UNIVERSITY FOR DEVELOPMENT STUDIES

FACULTY OF INTEGRATED DEVELOPMENT STUDIES

DEPARTMENT OF ECONOMICS AND ENTREPRENUERSHIP STUDIES

LECTURE NOTES COURSE ID: EED 311 COURSE TITLE: Introduction to Computers and Computing

PREPARED BY: Mark Atta Mensah (BSc. Computer Science) Senior Research Assistant University for Development Studies Faculty of Integrated Development Studies Department of Economics and Entrepreneurship Studies

OUTLINE OF COURSE
Course Description
With no c omputer experience assumed, the course will expose students to the understanding and application of knowledge in computers in relation to processing of documents as well as undertaking simple quantitative analyses. The course content covers types of computers, the computer hardware, the computer software, handling computers including safety precautions, operating systems, booting, Windows, Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft PowerPoint presentation and Microsoft Access. By way of undertaking simple quantitative analyses, students are introduced to IBM SPSS.

Objective
The objectives for Introduction to Computers and Computing will enable the student to use the computer effectively in a multitude of academic scenarios. Understand the basic parts of a computer system and their relationships Master the basic functions of the Windows operating system Understand and use basic computer terminology Master print commands to produce attractive hard copies of work Design document layouts that are creative and properly formatted Master the basic uses and procedures of word processing software Master the basic uses and procedures of spread sheet software Master the basic uses and procedures of presentation software Master the basic uses and procedures of specialised software IBM SPSS Understand the rules and etiquette of Internet access and how to source for relevant information from the internet Master the basic uses and procedures of Internet software

The course is will provide practical appreciation of computers and computing. It is also expected to give students the interest to further develop and apply their skills in learning activities and subsequently in their working environments.

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Outline of Topics
1. Introduction to Computers and Information Processing Cycle What are Computers Advantages and Limitations About hardware and Software Information Processing Cycle Data and Information The Role and types of Computers Parts of a Computer Using a Computer Using a Keyboard Using a Mouse 2. Introduction to Internet What is the Internet? Types of Information you can access Moving through a Web page Hyperlinks Internet Browsers Internet addresses (URLs) Communicating Using the Internet Searching the Web A Basic Search Searching with Google Evaluating Websites Commonly used Internet terms 3. Word Processor About a Word Processor Introduction to Microsoft Word Creating and Managing Files Editing and Formatting Text Formatting Pages and Printing a Document Creating Tables and adding graphics Working with Styles Working with Long Documents Creating Table of Contents, List of Tables and Figures and Page numbering. 4. Spread sheet About a Spread sheet Working with the Excel Interface Basic Workbook Skills Formatting a Worksheet Managing Worksheets Creating and Modifying Charts ii | P a g e

 Using Formulas and Functions Printing Worksheets Using the Help Function 5. Presentation (Graphics) Software Introduction to Microsoft PowerPoint Exploring the User Interface Creating, Saving and Closing Presentation Formatting a Presentation Inserting Images Viewing a Presentation in different ways Previewing and Printing a Presentation Essential tips for a successful Presentation 6. SPSS Statistics Introduction to SPSS Starting SPSS Statistics Introducing the SPSS Interface Entering and modifying Data Descriptive Statistics Data Manipulation Reports Charting your Data Mode of Assessment: Practical Exercises (*Assignments Inclusive): Mid-Trimester Examination End of Trimester Examination 10% 15% 75%

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UNIT 1: Introduction to Computers and Computing

INTRODUCTION Definition: A Computer is an electronic device that can perform activities that involve Mathematical, Logical and graphical manipulations. Generally, the term is used to describe a collection of devices that function together as a system. It performs the following three operations in sequence. 1. It receives data & instructions from the input device. 2. Processes the data as per instructions. 3. Provides the result (output) in a desired form.

Advantages of computers:
High speed: Computers have the ability to perform routine tasks at a g reater speed than human beings. They can perform millions of calculations in seconds. Accuracy: Computers are used to perform tasks in a way that ensures accuracy. Storage: Computers can store large amount of information. Any item of data or any instruction stored in the memory can be retrieved by the computer at lightning speeds. Automation: Computers can be instructed to perform complex tasks automatically (which increases the productivity). Diligence: Computers can perform the same task repeatedly & with the same accuracy without getting tired. Versatility: Computers are flexible to perform both simple and complex tasks. Cost effectiveness: Computers reduce the amount of paper work and human effort, thereby reducing costs.

Limitations of computers:
Computers need clear & complete instructions to perform a task accurately. If the instructions are not clear & complete, the computer will not produce the required result. Computers cannot think. Computers cannot learn by experience.

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Generations of Computers
Generation First Generation (1946-1954 ) Second Generation (1955-1965) Third Generation (1968-1975 ) Fourth Generation ( 1976-1980) Component used Vacuum tubes

Transistors Integrated Circuits (IC) Very Large Scale Integrated Circuits (VLSI) Fifth Generation (1980 till today ) Ultra Scale Integrated Circuits (ULSI) Micro Processor (SILICON CHIP)

