Introduction to Essential Digital Skills – suitable for beginners!

Computer Skills, ICT or Digital Skills are the many different names used but they all mean the same thing. Developing your knowledge, will help you to access a range of resources and services online.

Computer skills can help you keep in touch with friends and family, improve at work, help to improve your employability chances and help with improving your computer knowledge and know-how for everyday life.

This FREE short course (5 weeks with the option to continue for a total of 12 weeks) is the perfect introduction for those who are feeling left behind in this internet age and want to know how to use a Windows computer to access the wealth of information that can be found on the internet. It is aimed at those who have no, or very little, knowledge of computers and how to get online.

In plain non-technical language, it will take you through the very basics of what a computer is, how to operate it and look at how to use your computer to access and use the internet to; search for information, access online services like banking, benefits, taxes, passports and other government services. how to shop online and how to access social media to keep in touch with friends and family.

It will also look at the importance of having an email account in the online world, how to get your own email account (for free) and how to send and receive emails.

The course will have a mix of taught and practise sessions to help embed your new skills and covers the following topics:

• What a computer is and the different types of computers available

• Using a keyboard, mouse, and touchpad

• Understanding the Windows 10 screen

• How to find and open different applications

• How to access the internet and search using your computer

• How to save websites you visit regularly

• Staying safe on the internet and understand what can be trusted

• Accessing online services, filling out online forms to book appointments, holidays, apply for jobs etc.

• Online shopping

• How to save things to your computer – and find them again!