IT Fundamental Bootcamp

The development of computers has sped up over the last few decades, as has our reliance on them. Computers and electronics now play a key role in almost all fields of technology, research, business, art and more. As a result, understanding the operations that a simple computer can perform has become a critical skill in almost all aspects of life. This IT course explores the fundamental aspects of computers, including the basic functions performed by their hardware and software components.

We first examine the evolution and history of electronics before outlining the applications and uses of computers. The course lays out the general structure of computers, the roles of hardware and software and the technology that allows mass data storage. We discuss operating systems, their various types and the different ways you can maintain your computer.

Introduction

In today’s digital age, basic computer skills are essential for personal and professional development. This proposal outlines a comprehensive Basic Computer Training Program designed to equip participants with fundamental computer skills.

Objectives

• To introduce participants to basic computer operations and concepts.
• To enhance digital literacy for improved efficiency in daily tasks.
• To provide hands-on training in essential software applications.
• To prepare participants for further advanced computer studies.

Expected Outcomes

Participant(s) will gain confidence in using computers for everyday tasks.
Improved job prospects and digital proficiency.
A foundation for further advanced IT training.

Course Content/Outline

1. Introduction to Computers: Hardware and Software
a. Module 1: Introduction to Computers
b. Module 2: Computer Hardware
c. Module 3: Computer Software
d. Module 4: Operating Systems
e. Module 5: Data Storage and File Management
f. Module 6: Computer Maintenance and Safety
g. Assessment / Hands-On Activities

2. Operating Systems (Windows/macOS Basics)
a. Module 1: Introduction to Operating Systems
b. Module 2: Getting Started with Windows
c. Module 3: Getting Started with macOS
d. Module 4: Common Features and Tools
e. Module 5: Basic System Maintenance
f. Module 6: Customization and Accessibility
g. Module 7: Networking and Internet
h. Assessment & Review

3. File Management and Basic Troubleshooting
a. Module 1: Introduction to File Management
b. Module 2: Organizing Files and Folders
c. Module 3: Storage Devices and Cloud Services
d. Module 4: Searching and Managing Files
e. Module 5: File Compression and Backup
f. Module 6: Introduction to Troubleshooting
g. Module 8: Troubleshooting Software and System Issues
h. Module 9: Internet and Network Troubleshooting
i. Assessment & Review

4. Internet and Email Usage
a. Module 1: Introduction to the Internet
b. Module 2: Web Browsers and Navigation
c. Module 3: Effective Internet Searching
d. Module 4: Downloading and Uploading Files
e. Module 5: Online Safety and Privacy
f. Module 6: Introduction to Email
g. Module 7: Sending and Receiving Emails
h. Module 8: Organizing Your Inbox
i. Module 9: Email Etiquette and Best Practices
j. Module 10: Email Security and Troubleshooting
k. Assessment & Review

5. Introduction to Microsoft Office
Module 1: Introduction to Microsoft Office Suite
a. Overview of Microsoft Office applications
b. Common interface features (ribbons, toolbars, etc.)
c. Saving, opening, and sharing files
d. OneDrive and cloud integration

Module 2: Microsoft Word Basics
a. Creating, opening, and saving documents
b. Formatting text, paragraphs, and pages
c. Using styles, headers/footers, and page numbers
d. Bullets, numbering, and tables
• Spell check and basic proofreading tools

Module 3: Microsoft Excel Basics
• Understanding the Excel interface
• Entering data and formatting cells
• Basic formulas and functions (SUM, AVERAGE, etc.)
• Creating and editing simple charts
• Sorting and filtering data

Module 4: Microsoft PowerPoint Basics
• Creating a new presentation
• Working with slides, layouts, and themes
• Inserting text, images, charts, and videos
• Applying transitions and animations
• Preparing a slideshow for presentation

Module 5: Microsoft Outlook Basics
• Navigating the Outlook interface
• Composing, replying, and organizing emails
• Managing contacts and address book
• Using the calendar for scheduling
• Setting reminders and tasks

Module 6: Practical Application and Integration
• Real-world tasks using multiple apps together
• Exporting Word content into PowerPoint
• Embedding Excel charts in Word documents
• Attaching files and scheduling via Outlook

6. Microsoft One Drive
a. Module 1: Introduction to Cloud Storage and OneDrive
b. Module 2: Uploading and Managing Files
c. Module 3: File Sharing and Permissions
d. Module 4: Real-Time Collaboration
e. Module 5: OneDrive Sync and Offline Access
f. Module 6: Security and Backup Features
g. Assessment & Practice

SECTION 2

1. Online Safety and Cybersecurity Basics
Module 1: Introduction to Cybersecurity
a. What is cybersecurity?
b. Why online safety matters
c. Real-world examples of cyber threats