Hardware and Software

Hardware: Computers work through an interaction of hardware and software. Hardware refers to the parts of a computer that you can see and touch, including the case and everything inside it. The most important piece of hardware is a tiny rectangular chip inside your computer called the central processing unit (CPU), or microprocessor. It's the "brain" of your computerthe part that translates instructions and performs calculations. Hardware items such as your monitor, keyboard, mouse, printer, and other components are often called hardware devices, or devices. Software: It refers to the instructions, or programs, that tell the hardware what to do. The most important software on the computer is the operating system, which controls and manages the hardware connected to your computer. The operating system provides an interface that helps you to interact with the computer. A word processing program that you can use to write letters on your computer is a type of software. The operating system (OS) is software that manages your computer and the devices connected to it. Two well-known operating systems are Windows and Macintosh operating system. There are three categories of software namely: Systems Software: These are programs that coordinate the activities and functions of the hardware and other programs. The system software acts as a mediator between application programs and the computer systems hardware, as well as between the PC and the user. The system software makes the physical machine do work. E.g. Operating Systems, translators etc. Utility Software: It is system software designed to help analyse, configure, optimize or maintain a computer. A single piece of utility software is usually called a utility or tool. Utility software usually focuses on how the computer infrastructure (including the computer hardware, operating system, and application software and data storage) operates. E.g. Anti-virus utilities, disk defragmenters, disk checkers, Data compression utilities etc. Application Software: is the software which allows users to do things like creating text documents, playing games, listening to music or viewing websites. They help users solve particular computing

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problems or allow a user to perform specific tasks on a computer. The application software makes the system software do work. Examples are, Microsoft Office Adobe Photoshop Windows and other Media Player Web Browsers like Internet Explorer, Firefox, Chrome

ANATOMY OF COMPUTERS
The computer system consists of three units: 1. Input device 2. Central Processing Unit (CPU) 3. Output device

Block diagram of a Computer:

CENTRAL PROCESSING UNIT Memory Unit

INPUT DEVICE

ALU

OUTPUT DEVICE

Control Unit The various functions of these units can be summarized as: Unit 1. Input device: 2. CPU a) Memory unit: b) Arithmetic Logic unit: c) Control Unit : 3. Output device: Stores program and data Performs arithmetic and logical functions Interprets program instructions and controls the input and output devices decodes information and presents it to the user Function Reads information from input media and enters to the computer in a coded form

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MEMORY OF THE COMPUTER

Memory or storage capacity is one of the important components of a computer. Any storage unit of a computer system is classified on the basis of the following criteria: 1. Access time: This is the time required to locate and retrieve stored data from the storage unit in response to program instructions. 2. Storage capacity: It is the amount of data that can be stored in the storage unit. 3. Cost per bit of storage. Units of memory: The computer stores a character in the storage cells with binary (0, 1) mechanism. Thus the basic unit of memory is a bit (binary digit 0, 1). To store a character, a computer requires 8 bits or 1 byte. This is called the word length of the storage unit. Hence the storage capacity of the computer is measured in the number of words it can store and is expressed in terms of bytes. The different units of measurement are 8 Bits = 210 (or) 1024 KB 210 (or) 1024 MB 1 Byte = 1 Mega Byte (MB) = 1 Giga Byte (GB)

210 (or) 1024 Bytes = 1 Kilo Byte (KB)

Types of Memory:
A computer memory is of two types; 1. Primary Memory (Internal Storage): Primary memory is also called internal memory and is an important part of a computer. It is the main area in a computer where the data is stored. The stored data can be recalled instantly and correctly whenever desired. This memory can be quickly accessed by the CPU for reading or storing information. Primary memory is further classified into two types: Random Access Memory (RAM) Read- Only Memory (ROM )

RAM: RAM is also known as read/write memory as information can be read from and written onto it. RAM is a place in a computer that holds instructions for the computer, its programs and the data. The CPU can directly access the data from RAM almost immediately. However, the storage of data and instructions in RAM is temporary, till the time the computer is running. It disappears from RAM as soon as the power to the computer is switched off i.e. it is volatile memory.

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ROM: It is called Read-only memory as information can only be read from and not written or changed onto ROM. ROM is the built-in-memory of a computer. It stores some basic input output instructions put by the manufacturer to operate the computer. The storage of data and instructions in ROM is permanent. It does not depend on the power supply i.e. it is non-volatile memory. 2. Secondary Memory (External storage): The primary memory which is faster (and hence expensive) is generally not sufficient for large storage of data. A s a result, additional memory, called the auxiliary or secondary memory is used. It is also referred as backup storage as it is used to store large volume of data on a p ermanent basis which can be transferred to the primary memory whenever required for processing. Data are stored in secondary storage in the same binary codes as in the main (primary memory) storage. Some of the devices of secondary storages are Floppy Disk, Hard Disk, CD-ROM, DVD and Flash drive.

Information Processing Cycle

This refers to the series of identifiable steps the computer goes through to accept and process data into information, store the information for future use, and/or share it with others. This process is divided into four (4) basic steps, which include; Input, Process, Output, Storage, and communication. Input: -This is any data or instruction you enter into a computer. This is done by means of input devices. The six commonly used input devices are, the keyboard, mouse, scanner, microphone, digital camera, and PC camera Process: - this is the interpretation and manipulation performed on d ata and instructions to produce a result (information). This task is performed by the Central Procession Unit (CPU). Output: - This is any data that has been processed into information. The output devices of the computer are responsible for this task, examples of which include; monitor, printer, and speakers. Storage: - This is an area in a computer that can hold data and information for future use. Examples of the commonly used storage devices include; Hard Disk drive (HDD), Compact disk (CD), DVD, Floppy Disk Drive, and Pen Drives. 5|Page

Data and Information

Data All computer processing requires data, which is a collection of raw facts, figures and symbols given to the computer during the input phase. Example: Names of students and their marks in different subjects listed in random order. Information Computers manipulate data to create information. Information is data that is processed and presented in an organized, meaningful manner for use. Example: When the names of students are arranged in alphabetical order, total and average marks are calculated & presented in a tabular form, it is information. During the output phase, the information that has been created is put into some form, such as a printed report. The information can also be put in computer storage for future use.

