Module 2: Operating System Basics

Purpose: This section introduces learners to the fundamental software that manages all the
hardware and other programs on a computer – the Operating System (OS). The goal is to make
learners comfortable navigating the computer's interface, managing files, and launching
applications.

1. Introduction to Operating Systems (OS)

• What is an Operating System?

o Simple Definition: An Operating System is the most important software on a

computer. It's like the "manager" or "traffic cop" of the computer. It tells the
computer's hardware what to do and allows other programs to run.

o Analogy: Think of a smartphone. You don't directly tell the screen to light up or
the speaker to make a sound when you play a video. The phone's operating
system (like Android or iOS) handles all those complex tasks behind the scenes.

o Key Roles of an OS:

▪ Manages Hardware: Controls the CPU, memory, storage, keyboard,

mouse, printer, etc.

▪ Manages Software: Allows you to open, run, and close applications (like
Word, a web browser, or a game).

▪ Manages Files: Helps you organize and find your documents, pictures,
and videos.

▪ Provides a User Interface: Gives you a way to interact with the computer
(what you see on the screen).

• Common Operating System Examples:

o Microsoft Windows: The most widely used OS for personal computers (e.g.,
Windows 10, Windows 11).

o macOS: The OS used by Apple's Macintosh computers (e.g., macOS Ventura,

macOS Sonoma).

o Linux: An open-source OS, often used in servers, supercomputers, and for

developers (e.g., Ubuntu, Fedora).
 o (Brief mention for context): Mobile OS like Android and iOS for smartphones
and tablets, to highlight that OS exist on other devices too.

2. The Desktop Environment (Graphical User Interface - GUI)

• What is a GUI?

o Definition: GUI stands for Graphical User Interface. It's a visual way to interact
with the computer using pictures (icons), menus, and windows, rather than
typing complex commands.

o Analogy: Instead of telling your phone to "open the photo gallery," you just tap
on the "Photos" icon. The GUI makes computers user-friendly.

• Key Elements of the Desktop:

o Desktop Background/Wallpaper: The image or color behind all the icons.

Learners can customize this later.

o Icons: Small pictures that represent programs, files, folders, or shortcuts.

▪ My Computer/This PC: Accesses all drives and connected devices.

▪ Recycle Bin/Trash: Where deleted files go before permanent removal.

▪ Shortcuts: Icons with a small arrow, linking to an original program or file.

o Taskbar (Windows) / Dock (macOS):

▪ Taskbar (Windows): A horizontal bar usually at the bottom of the screen.

▪ Start Button/Menu: Provides access to all programs, settings, and

power options.

▪ Pinned Icons: Programs you use frequently.

▪ Open Program Icons: Shows which programs are currently

running.

▪ Notification Area/System Tray: Displays time, date, network

status, battery, and other background program notifications.

▪ Dock (macOS): A row of icons, usually at the bottom, for quickly

launching applications and switching between open ones.
 o Windows/Panes: Rectangular areas on the screen where applications and files
are displayed.

▪ Title Bar: Shows the name of the program or file.

▪ Minimize, Maximize/Restore Down, Close Buttons: Standard controls for

managing window size and visibility.

3. Mouse and Keyboard Skills

• Mastering the Mouse:

o Holding the Mouse: Proper grip for comfort and control.

o Pointing: Moving the mouse cursor over items on the screen.

o Click (Left-Click): Selecting an item, activating a button, opening a menu.

o Double-Click (Left-Click): Opening a program, file, or folder. (Emphasize the

speed required).

o Right-Click: Opening a context menu (a list of options specific to the item

clicked).

o Drag-and-Drop: Clicking and holding the left mouse button, moving the item,
then releasing the button to move or copy files/icons.

o Scrolling: Using the scroll wheel to move up and down in documents or web
pages.

• Basic Keyboard Skills:

o Home Row: Proper finger placement for efficient typing (brief introduction, not
full typing course).

o Enter Key: Confirming commands, moving to the next line.

o Spacebar: Creating spaces between words.

o Backspace/Delete: Erasing characters.

o Shift Key: Capitalizing letters, typing symbols.

o Ctrl (Control) / Cmd (Command) Key: Used with other keys for shortcuts (e.g.,
Ctrl+C for copy).
 o Arrow Keys: Moving cursor in documents or navigating.

4. File and Folder Management

• Understanding Files and Folders:

o File: A collection of related information stored on the computer (e.g., a

document, a picture, a song, a video).

o Folder (or Directory): A container used to organize files and other folders. Like a
physical folder in a filing cabinet.

• Key Operations:

o Creating New Folders: Organizing files into logical groups.

o Saving Files: Storing newly created or edited files onto a storage device
(understanding "Save As" for first-time save and "Save" for updates).

o Opening Files: Launching files into their associated programs.

o Copying Files/Folders: Creating a duplicate in another location.

o Cutting (Moving) Files/Folders: Moving a file or folder from one location to

another.

o Pasting Files/Folders: Placing copied or cut items into a new location.

o Deleting Files/Folders: Moving items to the Recycle Bin/Trash.

o Renaming Files/Folders: Changing their names.

o Searching for Files: Using the OS's search function to locate specific files or
folders.

o Understanding File Extensions: Brief explanation (e.g., .docx for Word, .jpg for
images, .mp3 for audio) to help identify file types.

5. Managing Applications

• Launching Applications:

o From the Start Menu/Apple Menu.

o From desktop shortcuts.

 o From the Taskbar/Dock.

o By double-clicking a file that opens with the application.

• Closing Applications: Using the 'X' button or File > Exit.

• Switching Between Open Applications: Using the Taskbar (Windows) or Cmd+Tab

(macOS).

• Minimizing, Maximizing, and Restoring Windows: Understanding the window control

buttons to manage screen space.

6. Basic System Settings

• Changing Desktop Background/Wallpaper: Personalizing the computer.

• Adjusting Display Settings: Changing screen resolution (briefly explain why this might be
necessary).

• Setting Date and Time: Ensuring the computer's clock is accurate.

• Adjusting Volume: Using the speaker icon in the system tray.

Practical Activities and Tips for Teaching:

• Hands-on is Key: Allow ample time for students to practice every single mouse click,
keyboard press, and file operation.

• Guided Exploration: Don't just lecture; guide them step-by-step through tasks on the
computer. "Click here, now drag this there."

• Repetition: Basic actions like opening a folder, creating a new file, or saving should be
repeated many times.

• "Follow the Leader" Activities: Instructor demonstrates, students follow on their own
machines.

• Simple Scenarios: "Imagine you need to save a picture of your pet. How would you
create a folder for it?"

• Troubleshooting Introduction: Briefly explain that if the computer seems stuck, the first
step is often to restart it (the "off and on again" rule).
 • Patience and Encouragement: Learning these basics can be frustrating for absolute
beginners. Celebrate small successes.

This module is the foundation for all subsequent practical skills, making comfort and confidence
with the operating system paramount