Module 2: Types of Cyber Threats
d. Malware, viruses, ransomware
e. Phishing and social engineering
f. Identity theft and scams

Module 3: Personal Online Safety
g. Creating strong passwords
h. Using two-factor authentication
i. Securing personal devices

Module 4: Safe Internet Browsing
j. Identifying secure websites (HTTPS)
k. Avoiding unsafe downloads
l. Recognizing fake websites and popups

Module 5: Email and Messaging Safety
m. How to spot phishing emails
n. Avoiding scams in texts and social media
o. Safe attachment and link practices

Module 6: Social Media & Digital Footprint
p. Managing privacy settings
q. Understanding what to share (and what not to)
r. How data is collected and used

Module 7: Device & Network Security
s. Updating software and antivirus
t. Using VPNs and firewalls
u. Backups and recovery basics

Module 8: Practical Safety Tools
v. Password managers
w. Antivirus programs
x. Browser privacy extensions

2. iCloud management (storage issues)

Module 1: Introduction to iCloud
a. What is iCloud and how it works
b. Apple ID vs. iCloud
c. Devices and platforms supported

Module 2: Setting Up iCloud
d. Creating and managing an Apple ID
e. Enabling iCloud on iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Windows
f. Choosing what to sync (Photos, Contacts, Calendar, etc.)

Module 3: iCloud Storage & Plans
g. Free vs. paid iCloud+ plans
h. How to upgrade/downgrade
i. Managing storage space
j. Understanding what takes up space (Photos, iCloud Drive, Backups, etc.)

Module 4: iCloud Photos
k. Enabling and using iCloud Photos
l. Optimize iPhone storage vs. download originals
m. Shared albums and photo sharing
n. iCloud Photos vs. My Photo Stream

Module 5: iCloud Drive
o. How iCloud Drive works
p. Accessing files across devices
q. Sharing files and folders
r. Using iCloud Drive on Windows and web

Module 6: Backups & Device Management
s. iCloud Backup vs. iTunes Backup
t. What’s included in a backup
u. Managing device backups
v. Restoring from iCloud

Module 7: iCloud Keychain & Passwords
w. What is iCloud Keychain?
x. Storing and syncing passwords securely
y. Using Safari password autofill
z. Managing passwords in iOS and macOS

Module 8: Find My iPhone / Find My Device
aa. How “Find My” works
bb. Enabling/disabling
cc. Using it for lost or stolen devices
dd. Activation Lock and its importance

Module 9: Family Sharing & Shared Features
ee. What is Family Sharing?
ff. Sharing purchases, subscriptions, and storage
gg. Screen Time and parental controls

Module 10: Privacy, Security & Troubleshooting
hh. iCloud privacy settings
ii. Managing app access
jj. Apple ID recovery and trusted devices
kk. Common problems and how to fix them

3. Google drive
Module 1: Introduction to Google Drive
a. What is Google Drive?
b. How cloud storage works
c. Free vs paid storage (Google One)
d. Navigating the Drive interface (Web & Mobile)

e. Module 2: Setting Up Google Drive
f. Creating a Google account
g. Accessing Drive on web, Android, iOS
h. Drive vs My Drive vs Shared Drives

Module 3: Uploading & Managing Files
i. Uploading files and folders
j. Creating new Docs, Sheets, Slides
k. Organizing with folders and color coding
l. File preview and version history

Module 4: Sharing & Permissions
m. Sharing files and folders
n. Viewer, commenter, editor roles
o. Generating shareable links
p. Stopping sharing and managing access

Module 5: Collaboration Tools
q. Real-time editing with Docs, Sheets, and Slides
r. Comments, suggestions, and tagging others
s. Working with Google Meet and Drive
t. Using activity dashboard and notifications

Module 6: Drive Search & Shortcuts
u. Using search filters (file type, owner, date, etc.)
v. Advanced search options
w. Starring and shortcuts for quick access

Module 7: Google Drive on Mobile Devices
x. Drive mobile app features
y. Offline access
z. Scanning documents from the phone
aa. Syncing with Google Photos

Module 8: Integrations & Add-ons
bb. Integrating with Gmail, Calendar, and Google Classroom
cc. Using third-party add-ons (e.g., DocuSign, Lucidchart)
dd. Connecting Drive with Microsoft Office files

Module 9: Storage Management & Security
ee. Checking and managing storage space
ff. Removing duplicates and large files
gg. Setting up 2-Step Verification for account security
hh. Understanding Google’s privacy and sharing policies

Module 10: Troubleshooting & Best Practices
ii. Common issues and how to fix them
jj. Backing up files
kk. Best practices for organization and naming
ll. Final quiz or challenge activity