Parts of a computer
A computer is a system of many parts working together. The physical parts, which you can see and touch, are collectively called hardware. (Software, on t he other hand, refers to the instructions, or programs, that tell the hardware what to do.) The illustration below shows the most common hardware in a desktop computer system. A laptop computer has similar parts but combines them into a single notebook-sized package.

Desktop computer system

System unit
The system unit is the core of a computer system. Usually it's a rectangular box placed on or underneath your desk. Inside this box are many electronic components that process information. The most important of these components is the central processing unit (CPU), or microprocessor, which acts as the "brain" of your computer. Another component is random access memory (RAM), which temporarily stores 6|Page

information that the CPU uses while the computer is on. The information stored in RAM is erased when the computer is turned off. Almost every other part of your computer connects to the system unit using cables. The cables plug into specific ports (openings), typically on the back of the system unit. Hardware that is not part of the system unit is sometimes called a peripheral device or device.

System unit

Storage
Your computer has one or more disk drivesdevices that store information on a metal or plastic disk. The disk preserves the information even when your computer is turned off.

Hard disk drive

The computer's hard disk drive stores information on a hard disk, a rigid platter or stack of platters with a magnetic surface. Because hard disks can hold massive amounts of information, they usually serve as your computer's primary means of storage, holding almost all of your programs and files. The hard disk drive is normally located inside the system unit.

Hard disk drive 7|Page

CD and DVD drives

CD-ROM stands for Compact DiskRead Only Memory. It is used to store a wide variety of information. Its main advantage is that it is portable and can hold a large amount of data. The storage capacity of most CD-ROMs is approximately 650 MB or 700 MB. CD-ROMs have the following variations: a) CD-R (Compact disc Recordable): Data can be written onto it just once. The stored data can be read. Data once written onto it cannot be erased. b) CD-RW (Compact disc Rewritable): It is also called erasable CD. Data once written onto it can be erased to write or record new information many times. To use a CD-ROM, a device called CD drive is needed.

CD-ROM

CD Drive

DVD stands for Digital Versatile Disc. It is similar to a CD-ROM, except that it can store larger amounts of data. The storage capacity of a D VD is at least 4.7GB. DVDs that can store up t o 17GBs are also available. Because of their capacity, DVDs are generally used to store a v ery large multimedia presentations and movies that combine high quality sound and graphics.

Floppy disk drive

Floppy disk drives store information on floppy disks, also called floppies or diskettes. Compared to CDs and DVDs, floppy disks can store only a small amount of data. They also retrieve information more slowly and are more prone to damage. For these reasons, floppy disk drives are less popular than they used to be, although some computers still include them.

Floppy disk

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Why are floppy disks "floppy"? Even though the outside is made of hard plastic, that's just the sleeve. The disk inside is made of a thin, flexible vinyl material.

Mouse
It is a device that controls the movement of the cursor on a monitor. A mouse will have 2 buttons on its top. The left button is the most frequently used button. There will be a wheel between the left and right buttons. This wheel enables us to smoothly scroll through screens of information. As we move the mouse, the pointer on the monitor moves in the same direction. Optical mouse is another advanced pointing device that uses a light emitting component instead of the mouse ball. Mouse cannot be used for entering the data. It is only useful to select the options on the screen.

Mouse A mouse usually has two buttons: a primary button (usually the left button) and a secondary button. Many mice also have a wheel between the two buttons, which allows you to scroll smoothly through screens of information.

When you move the mouse with your hand, a pointer on your screen moves in the same direction. (The pointer's appearance might change depending on where it's positioned on your screen.) When you want to select an item, you point to the item and then click (press and release) the primary button. Pointing and clicking with your mouse is the main way to interact with your computer.

Keyboard
The Key board is used for typing text into the computer. It is also known as standard Input device. A computer keyboard is similar to that of a type writer with additional keys. The most commonly available computer keyboard has 104 keys. There are different types of keys on the keyboard. The keys are categorized as: Alphanumeric keys, including letters & numbers. Punctuation keys, such as colon (:), semicolon (;) Question mark (?), Single & double quotes (,) Special keys such as arrow keys, control keys, function keys (F1 to F12), HOME, END etc.

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Keyboard

You can also use your keyboard to perform many of the same tasks you can perform with a mouse.

Monitor
A monitor displays information in visual form, using text and graphics. The portion of the monitor that displays the information is called the screen. Like a television screen, a computer screen can show still or moving pictures. There are two basic types of monitors: CRT (cathode ray tube) monitors and LCD (liquid crystal display) monitors. Both types produce sharp images, but LCD monitors have the advantage of being much thinner and lighter. CRT monitors, however, are generally more affordable.

LCD monitor (left); CRT monitor (right)

Printer
A printer transfers data from a computer onto paper. The two main types of printers are inkjet printers and laser printers. Inkjet printers are the most popular printers. They can print in black and white or in full colour and can produce high-quality photographs when used with special paper. Laser printers are faster and generally better able to handle heavy use.

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Inkjet printer (left); laser printer (right)

Speakers
Speakers are used to play sound. They may be built into the system unit or connected with cables. Speakers allow you to listen to music and hear sound effects from your computer.

Computer speakers

Modem
To connect your computer to the Internet, you need a modem. A modem is a device that sends and receives computer information over a telephone line or high-speed cable. Modems are sometimes built into the system unit, but higher-speed modems are usually separate components.

