The Basics of Computer: Building a Solid Foundation for Computer Literacy & Awareness
This comprehensive beginner-friendly course is designed to equip learners with essential computer skills needed for academic, professional, and personal growth. Starting with an introduction to computers, students will learn about hardware, software, operating systems, and how to perform basic operations such as file management, internet browsing, and email usage. The course then progresses into practical applications of Microsoft Office tools, including Word for document creation, PowerPoint for engaging presentations, and Excel for basic data entry, calculations, and simple analysis.
In addition to productivity tools, learners will gain fundamental knowledge of computer networking, understanding how devices connect and share information. The course also introduces basic graphic design using Canva, enabling participants to create visually appealing flyers, posters, and social media content. By the end of the program, students will have built a solid foundation in digital literacy, empowering them to work confidently with computers and digital tools in both educational and workplace settings.
Complete beginners with little or no prior experience using computers.
Primary, Secondary school and university students who need digital skills to support their studies.
Job seekers and entry-level professionals looking to improve their computer literacy for workplace success.
Small business owners and entrepreneurs who want to use technology for business operations, marketing, and communication.
Teachers, trainers, and administrative staff seeking to strengthen their productivity with digital tools.
Adults and lifelong learners who want to confidently use computers for personal, academic, or professional purposes.
Definition of a Computer
Brief History and Evolution of Computers
Types of Computers (desktop, laptop, tablets, smartphones)
Importance and Applications of Computers in Everyday Life
Hardware (Input, Output, Storage, Processing devices)
Software (System software vs. Application software)
Peripheral Devices (keyboard, mouse, printer, USB drives, etc.)
Starting and Shutting Down a Computer Properly
Introduction to the Operating System (Windows/Mac/Linux basics)
The Desktop: Icons, Taskbar, Start Menu, and File Explorer
Using a Mouse (click, right-click, double-click, drag and drop)
Using a Keyboard (basic keys, shortcuts, typing practice)
Creating, Saving, Opening, and Closing Files/Folders
Copying, Moving, and Deleting Files
Introduction to Word Processing (MS Word basics)
Basic Internet Usage (Opening a browser, navigating websites, search engines)
Introduction to Email (creating and sending an email)
Computer Care and Maintenance (cleaning, safe handling of devices)
Importance of Antivirus and Updates
Basic Cybersecurity Awareness (strong passwords, safe browsing)
Typing and Mouse Practice (simple games or apps)
Create a Folder and Save a Document
Browse the Internet for Information
Send a Sample Email to the Instructor
Shutdown and Restart Computer
Quiz on Computer Basics
Short Practical Test
Q&A / Feedback Session
Unit 1: Introduction to Microsoft Word
Unit 2: Working with Text
Unit 3: Formatting Documents
Unit 4: Page Layout and Design
Unit 5: Working with Tables and Graphics
Unit 6: Proofing and Reviewing Tools
Unit 7: Advanced Features
Unit 8: Preparing Documents for Printing and Sharing
Unit 9: Practical Projects
Unit 10: Course Review and Assessment
What is PowerPoint and its uses
Exploring the PowerPoint interface (Ribbon, Tabs, Slides Pane, Notes Pane)
Creating, saving, opening, and closing presentations
Understanding slide views (Normal, Slide Sorter, Reading, Slide Show)
Creating a new presentation (Blank & Templates)
Adding, duplicating, deleting, and rearranging slides
Applying themes and design templates
Choosing slide layouts (title, content, comparison, blank, etc.)
Inserting text in placeholders and text boxes
Formatting fonts, colors, and sizes
Using bullet points and numbered lists
Aligning and spacing text for readability
Inserting and formatting shapes, icons, and SmartArt
Adding pictures and screenshots
Working with charts and tables
Layering and grouping objects
Applying and customizing themes
Using slide backgrounds (colors, gradients, images)
Working with slide masters for consistency
Creating custom slide layouts
Applying slide transitions
Adding animations to text and objects
Setting animation timing and order
Best practices for professional animations
Inserting audio and video files
Adding screen recordings
Using hyperlinks and action buttons
Embedding YouTube videos or online media
Spell check and proofing tools
Adding comments
Collaboration and co-authoring in PowerPoint
Comparing two presentations
Slide show setup (timings, rehearsing, custom shows)
Using Presenter View (notes, laser pointer, zoom)
Printing slides, handouts, and notes pages
Exporting to PDF and video formats
Create a company profile presentation
Design a school/academic project presentation
Create a product or event pitch presentation
Prepare a multimedia slideshow with images, audio, and video
Review of PowerPoint essentials
Hands-on assessment
Q&A and feedback session
Definition: A network is a group of two or more computers connected together to share resources.
Examples of resources: files, printers, and internet connections.
LAN (Local Area Network): Small network within a building (e.g., office, school).
WAN (Wide Area Network): Large network that spans cities or countries (e.g., the Internet).
PAN (Personal Area Network): Network for personal devices (e.g., laptop + phone with Bluetooth).
Client: A computer or device that requests services (e.g., browsing websites on a laptop).
Server: A computer that provides services or resources (e.g., web server, file server).
Unit 4: Networking Devices & Media
Router: Connects multiple networks and directs traffic.
Switch: Connects multiple computers in a LAN.
LAN Cable (Ethernet): A physical wire for fast, stable connections.
Wi-Fi: Wireless technology that connects devices without cables.
Steps to create a simple network:
Connect computers with LAN cables.
Plug cables into a router or switch.
Configure basic network settings.
Test the connection using ping or file sharing.
What is graphic design? (basics: color, typography, layout, balance)
Why Canva? (advantages and uses)
Setting up a Canva account (free vs. pro)
Exploring the Canva dashboard and interface
Canva templates overview (social media, posters, flyers, resumes, etc.)
Working with text: fonts, sizes, alignment, spacing
Color theory basics (color harmony, branding colors)
Shapes, lines, and icons
Adding and editing photos (resize, crop, filters)
Using Canva’s stock photos vs. uploading your own
Backgrounds: solid colors, gradients, and images
Adding videos and audio (for presentations/social media content)
Understanding grids and alignment
White space and balance in design
Grouping, layering, and arranging elements
Best practices for professional layouts
Social Media Posts (Instagram/Facebook)
Posters and Flyers
Presentations (PowerPoint-style slides in Canva)
Business Cards and Simple Logos
Certificates and Invitations
Using Brand Kit (logos, fonts, and colors)
Magic Resize tool for multiple platforms
Canva AI tools (text-to-image, background remover, etc.)
Creating animations and GIFs
Collaboration and sharing designs
File formats (JPEG, PNG, PDF, MP4, GIF) and when to use each
Download quality settings (standard vs. high resolution)
Sharing directly to social media
Team collaboration and project links
Design a personal logo
Create a simple business flyer
Make a professional resume with Canva
Design a social media campaign (3–5 posts)
Create a presentation for a business pitch or school project
Maintaining consistency (fonts, colors, branding)
Avoiding clutter and over-design
Accessibility and readability tips
Staying creative while using templates
Review of key Canva tools and design concepts
Final project: Create a complete design package (logo, flyer, and social media post)
Presentation of student projects
Q&A and feedback session
Springlight Digital Academy Offers the best online courses for everyone looking for digital skills in technology, data analytics, graphic design, project management and many more
#1 Enen Afaha Street, Uyo, Nigeria
08132722283
© 2025 Springlight Academy. All Rights Reserved.