4. Gmail storage
Module 1: Understanding Gmail Storage
a. Google’s 15GB free limit: what’s included (Gmail, Drive, Photos)
b. How storage is calculated
c. Accessing the Google storage dashboard

Module 2: Identifying What’s Taking Up Space
a. Finding large emails and attachments
b. Using search filters to locate space hogs
c. Sorting by size, label, or category

Module 3: Cleaning Up Your Gmail
a. Deleting large and unnecessary emails
b. Bulk delete tips using filters and search
c. Managing Trash and Spam folders
d. Archiving vs. deleting

Module 4: Managing Attachments
a. Downloading and removing attachments without deleting emails
b. Using Google Drive to store and link large files
c. Google’s “Save to Drive” and “Open with” features

Module 5: Organizing Your Gmail for Long-Term Efficiency
a. Creating labels and filters
b. Automating cleanup using filters
c. Prioritizing inbox using tabs and categories
d. Unsubscribing from unnecessary emails and newsletters

Module 6: Google One & Upgrading Storage
a. When to consider upgrading storage
b. Overview of Google One plans
c. Benefits of Google One (sharing with family, support, VPN, etc.)

Module 7: Preventing Future Clutter
a. Setting up filters for auto-labeling and auto-archiving
b. Managing subscriptions with third-party tools (e.g., Unroll.me)
c. Best practices for long-term storage management

Module 8: Gmail Storage on Mobile Devices
a. Managing Gmail via mobile
b. Clearing Gmail cache (Android/iOS tips)
c. Using the Gmail app’s “Storage Manager” features

5. Virus protection (Anti-Virus Software ( how to identify a threat or suspicious activity on computer)

Module 1: Introduction to Viruses & Malware
a. What is a computer virus?
b. Difference between viruses, worms, trojans, ransomware, spyware, and adware
c. Real-world examples and impact (data loss, identity theft, slow performance)

Module 2: How Viruses Spread
d. Infected email attachments and phishing links
e. Fake software and free downloads
f. USB drives and external devices
g. Social engineering tricks

Module 3: Signs of Infection
h. Slow computer performance
i. Unexpected pop-ups or apps
j. Antivirus or firewall disabled
k. Data loss or unauthorized access

Module 4: Antivirus & Anti-Malware Software
l. What antivirus software does
m. Free vs paid antivirus tools
n. How real-time protection works
o. Top antivirus tools: Windows Defender, Avast, Bitdefender, Malwarebytes, Norton

Module 5: Installing and Using Antivirus Software
p. How to choose antivirus software
q. Installing and activating it
r. Performing full and quick scans
s. Setting up automatic updates and scans

Module 6: Best Practices for Virus Prevention
t. Avoiding suspicious links and downloads
u. Don’t open unknown attachments
v. Keeping OS and software up to date
w. Using strong passwords and 2FA

Module 7: Handling an Infection
x. What to do if your device is infected
y. Running virus scans in Safe Mode
z. Using bootable rescue tools
aa. When to seek professional help

Module 8: Beyond Antivirus: Layered Protection
bb. Firewalls
cc. Secure browsers and extensions
dd. Sandboxing and virtualization for safe testing
ee. Email filtering tools

6. Basic troubleshooting (Software and Hardware)
Module 1: What is Troubleshooting?
a. Definition and goals
b. Importance of a calm, step-by-step approach
c. The golden rule: “Try turning it off and on again”

Module 2: Common Computer Problems & Fixes
d. Computer won’t start or boot properly
e. Screen freezing or crashing
f. Programs not responding
g. Slow performance and what to check

Module 3: Internet & Network Troubleshooting
h. Wi-Fi not connecting
i. Slow or dropping connections
j. Resetting modem/router
k. Using built-in network troubleshooters (Windows/macOS)

Module 4: Printer, Keyboard & Peripheral Issues
l. Device not detected
m. Reinstalling or updating drivers
n. USB or Bluetooth connection problems
o. Troubleshooting steps for printers not printing

Module 5: Mobile Device Troubleshooting
p. App crashes or slow phone
q. No signal or dropped calls
r. Storage issues and cleanup
s. When to force restart or reset settings

Module 6: Software Troubleshooting
t. Program won’t install or open
u. Error messages: reading and Googling them effectively
v. Software updates and compatibility issues

Module 7: Safe Mode & System Tools
w. Using Safe Mode (Windows/macOS)
x. Task Manager / Activity Monitor
y. Disk Cleanup, Storage Management
z. System Restore and Recovery options

Module 8: When to Get Help
aa. Recognizing hardware failure
bb. Knowing what info to give support (error messages, system specs, steps taken)
cc. Backing up before doing deeper fixes
dd. Scenarios where professional help is needed