Cable modem

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Types of computers
Computers range in size and capability. Different types of computers are available in the market today. The most common computer is the Personal Computer (PC), typically used by individuals and small businesses. A personal computer is a computer that is designed for use by one person at a time. A personal computer is used in the workplace to create documents, manage business records, and communicate with others. It is used in schools to teach lessons, research over the Internet, and work on assignments. You can also use a personal computer to play games, view videos, and listen to music. Depending on the size and the purpose of a personal computer, it can be categorized into four different types: desktop, laptop, handheld, or tablet. You select a computer depending on the tasks that you want it to perform. For example, if you want to use the computer to edit photos or play complex games, you need a computer with a fast CPU and a good display adapter.

Desktop computers
Desktop computers are designed for use at a desk or table. They are typically larger and more powerful than other types of personal computers. Desktop computers are made up of separate components. The main component, called the system unit, is usually a rectangular case that sits on or underneath a desk. Other components, such as the monitor, mouse, and keyboard, connect to the system unit.

Desktop computer

Laptop computers
Laptop computers are lightweight mobile PCs with a t hin screen. They are often called notebook computers because of their small size. Laptops can operate on batteries, so you can take them anywhere. Unlike desktops, laptops combine the CPU, screen, and keyboard in a single case. The screen folds down onto the keyboard when not in use.

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Laptop computer

Handheld computers
Handheld computers, also called personal digital assistants (PDAs), are battery-powered computers small enough to carry almost anywhere. Although not as powerful as desktops or laptops, handhelds are useful for scheduling appointments, storing addresses and phone numbers, and playing games. Some have more advanced capabilities, such as making telephone calls or accessing the Internet. Instead of keyboards, handhelds have touch screens that you use with your finger or a stylus (a pen-shaped pointing tool).

Handheld computer

Tablet PCs
Tablet PCs are mobile PCs that combine features of laptops and handhelds. Like laptops, they're powerful and have a built-in screen. Like handhelds, they allow you to write notes or draw pictures on the screen, usually with a tablet pen instead of a stylus. They can also convert your handwriting into typed text. Some Tablet PCs are convertibles with a screen that swivels and unfolds to reveal a keyboard underneath.

Tablet PC

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The Role of Computers

Computers play a major role in our daily lives. They are used in industries, schools, government offices, and shops. You can use computers to communicate with your family and friends, create a household budget, book travel and movie tickets, or manage your business. In business and industry, you use computers to maintain accounts, create personnel records, track inventory, prepare presentations and reports, manage projects, and communicate by e-mail. You can use computers to design any type of publication ranging from simple newsletters to fashion magazines, marketing materials, books, or newspapers. In the field of education, trainers can use computers to deliver training through audio-visual learning aids, maintain student records to track performance, search for information on different topics, and create or submit assignments. In government organizations, you use computers to organize information by storing and updating records. Computers are also used for providing services to citizens. For example, you can view information on current policies and government issues on a computer. In the field of medicine, doctors use computers to review medical records of patients. Doctors also use computers to find information about the latest drugs available to treat a disease. Doctors can also use computer technology to discuss and share information about various diseases. You can use computers to view the details of your bank account. Traders use computer technology to get instant information on stock markets, to trade stocks, and to manage investments. Scientists use computers for scientific research, and to gather and analyse information. For example, they use computers to view images from space and to publish information on their recent research. You can also use computers to create drawings and paintings. Photographers use computers to edit and enhance pictures. Writers use computers to write content for their books and to also create illustrations. By using computers, writers can make changes in the content easily and save a lot of time. In the field of entertainment, you can use computers to listen to music, watch movies, store and print photographs, send greetings, and play games.

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Using the Computer

To turn on a computer, press the power button on the system unit. When you turn on the computer, lights on the keyboard may blink briefly and you may also hear a beep. This is an indication that the power-on self-test (POST) has started. The computer performs a sequence of quick tests to check whether the motherboard, memory, hard drive, and other components are working. If you hear a s eries of beeps, the monitor may display a message indicating that a component is not functioning. For example, if the keyboard cable is not attached, an error message may report that there is no keyboard detected. After POST, the computer starts the operating system, and then displays the logon screen. You now log on to the Microsoft Windows 7 operating system. The operating system allows you to instruct the computer what to do after you have turned it on. The operating system controls the computers hardware and also manages the computers operations and tasks, such as logging on, logging off, and shutting down. For example, to log on to Windows 7, you need to type your user name and password. The settings for the user account are applied and you are now logged on to Windows 7. After you log on, you can perform various tasks, such as creating a new file or modifying an existing file. After performing the required tasks, you need to save the changes you made to the file. You can then log off from Windows 7. To log off, you need to click Start, and then click Log Off. To securely turn off your computer, you must shutdown Windows 7. To do this, you need to click Start, and then, at the bottom of the Start menu, click the Shutdown button. If you encounter problems while using the computer, you can choose the Restart option to restart the computer. To do this, click Restart in the Shutdown Windows dialog box. On most computers, you should never use the actual power button on the front of the system unit to turn off the computer unless it stops responding.

Using the Keyboard

Whether you're writing a letter or entering numerical data, your keyboard is the main way to enter information into your computer. This article covers the basics of keyboard operation and gets you started with keyboard commands. 15 | P a g e

Organisation of Keyboard Keys

The keys on your keyboard can be divided into several groups based on function:

Typing (alphanumeric) keys. These keys include the same letter, number, punctuation, and symbol keys found on a traditional typewriter.

Control keys. These keys are used alone or in combination with other keys to perform certain actions. The most frequently used control keys are CTRL, ALT, the Windows logo key , and ESC.

Function keys. The function keys are used to perform specific tasks. They are labelled as F1, F2, F3, and so on, up to F12. The functionality of these keys differs from program to program.

Navigation keys. These keys are used for moving around in documents or webpages and editing text. They include the arrow keys, HOME, END, PAGE UP, PAGE DOWN, DELETE, and INSERT.

