Welcome to the Department of Information and Communication Technology

Duration: 40 Hours

Module Overview: This module is designed to equip learners with foundational computer skills necessary for both academic and workplace environments. It covers the identification and operation of various computer hardware components, installation of operating systems and software, and the use of desktop tools and interfaces. Learners will gain practical experience in creating and managing files, working with word processing applications for typesetting reports and documents, and performing basic computer maintenance tasks. Additionally, the module introduces learners to safe and efficient use of peripheral devices, including scanners and external storage, while fostering competency in navigating the digital workspace.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the module, the learner should be able to:

• Use and manipulate a computer to prepare documents
• Search web-based information from the internet

Competences

Detailed Module Description

Sub-module	Content	Duration
1. Introduction to Computer	Origin of computer Types of computers and computer hardware (CPU, hard disk drives, modem, keyboard, etc.) Computer accessories: scanners, projectors, external speakers Keyboard basics: function keys, numeric keys, and navigation keys Starting and shutting down a computer Computer software: classification, types, and usage Computer components: video card, network cards, cables, ROM, RAM, monitors, printers, cameras, processors	10 Hours
2. Operating System	Functions of an operating system Types and classification of operating systems Benefits of operating systems Installation of Windows OS and application software	6 Hours
3. Desktop Main Menu	Start Menu and Applications Menu Desktop management: background, screen saver Manipulating windows: resizing, maximizing, minimizing, task pane, tiling Copying files from different locations Icons, files, and folders	4 Hours
4. Word Processing	Starting, creating, and opening a Word window Working with text Using word menus for document editing: copy, paste, cut Saving a document in different formats and to storage media Formatting a page and document: paper size, background colours Working with tables: rows and columns Working with drawings, clipart, and pictures Mail merging	20 Hours

Duration: 40 Hours

Module Overview: This module is intended to help learners acquire practical skills in printing and scanning documents, utilizing the internet for academic and professional research, managing email communication, and working with spreadsheet software to analyze data and generate reports. Learners will also gain proficiency in sharing printers over a LAN and applying spreadsheet formulas for data processing.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the module, the learner should be able to:

• Prepare documents on spreadsheets
• Use the internet to search for the required information

Competences

Detailed Module Description

Sub-module	Content	Duration
5. Printing, Scanning and Copying Documents	Printing documents Working with printer cartridges and toners Scanning documents and pictures Copying Safety, security and health precautions of printing and scanning	4 Hours
6. Internet and E-mail	The Internet and web browsers Opening a website using URL Searching information using search engines Saving and downloading files, music, pictures to the computer Creating email accounts Managing email folders and attachments Attaching documents to outgoing email Downloading attachments from incoming email Formatting, searching, and printing email Safety and security when using internet and email	16 Hours
7. Working with Spreadsheets	Creating and managing Excel documents Opening and closing Excel files Entering, editing, and formatting data Using formulas and functions Creating and plotting charts and graphs Inserting tables into Excel worksheets Printing a spreadsheet, page setup, and gridlines	20 Hours

Duration: 32 Hours

Module Overview: The module enables the learner to acquire practical skills in creating and delivering effective PowerPoint presentations, as well as establishing and managing a basic local area network (LAN) with at least two computers. Learners will gain hands-on experience in formatting presentations, using animations, and connecting and configuring network components for resource sharing such as printers and files.

Learning Outcome

By the end of this module, the learner should be able to:

• Connect at least two computers to one local area network
• Share a printer across the network

Competences

Detailed Module Description

Sub-module	Content	Duration
8. PowerPoint Presentations	Creating a new presentation Opening and closing a presentation Saving a presentation document Transferring a presentation to storage media and different formats Adding and formatting text, pictures, and media Creating and running a slideshow Printing presentation slides	14 Hours
9. Basic Networking	Introduction to computer networking Types of networks: WAN and LAN Types of communication media: cables, wireless, optical fibres LAN topologies: star, ring, mesh, bar Connecting a computer to a network Configuring an IP address Creating a simple network of at least two computers Sharing files between computers Troubleshooting simple connection problems Connecting and configuring a printer on a network	18 Hours

A computer is an electronic device that receives data (input), processes it according to a set of instructions (program), and produces output (information). Computers are widely used in education, health, business, engineering, and personal tasks due to their speed, accuracy, and efficiency.

Over time, computers have evolved from large, complex machines into compact and portable devices. Common types include:

• Desktop Computers: Fixed systems used in offices and homes.
• Laptops: Portable computers for work on the go.
• Tablets: Touchscreen devices combining features of phones and computers.
• Embedded Systems: Computers built into devices like washing machines or ATMs.

