
This lesson introduces the learner to the goals and objectives of the course, defines the target audience and briefly discusses what will be covered in the remainder of the course.
In this lesson the learner is introduced to the principle components of a personal computer. With their newly acquired vocabulary the learner is able to successfully complete the remainder of the course. Additionally, the learner will become a more informed computer consumer.
This lesson covers safe internet navigation, responsible social media interactions and the best methods for downloading applications.
In this lesson the learner is introduced to the Windows operating system. They learn how to launch, drag, resize and minimize windows. The File Explorer application is reviewed with the learner introduced to libraries, folders and files.
In this lesson the learner is taught how to create an email account, compose and send an email, and how to properly respond to an email.
In this lesson the learner is taught the differences between Microsoft's Word and Google's Docs applications. The value of word processing is then addressed. The lesson culminates with a demonstration of how to best utilize word processing applications.
This lesson begins with a discussion of the value and power of spreadsheet applications. The differences between Microsoft's Excel and Google Sheets applications is then addressed. The lesson concludes with a demonstration of how to best utilize a spreadsheet application.
This lesson discusses the various personal computer peripherals available to the consumer and which might best benefit the learner.
In this lesson the learner will be taught how to use Microsoft's Photos application to edit their pictures. Additionally, the learner will be taught how to use Microsoft's Clipchamp application to create and edit their videos.
This lesson summarizes the goals and objectives of the course within the framework of benefits to the learner.
Fundamental Computing Skills for the Digital Middle Age aims to enable leaners to better utilize their personal computers and become better PC consumers. Course topics include: email etiquette, the secure and socially responsible use of the internet, the Windows operating system and it’s associated library, folder and file system, word processing techniques, utilizing spreadsheets to store, organize and present information, personal computer peripherals and which ones are essential versus just nice to have and finally elementary photo and video editing.
No prior experience or knowledge of personal computers is required. Anyone interested in better utilizing their personal computer is encouraged to consider the course. The Microsoft office suite is recommended for the course but not required as the alternative Google software is free and available to everyone.
This course is an update to an earlier course taught by Dr. Phillips. The update was warranted due to the significant amount of change which has occurred in the field of personal computing.
This course is taught by Rick Phillips and is one of 9 courses he currently has active on Udemy. Rick has over 65,000 student enrollments and his courses are very well reviewed.
Rick holds a Ph.D. from the University of Wisconsin in visual psychophysics with a graduate minor in computer science. Rick worked his entire professional career in IT culminating as Chief Technology Officer for Castle Worldwide, an online training and testing company.