Your computer and you

Understanding how computers work and effectively communicating with them is essential for maximizing productivity and efficiency in both professional and personal contexts. This course introduces participants to the fundamental principles of computer operation in an accessible, operating system-agnostic manner.

Imagine the keyboard as a piano: while you can create sounds by clicking individual notes with a single finger, truly playing music requires mastery of the keyboard. Similarly, harnessing the full potential of your computer involves fluently using the keyboard and the command line rather than relying solely on graphical interfaces and a single finger (the mouse).

Key topics covered include:

• Understanding the Computer’s Inner Workings: Grasp the basic concepts of computer architecture and operation, including hardware, software, and memory.

• Navigating the File System: Learn the hierarchical organization of files and folders common to all operating systems, and understand best practices for efficient data management.

• Terminal and Command Line Basics: Gain confidence in using the terminal, executing commands, and automating simple tasks across different operating systems.

• Effective Keyboard Usage: Improve speed and efficiency by mastering essential keyboard chords (shortcuts) and terminal commands.

Participants will engage in hands-on exercises, practical demonstrations, and interactive sessions designed to demystify the computer’s operation and empower them with effective communication tools. This foundational course requires no prior technical knowledge and is suitable for beginners and intermediate users seeking to enhance their computer literacy.