7. Introduction to Apple Computer and usage
Module 1: Introduction to Apple Computers
a. What is macOS?
b. Types of Apple computers: MacBook Air, Pro, iMac
c. Key differences from Windows
d. Overview of Apple ecosystem (macOS, iPhone, iCloud)

Module 2: Getting Started with Your Mac
e. Turning on and setting up
f. Understanding the desktop, menu bar, and Dock
g. The Finder: what it is and how it works
h. Launchpad and Spotlight search

Module 3: Mouse, Trackpad, and Keyboard Basics
i. Basic Mac keyboard shortcuts
j. Using gestures (trackpad & Magic Mouse)
k. Right-clicking and scrolling tips
l. Adjusting system preferences

Module 4: Managing Files and Folders
m. Creating, moving, renaming files
n. Using Finder windows, tags, and views
o. Working with external storage (USB, hard drives)
p. Deleting and recovering files (Trash & Time Machine basics)

Module 5: Working with macOS Apps
q. Safari (web browsing & privacy tips)
r. Mail (setting up email accounts)
s. Calendar, Notes, Reminders, and Contacts
t. Using Preview for PDFs and images
u. Installing apps from the App Store

Module 6: System Preferences & Settings
v. Setting up Wi-Fi and internet
w. Adding user accounts
x. Adjusting display, sound, and accessibility
y. Updating macOS and checking for system updates

Module 7: iCloud & Apple ID Basics
z. What is iCloud?
aa. Setting up and using Apple ID
bb. Syncing files, photos, and Safari across devices
cc. iCloud Drive and iCloud Photos basics

Module 8: Staying Secure on Your Mac
dd. macOS built-in security features
ee. App permissions and Gatekeeper
ff. Using Touch ID or passwords
gg. Backups with Time Machine

8. Visual and Virtual Presentation
This course introduces the key features, best practices, and troubleshooting tips for Zoom, Skype, Google Meet, and Microsoft Teams—the essential communication tools in today’s digital workspace. It also covers PowerPoint, focusing on creating professional presentations. Students will learn how to schedule, join, and manage meetings, as well as effectively deliver presentations.

Module 1: Introduction to Video Conferencing Tools
• Overview of communication platforms: Zoom, Skype, Google Meet, Microsoft Teams
• What is the difference? How to choose the right tool for the situation
• Common uses: Work meetings, classes, virtual events, and social interactions

Module 2: Getting Started with Zoom
• Creating a Zoom account & setting up the app
• Joining/hosting a meeting: Links, invitations, and personal meeting ID
• Video/audio settings and test
• Screen sharing and virtual backgrounds
• Meeting controls: Mute, breakout rooms, reactions
• Scheduling a meeting: Time zones, recurring meetings, invitations
• Recording meetings and privacy considerations

Module 3: Getting Started with Skype
• Creating an account & setting up Skype
• Making audio and video calls
• Skype chat & instant messaging features
• Sharing files and screens
• Setting up groups for meetings or chats
• Skype for Business overview
• Troubleshooting common Skype issues

Module 4: Getting Started with Google Meet
• Accessing Google Meet via Gmail & Google Calendar
• Joining a meeting via a link and phone dial-in options
• Google Meet interface: On-screen controls
• Sharing screen, presentations, and documents
• Using captions and real-time translations
• Best practices for collaboration in Meet

Module 5: Getting Started with Microsoft Teams
• Understanding Teams: Channels, Chats, and Meetings
• Setting up a Team for your organization or project
• Starting a meeting and inviting members
• Sharing files, collaborating, and using OneNote and SharePoint
• Teams chat vs. email for collaboration
• Virtual backgrounds and team settings
• Integrating with other Office tools (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• Managing team permissions and security

Module 6: Effective Meeting Etiquette Across Platforms
• Best practices for a professional meeting (audio, video, lighting, background)
• Engagement tips: Mute/unmute, hand raising, reactions
• Managing disruptions and technical issues
• Post-meeting actions: Sharing notes, recordings, and follow-ups

Module 7: Introduction to PowerPoint
• Creating a new presentation & choosing templates
• Inserting slides, text, and images
• Working with SmartArt, tables, and charts
• Animation and transitions basics
• Presenter mode and using notes
• Using PowerPoint for remote meetings or presentations

Module 8: Advanced PowerPoint Skills
• Design best practices (consistency, readability)
• Incorporating multimedia: Video and audio in slides
• Collaborating on PowerPoint presentations using OneDrive or Google Drive
• Delivering presentations with confidence
• Recording a PowerPoint presentation with narration and slides
• Exporting and sharing presentations (PDF, video)