Numeric keypad. The numeric keypad is handy for entering numbers quickly. The keys are grouped together in a block like a conventional calculator or adding machine.

The following illustration shows how these keys are arranged on a typical keyboard. Your keyboard layout may differ.

How the keys are arranged on a keyboard

Using keyboard shortcuts

Keyboard shortcuts are ways to perform actions by using your keyboard. They're called shortcuts because they help you work faster. In fact, almost any action or command you can perform with a mouse can be performed faster using one or more keys on your keyboard. 16 | P a g e

In Help topics, a plus sign (+) between two or more keys indicates that those keys should be pressed in combination. For example, CTRL+A means to press and hold CTRL and then press A. CTRL+SHIFT+A means to press and hold CTRL and SHIFT and then press A.

Find program shortcuts

You can do t hings in most programs by using the keyboard. To see which commands have keyboard shortcuts, open a menu. The shortcuts (if available) are shown next to the menu items.

Keyboard shortcuts appear next to menu items Useful shortcuts The following table lists some of the most useful keyboard shortcuts.

Press this Windows logo key ALT+TAB ALT+F4 CTRL+S

To do this Open the Start menu

Switch between open programs or windows Close the active item, or exit the active program Save the current file or document (works in most

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programs) CTRL+C CTRL+X CTRL+V CTRL+Z CTRL+A F1 Windows logo key ESC Application key +F1 Cancel the current task Open a m enu of commands related to a selection in a program. Equivalent to right-clicking the selection. Copy the selected item Cut the selected item Paste the selected item Undo an action Select all items in a document or window Display Help for a program or Windows Display Windows Help and Support

Using navigation keys

The navigation keys allow you to move the cursor, move around in documents and webpages, and edit text. The following table lists some common functions of these keys.

Press this LEFT ARROW,

To do this RIGHT Move the cursor or selection one space or line in the direction of the arrow 18 | P a g e

ARROW, UP ARROW, or the direction of the arrow, or scroll a webpage in DOWN ARROW

HOME

Move the cursor to the beginning of a line or move to the top of a webpage

END

Move the cursor to the end of a line or move to the bottom of a webpage

CTRL+HOME CTRL+END PAGE UP PAGE DOWN DELETE

Move to the top of a document Move to the bottom of a document Move the cursor or page up one screen Move the cursor or page down one screen Delete the character after the cursor, or the selected text; in Windows, delete the selected item and move it to the Recycle Bin

INSERT

Turn Insert mode off or on. When Insert mode is on, text that you type is inserted at the cursor. When Insert mode is off, text that you type replaces existing characters.

Using the numeric keypad

The numeric keypad arranges the numerals 0 through 9, the arithmetic operators + (addition), (subtraction), * (multiplication), and / (division), and the decimal point as they would appear on a calculator or adding machine. These characters are duplicated elsewhere on the keyboard, of course, but the keypad arrangement allows you to rapidly enter numerical data or mathematical operations with one hand.

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Numeric keypad To use the numeric keypad to enter numbers, press NUM LOCK. Most keyboards have a light that indicates whether NUM LOCK is on or off. When NUM LOCK is off, the numeric keypad functions as a second set of navigation keys (these functions are printed on the keys next to the numerals or symbols). You can use your numeric keypad to perform simple calculations with Calculator. Three odd keys So far, we've discussed almost every key you're likely to use. But for the truly inquisitive, let's explore the three most mysterious keys on t he keyboard: PRINT SCREEN, SCROLL LOCK, and PAUSE/BREAK. PRINT SCREEN (or PRT SCN) A long time ago, this key actually did what it s aysit sent the current screen of text to your printer. Nowadays, pressing PRINT SCREEN captures an image of your entire screen (a "screen shot") and copies it to the Clipboard in your computer's memory. From there you can paste it (CTRL+V) into Microsoft Paint or another program and, if you want, print it from that program. Tip Press ALT+PRINT SCREEN to capture an image of just the active window, instead of the entire screen. SCROLL LOCK (or SCR LK) In most programs, pressing SCROLL LOCK has no effect. In a few programs, pressing SCROLL LOCK changes the behaviour of the arrow keys and the PAGE UP and PAGE DOWN keys; pressing these keys causes the document to scroll without changing the position of the cursor or selection. Your keyboard might have a light indicating whether SCROLL LOCK is on. 20 | P a g e

PAUSE/BREAK This key is rarely used. In some older programs, pressing this key pauses the program or, in combination with CTRL, stops it from running. Other keys Some modern keyboards come with "hot keys" or buttons that give you quick, one-press access to programs, files, or commands. Other models have volume controls, scroll wheels, zoom wheels, and other gadgets. For details about these features, check the information that came with your keyboard or computer, or go to the manufacturer's website. Tips for using your keyboard safely Using your keyboard properly can help avoid soreness or injury to your wrists, hands, and arms, particularly if you use your computer for long periods of time. Here are some tips to help you avoid problems:

Place your keyboard at elbow level. Your upper arms should be relaxed at your sides. Centre your keyboard in front of you. If your keyboard has a numeric keypad, you can use the spacebar as the centring point. Type with your hands and wrists floating above the keyboard, so that you can use your whole arm to reach for distant keys instead of stretching your fingers. Avoid resting your palms or wrists on any type of surface while typing. If your keyboard has a palm rest, use it only during breaks from typing. While typing, use a light touch and keep your wrists straight. When you're not typing, relax your arms and hands. Take short breaks from computer use every 15 to 20 minutes.

