position the cursor in

the document, click where you want to insert text, and then use your keyboard to begin typing.
Exercise your mouse skills by clicking on the mouse tutorial!

To move an item, you need to left-click it, and then holding the mouse button down, move the item to a
different location. After you move the item to the new location, you release the mouse button.

The right button on the mouse is used to display a menu. The options on this menu include the most

common tasks, such as copying text from one location and pasting it to another location. These are
called context-sensitive menus. These menus help you complete tasks quickly. The new Windows 11
operating system indicates graphics for most of these common functions, omitting the words.

Right-click menu

Most mouse devices also have a wheel that helps you to scroll through documents or pages. To scroll,
place your finger on the wheel and roll it back and forth. This moves the document up and down. There
are different types of mouse devices available in the market. Older mouse devices have a rubber or a
metal ball on the underside but are now obsolete. New mouse devices make use of laser technology.

Within the operating system settings, you can change the speed at which the cursor moves and the
speed at which the wheel scrolls.
Explore the topic further by watching the following video for a comprehensive explanation.

HANDLING A MOUSE class-2

CO N T IN U E
Lesson 15 of 16

► Discussion forum

Discussion forum

Discussion forum for unit 1


Click on the discussion button to be part of the discussion forum. You will have the opportunity to
discuss topics that were introduced in this unit with the lecturer and fellow students.

DISCUSSION

CO N T IN U E
Lesson 16 of 16

► Progress check

Progress check

Do you understand the following? You must check the checkboxes before you can continue.

I can describe the most important functions and features of a computer.

I can identify the main parts of a computer.

I can identify the steps for starting a computer as well as the proper shutdown
procedure.

I can identify the different groups of keys on a keyboard.

I can perform different tasks by using a mouse.

Check the checkboxes before moving on

What do you want to do? You can download the PDF document, Start again or Exit this module.
Unit 1 - Introduction to business logistics.pdf
8.6 MB

Start again

START AGAIN

EXIT this section

EXIT

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