The keyboard consists of several key types:

• Function Keys: F1–F12, used for shortcuts.
• Navigation Keys: Arrows, Home, End, Page Up/Down for cursor movement.
• Numeric Keypad: Used for quick data entry.

To start a computer, press the power button and wait for the operating system to boot. Log in using your user account. When finished, always use the shutdown or restart options available through the Start Menu to properly turn off the system and avoid damaging data.

Understanding these basics lays the foundation for more advanced skills like working with applications, managing files, and performing basic maintenance tasks.

An Operating System (OS) is system software that manages computer hardware, software resources, and provides common services for programs. Examples include Windows, macOS, Linux, and Android.

Functions of an OS include managing files, controlling peripherals (printer, scanner), handling memory, and coordinating processor tasks. Operating systems are classified into single-user, multi-user, real-time, and distributed systems.

Installing an OS like Windows requires a bootable installation media. The process involves selecting the partition, formatting it, and following setup instructions. Application software like MS Word, Excel, and browsers are installed afterward.

The desktop is the main screen area that you see after you start your computer. It includes the Start Menu, taskbar, icons, and background. The Start Menu allows access to programs, settings, and power options.

Users can personalize their desktops by changing the wallpaper and setting screen savers. Windows can be resized, maximized, minimized, and arranged using the taskbar. Files can be copied from devices like USBs and DVDs to desktop folders.

Desktop icons represent shortcuts to files, folders, or applications. Learning how to identify and use them improves navigation and productivity.

Word processing involves creating, editing, saving, and printing text documents using software like Microsoft Word. It enables users to produce professional reports, letters, and forms.

To start, launch the Word application, choose a blank document or template, and begin typing. Editing tools include cut, copy, paste, and undo/redo. Formatting tools let users change font size, style, color, and alignment.

Documents can be saved in different formats (.docx, .pdf) and stored on devices such as flash drives. Additional features include inserting tables, charts, pictures, and using mail merge for bulk letter printing.

In this course unit, we will be mainly working with MS Office 2007. Therefore, it is worth looking at the features introduced or enhanced in MS Office 2007.

Microsoft Office 2007

The Microsoft Office 2007 system is the most recent version of Microsoft's productivity suite. It was released to business customers on November 30, 2006, and made available to retail customers on January 30, 2007, coinciding with the formal launch of Windows Vista. Office 2007 contains several new features, applications, and server-side tools.

Features

There are a number of new features in Microsoft Office 2007, including the updated user interface, SmartArt graphics, new file formats, an enhanced user assistance system, collaboration tools, themes, quick styles, and more.

New User Interface

The result-oriented User Interface (UI) is featured in core Microsoft Office applications: Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access, and in the item inspector used in Outlook.

Office 2007 Button

The Office 2007 button, located at the top-left of the window, replaces the traditional File menu from Office 2003. It provides access to functions common across all Office applications, including opening, saving, printing, and sharing files. It also allows users to customize the interface with different color schemes.

Start Microsoft Office Word 2007

To launch Microsoft Word 2007, click the Word icon on the desktop or in the Quick Launch toolbar, or navigate through the Start menu to All Programs → Microsoft Office → Microsoft Word 2007.

Methods to Launch Microsoft Word 2007:

1. From the Desktop: Locate and double-click the Word 2007 icon.

2. From the Quick Launch Toolbar: Click the Word 2007 icon near the Start button.

3. From the Start Menu: Start → All Programs → Microsoft Office → Microsoft Word 2007.

Start Entering Text into Your Blank Document

This activity describes how to enter text into your document. Type the following text in your newly created Word document.

Useful Hints:

• Press the Enter key to insert a blank line between paragraphs.
• Use the Space key to insert spaces between two words.
• Use the Enter key only to start a new paragraph or line.
• Use the Space key only for single spaces between words.
• Use the Tab key to indent the text.

Save Your Word Document

To save your Word document, you can follow any of these methods:

1. Click the Microsoft Office button.
2. Select Save.
3. OR click the Save icon in the Quick Access Toolbar, or press Ctrl + S.
4. The "Save As" dialog will appear.
5. Select the location to save the file.
6. Enter a file name.
7. Click Save.

Figure 11.9: Save a document (Office Button, Save button in Quick Access Toolbar, Save options)

Close Word Document and Exit Microsoft Word

To close your document:

1. Click the Office button.
2. Click Close.

To exit Microsoft Word:

1. Click the Office button.
2. Click Exit.

Open an Existing MS Word Document

To open an existing Word document:

1. Click the Office button.
2. Click Open.
3. The file open window will appear.
4. Navigate to the file location.
5. Select the file name.
6. Click Open.