Using the Mouse

Just as you would use your hands to interact with objects in the physical world, you can use your mouse to interact with items on your computer screen. You can move objects, open them, change them, throw them away, and perform other actions, all by pointing and clicking with your mouse. A mouse can therefore be defined as a small device that you can use to move, select, and open items displayed on your monitor. Basic parts A mouse typically has two buttons: a primary button (usually the left button) and a secondary button (usually the right button). The primary button is the one you will use most often. Most mice also include a scroll wheel between the buttons to help you scroll through documents and webpages more 21 | P a g e

easily. On some mice, the scroll wheel can be pressed to act as a third button. Advanced mice might have additional buttons that can perform other functions.

Parts of a mouse Holding and moving the mouse

Place your mouse beside your keyboard on a clean, smooth surface, such as a mouse pad. Hold the mouse gently with your index finger resting on the primary button and your thumb resting on the side. To move the mouse, slide it slowly in any direction. Don't twist itkeep the front of the mouse aimed away from you. As you move the mouse, a pointer (see picture) on your screen moves in the same direction. If you run out of room to move your mouse on your desk or mouse pad, just pick up the mouse and bring it back closer to you.

Hold the mouse lightly, keeping your wrist straight Pointing, clicking, and dragging Pointing to an item on t he screen means moving your mouse so the pointer appears to be touching the item. When you point to something, a small box often appears that describes the item. For example, when you point to the Recycle Bin on the desktop, a box appears with this information: "Contains the files and folders that you have deleted." 22 | P a g e

Pointing to an object often reveals a descriptive message about it The pointer can change depending on what you're pointing to. For example, when you point to a link in your web browser, the pointer changes from an arrow to a hand with a pointing finger .

Most mouse actions combine pointing with pressing one of the mouse buttons. There are four basic ways to use your mouse buttons: clicking, double-clicking, right-clicking, and dragging.

Clicking (single-clicking)
To click an item, point to the item on the screen, and then press and release the primary button (usually the left button). Clicking is most often used to select (mark) an item or open a menu. This is sometimes called singleclicking or left-clicking.

Double-clicking
To double-click an item, point to the item on the screen, and then click twice quickly. If the two clicks are spaced too far apart, they might be interpreted as two individual clicks rather than as one double-click. Double-clicking is most often used to open items on your desktop. For example, you can start a program or open a folder by double-clicking its icon on the desktop.

Right-clicking
To right-click an item, point to the item on the screen, and then press and release the secondary button (usually the right button). Right-clicking an item usually displays a list of things you can do with the item. For example, when you right-click the Recycle Bin on your desktop, Windows displays a menu allowing you to open it, empty it, delete it, or see its properties. If you're ever unsure of what to do with something, right-click it

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Right-clicking the Recycle Bin opens a menu of related commands

Dragging
You can move items around your screen by dragging them. To drag an object, point to the object on the screen, press and hold the primary button, move the object to a new location, and then release the primary button. Dragging (sometimes called dragging and dropping) is most often used to move files and folders to a different location and to move windows and icons around on your screen.

Using the scroll wheel

If your mouse has a scroll wheel, you can use it to scroll through documents and webpages. To scroll down, roll the wheel backward (toward you). To scroll up, roll the wheel forward (away from you).

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Unit 2: Introduction to the Internet

What is the Internet?
The Internet stands for INTERnational NETwork. It is simply millions of computers linked across the world by telecommunications - telephone lines, cables, satellites, optic fibres, etc. This means that countries with well-established communication systems are better able to take advantage of the Internet. The Internet was originally set up in the 1960s for use by the US Department of Defence to decentralize its network of computers. In the 1980s, universities began using the system for transmitting data and educational resources. Since the development of the World Wide Web in 1991, t he use of the Internet has expanded rapidly. This has enabled the transfer of photos, videos and sound, as well as text and made it much easier to send information around the world.

Types of Information you can access

The Internet provides access to a wide variety of information contributed by people throughout the world. On the Internet, a user can access: Documents, such as business plans, fact sheets, supplier catalogues, legislation and statistics Electronic books, journals and newspapers for news and current awareness Databases, such as Telephone directories, Census data and commercial databases Software and multimedia resources such as films and music Social networking sites such as Facebook, Twitter, MySpace, YouTube

Moving through a Web page

Use the scrollbar on the right side of the web page to move down or up through the web page. Use the horizontal scrollbar on the bottom on the page, to move from side-to- side. Or you can use the vertical arrow keys, located on the computer keyboard, to move down or up through the web page.

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Hyperlinks
On an Internet page, images, words or anything else can be set as a link. Web links are also commonly known as hyperlinks. Hyperlinks are underlined or bordered words and graphics that have web addresses embedded in them. Hyperlinks are the basis of the Webs versatility. By clicking a hyperlink, you jump to a particular page in a web site, or to a different Web site altogether. By clicking on a hyperlink you are surfing the web.

How do I know if I have found a hyperlink?

Kingston Library Service

Kingston Library Service

non-hyperlink

hyperlink

Any time you see the mouse arrow pointer change to a pointing finger it signals a link (hyperlink) you can follow by clicking on it. When you click, the colour of the link changes

Internet Browsers
An Internet browser is a software program that you use to access the Internet and view web pages on your computer. It converts HTML (computer language) into text and graphics for you to view on the screen. Some common internet browsers include: Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox and Google Chrome.

Internet Explorer

Mozilla Firefox

Google Chrome

Browsers allow you to move back and forwards between web pages, store a list of your favorite sites, and refresh information on the screen.

Internet addresses (URLs)

An Internet address (sometimes called an URL or Universal Resource Locator or Web Address.)

Every resource available via the World Wide Web has a unique address. When you are viewing a web page, the page's address appears in the Address field in the
browser.

