OLT 578 Journal Entry 4

Introduction to Computers is an overview of computer office applications including current terminology and technology; and it is an introduction to computer hardware, software applications, and procedures. My institution has set course learning objectives which are the overall course goals. The learning outcomes for each unit will map back to one of these outcomes.

Course Learning Objectives

1. Organize, manage, and communicate information using software applications such as word processing, spreadsheet, presentation, and database software.
2. Identify and describe the key components and the relationships between computer hardware, networks, system and application software.
3. Recognize and evaluate ethical, privacy, and security issues related to using computers in society.

Below is a listing of each unit in this course, a description of what is covered in each unit, and the student learning objectives for each unit that will span each chapter covered by that unit.

Unit 1 – Your Digital Foundation

Your Digital Foundation provides coverage of computer basics, networking and working online, file management best practices, and cloud storage. Topics covered include a discussion of hardware versus software; software management (installing, updating, uninstalling, etc.); conducting online searches; finding, storing, and organizing information; backing up your data to cloud storage with OneDrive; and more.

Unit 1 Learning Objectives

By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:

• Define basic computer concepts
• Understand computer hardware/software basics
• Define operating systems and computer file management techniques
• Explore application software and multimedia software/hardware
• Understand basic computer architecture terms, i.e., CPU, RAM, I/O, etc.
• Identify computer networks
• Understand Internet basics including email and search engines
• Explore computer security issues
• Use backup and restore features
• Explore anti-virus software
• Research technology trends

Unit 2 – Microsoft Word

Microsoft Word is a word-processing software used to create, edit, format, and share documents, such as letters, reports, essays, and business plans.

Unit 2 Learning Objectives

By the end of this unit, learners will be able to perform the following tasks using Microsoft Word:

• Enter, select, and edit text
• Create and format a table
• Format text and apply styles
• Add footnotes and endnotes
• Insert citations and a bibliography
• Incorporate captions and a table of figures
• Insert comments and use Track Changes
• Add pictures, text boxes, WordArt, shapes, SmartArt, and special effects to a document
• Perform a mail merge and deal with problems

Unit 3 – Microsoft Excel

Microsoft Excel is a spreadsheet software, arranged with rows and columns, used to perform calculations and analyze numerical data. Use Excel to prepare a budget or income statement, or to determine the amount of interest paid on a loan.

Unit 3 Learning Objectives

By the end of this unit, learners will be able to perform the following tasks using Microsoft Excel:

• Apply number and date formats
• Use formulas to perform calculations
• Use relative and absolute cell references
• Define names for cells and ranges in formulas
• Insert charts and use chart tools
• Add images to a worksheet
• Create a template
• Sort and filter data and create IF functions
• Create and modify tables

Unit 4 – Microsoft PowerPoint

Microsoft PowerPoint is a presentation software used to create, edit, format, and share slides designed to tell a story; market a product; or explain a concept.

Unit 4 Learning Objectives

By the end of this unit, learners will be able to perform the following tasks using Microsoft PowerPoint:

• Use the spelling checker and other review features
• Apply themes and templates
• Use Outline View to create, move, and delete slides and edit text
• Create a presentation from a Word outline
• Add pictures, screenshots, shapes, and artistic effects to a presentation
• Add audio and video to a presentation