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. http://www.uds.edu.gh.
Country code World Wide Web Domain name Domain type

An Internet address typically starts with the www or http followed by the name of the organization, a domain name: a suffix which identifies the kind of organization it is, and a country code (US sites do not have country codes). Australias country code is au.

Some of the major domain type that you will encounter:

Address Suffix Organization type .com / .co .edu / .ac .net .org .gov .mil commercial colleges and universities network providers non-government organizations government military

STEPS TO ENTERING A WEBSITE ADDRESS (URL).

1. Click in the address bar. 2. Type the website address in. Addresses are not case sensitive. Parts of the address are separated by full stop or slashes, with no spaces. You do not have to type the text http:// 3. Press the Enter button. - this appears automatically. An address can be typed over by highlighting the text in the address bar.

Communicating Using the Internet

The Internet offers a great alternative to conventional methods of communication. It allows us to communicate quickly and easily with friends and family from anywhere in the world. The most common and widely used method of communication using the Internet is Email. E-mail allows you to electronically send a letter directly to other people and organizations. To use e-mail you will need the following: 1. a web address for your service provider (e.g. www.hotmail.com)

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2. your unique ID and password (you get this when you set up an account your e- mail address to give to other people who wish to communicate with you. Your e- mail address will look similar to: superstar@hotmail.com Free web-based email services: Name Hotmail Yahoo Mail Website address www.hotmail.com www.mail.yahoo.com

Google Mail www.gmail.com

Social networking sites

They are websites that allow people to interact with other users. These websites are a virtual community for people interested in sharing information or just to "hang out" together. Two popular sites are www.facebook.com and www.myspace.com Blogs are websites that allow people to set up their own personal pages or blogs on the site, which act like personal diaries. Blogs may include descriptions of events and things along with materials such as photos or video. A poplar blogging site is www.blogger.com

Finding Information in the Internet

The three basic mediums of access to information on the internet are; The Global Digital Library Search engine Portals

Global Digital Library

Internet provides a Global Digital Library Digital Library: This refers to a large storehouse of digital information is accessible through computers. Includes many forms of information: Text Graphics Conversations Sound Still and Moving pictures

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Types of Internet Services

The Internet contains many diverse services. These include the following; Transfers information Browses for information Searches for information Purchases goods Interacts with others

Finding Information
Amount of information on the Web is growing rapidly. Users do not know the URLs of all pages containing the information they are looking for. So, users are more likely to start from a URL and surf the web using its link graph. Two common types of link graph: High quality human maintained indices: e.g. portals Automatically generated indices: e.g. search engines

Searching the Web

There are several ways of getting to a web page: 1. Typing in the exact address 2. Searching for the web site or information, usually on a Search Engine 3. Surfing - clicking on hyperlinks and finding sites by chance.

Search Engines and Search Directories

Search Engines are computer programs (called robots or spiders) that constantly review information put on the Internet. There are many search engines, but probably the best known is Google: www.google.com

Search Engine Functionality

An automated search service allows users to find information that resides on remote computers. Search engines basically perform the following tasks: gather information store it locally Automatically locate: Web pages associated with a particular company or individual Web pages that contains information about a particular product or brand Web pages that contain information about a particular topic 29 | P a g e

A Search Tool Can Help Recover From Loss

Automated search tools help users recover quickly when the location of information is lost. How lost can occur; Suppose that just after discovering page, a thunderstorm interrupts power, use a search tool to find the page automatically

Automatic Search Engine

Automatic search engine: Produces a list of candidate pages that may contain information users want. A search server gathers information and stores it on a local disk; when responding to a users request it does not need to search the entire Internet. consists of three components: occur. web robot (also known as crawler or spider) indexing engine Query engine.

Gathering information before use makes lookup fast, but information can become incorrect if changes

How an Automated Search Service Operates

(1) Before users invoke the search engine, a spider program automatically contacts web sites and obtains a list of available items. (2) When users use a browser to contact the search engine, the server consults the database on its local disk.

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Web robot
This is a program that; keeps a list of URLs usually obtained from the following sources: 1) manually added, 2) by scanning USENET news and mailing lists, and 3) by scanning through documents retrieved from the above URLs. Keeps the retrieved documents up to date. Traverses the URLs in the list on a regular basis, say once a week, and retrieves the documents for indexing. (periodically contacts all computers on the Internet to obtain a new list of available items)

Indexing system
The index engine performs the following tasks; Scan the documents for stop-words (words that are neutral to content indication such as `is', `the', `be' and `am'). Generate the indexes and store them in an index database.

Query engine
looks for the keywords specified in the user queries in the index database Retrieves the associated documents in a ranked list.

Examples:
Google: http://www.google.com AltaVista: http://altavista.digital.com Excite: http://www.excite.com Lycos: http://www.lycos.com More info: Search Engine Showdown; http://www.searchengineshowdown.com provides organized comparison charts, reviews, strategies to searching among different search engines.

String matching
The simplest automated search mechanism is string matching. The user enters a topic, the search engine finds Web pages that contain that topic string. Advantage: Simplicityjust type in the words. Disadvantages: Lack of semantics. The program does not understand the meaning of words or phrases. 31 | P a g e

return too many low quality matches can be fooled by advertisers: Pornographic sites may provide false key words that will allow them to show up on unr elated searches Some search engines have been known to accept payment to give certain Web sites higher priorities.

Lack of semantics A string matching program does not understand meaning of words or phrases i.e. will not report pages that contains synonyms or related terms A string matching program does not understand the meaning of the word not. The program matches irrelevant sentences to request for information. E.g., This sentence does not contain any information about biology, money, or foods like butter and milk, and certainly is not about automobile pictures, airline fares, lawyer jokes, opera singers, or library books. The above sentence matches queries for automobile, airline, etc.; but is irrelevant to these topics

Advanced Search
Multi-key search: - Allows users to enter two or more keywords in a search string E.g., 2-key search: car automobile This will find pages that mentioned either automobile or car Some services offer the opportunity to give more detailed specifications. E.g., words or phrases that must appear on a page

Human Maintained Lists

Portal is a Web site or service that offers a broad array of resources and services, such as e-mail, forums, search engines, and on-line shopping malls. The first Web portals were online services, such as AOL, that provided access to the Web. Today portals also offer a wide range of customization options and functionality including: customized news bookmark managers to save favourite web sites e.g. Yahoo: www.yahoo.com Portals can be differentiated as: 1. Horizontal portals are general interest portals. They cover a wide range of topics and features, such as Yahoo! or Lycos. 32 | P a g e

They are combinations of internet access and access to a wide range of information, as with AOL, Excite@Home,

2. Vertical or niche portals or vortals are portals which focused on a given topical category, or catering to a given demographic (ethnic groups, age groups, and other groups which are perceived to form a community or market) E.g. ivillage (aimed at women); guru.com (for independent professionals); and Boatscape (for boat enthusiasts). More info: see portal FAQ http://www.traffick.com/story/07-2000-portalfaq.asp Advantage: Cover popular topics effectively Disadvantage: Subjective, expensive to build and maintain slow to improve cannot cover all esoteric topic (knowledge that is specific to a restricted group of people)

Search Directories are selected lists of websites organised into broad categories. Yahoo Directory http://au.dir.yahoo.com/ Google Directory http://www.google.com/dirhp/

A Basic Search
All Search Engines provide an area on the screen where you can type in the word or words you wish to search for: 1. You send your request by typing in a word or group of words and pressing Enter. 2. After a few seconds, the Search Engine will return from its search and present you with a new screen known as the Results Screen. 3. The exact layout and format of the Results Screen will vary according to the Search Engine you used, but generally you will receive: The number of documents that 'matched' your query terms. A list of the first ten results (note: at the bottom of the screen you will find a button to take you to the next ten). A Name or Title, a brief description that helps you identify whether the reference found might contain the information you required. The web address of the file (URL). A file size, so you can tell how large the document is and how long it will take to load. 33 | P a g e

Once you have read the list of references and found one that looks promising, click on the highlighted title and your Browser will retrieve that file for you from the Internet. When you have finished viewing the site, click the Back button on your Browser to return to the results list.

Searching with Google

Type web address for Google in the Address bar. www.google.com

Address bar

Type search Term(s) here

Im feeling lucky button: automatically takes you to a single website that Google thinks is the most relevant. Example of a results page after Google has been searched for the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

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Evaluating Websites
It is important to remember that anybody can publish information on the Internet. So, for example, if you conduct a search on whales, your results may include information published by a group of school children, university professors or a save the whales lobby group. You need to evaluate information you find on the internet. Some important aspects to consider in evaluating websites are: 1. Source: who is the author (individual or organization) responsible for the website or document? 2. Audience: who is the information aimed at?

Commonly used Internet terms

Bookmarks: A feature of the Web browser that allows an individual to store favourite URLs. Browser: The software required to access the hypertext links of Web pages. M icrosoft Internet Explorer and Mozilla Firefox are the most widely-used browsers. Discussion List: Mailing Lists or Electronic Conferences operate through E-mail. You subscribe or sign up to specific subject discussion lists and regularly receive emails any time someone sends a post or email to the discussion list. Facebook www.facebook.com A popular social networking website where you can add photos and information about yourself, send friends messages, and see what your friends are doing. Flickr www.flickr.com An online photo management and sharing application that allows you to store, sort, search and share photos and videos online. Home page: The first page or the main page of a website. Typically provides introductory information and serves as a table of contents to other information stored at the site. HTML or HyperText Markup Language. The language used to create web pages and which allows users to follow links between sites.

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HTTP or HyperText Transfer Protocol is set of instructions defining how web pages are transferred between machines. ISP (Internet Service Provider) is an organization providing access to the Internet on a fee for service basis. Customers are generally billed a fixed rate per month, but other charges may apply. Micro blog is a short blog about one's daily adventures, which evolved into the extremely successful Twitter. Netiquette: A collection of good manners guidelines for network applications such as email, telnet and newsgroups. Netiquette information can be found in most guides to the Internet as well as in the FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) of most Newsgroups. Newsgroups: Similar to discussion lists except you are not required to subscribe to join in and they are often more fun than academic. Search Engines: An Internet tool, which searches web pages and other Internet resources for criteria, which you provide. Skype: Software that allows users to make voice calls over the Internet. Calls made within Skype setting are free of charge. Although Skype also supports calls that connect to conventional telephones, there are charges for those calls. Social Networking- A Web site that provides a virtual community for people interested in a particular subject or just to "hang out" together. Members create their own online "profile" with biographical data, pictures, likes, dislikes and any other information they choose to post. They communicate with each other by voice, chat, instant message, videoconference and blogs. Spam (junk mail): Unsolicited email sent indiscriminately to multiple individuals or mailing lists. The mails are often of a commercial nature. URL: Uniform Resource Locator. The addressing system used by the Internet so websites can be identified. It is like a house address. Virus: a harmful computer program that is downloaded from the internet which can infect a computer.

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Web browser: See Browser Software Web Site: A page containing information written in HTML, which may incorporate text, graphics and multimedia. Wiki: A wiki is a collaborative website that allows anybody to add to, or edit, the information on the site. YouTube www.youtube.com Watch video clips that others have added to the website. You add your own clips for others to view

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