Whether you’re new to computers or just looking to improve your skills, you’ll want to know the basics. That way, you’ll be able to take on more advanced technology or digital marketing topics with confidence.
The best approach to teaching adults basic computer skills is communication. Listen to their goals and interests, then teach them in a dynamic manner.
Spreadsheets
Spreadsheets are a very useful application for accounting, analytics and data presentation. Typically, spreadsheets are scalable grid-based files that allow for a variety of functions to be applied to data arranged in rows and columns.
Often the data is stored as text, but it can also be displayed in graphical form, such as charts and graphs. These are a great way to quickly show data and present it visually for easy interpretation.
A spreadsheet is made up of a series of rows and columns, each of which is labeled with numbers and a letter to identify the location within the sheet. When a row or column intersects another, the space between them is called a cell.
A spreadsheet can be used to perform calculations instantly, such as adding, subtracting, multiplying or dividing, by using a formula. Formulas are a key part of spreadsheets because they enable users to easily manipulate their data and recalculate any affected cells when the contents of one are changed.
Powerpoint
PowerPoint is a popular program that can be used to create presentations. It is easy to use and allows you to create a slideshow with text, images, art, and videos. You can also add transitions, animations, and cinematic motion.
It can also be used to create quizzes, sing-along songs, and games. Inventive people have even found ways to use it for educational purposes.
The software is available for Mac and Windows, and it has many features including templates. It also has a number of different file formats.
The most important thing to remember when using PowerPoint is to keep your message at the forefront of your presentation. You want to avoid distracting your audience with extraneous design, shapes, and colors.
Email is a popular, efficient, and easy way to communicate with others. It can be used for a variety of purposes, including contacting friends and family, communicating with professors or supervisors, and requesting information.
Adding a file attachment (like a picture or a document) can help you share information with others, so you can send a more detailed message. It can also be useful if you need to reference something later or provide proof.
Adults who communicate with their health care providers using email may be more engaged in their health care than those who do not. This is called email patient-provider communication (PPC).
The NHIS measured email PPC by asking adults, “During the past 12 months, have you ever used computers or the internet to communicate with your health care provider by email?” Specifically, this question asked if they had received or sent an email about a medical appointment or diagnostic test results.
Internet
The internet is a global network of computers, mobile devices and servers that lets people access information, communicate and carry out transactions. It’s important to know how to use it safely and effectively.
In the workplace, computers can help with tasks such as working with spreadsheets and emails. They can also help you to connect with friends and family around the world.
However, for many adults a lack of basic computer skills can make it difficult to take advantage of the benefits that the internet has to offer. This is especially true for older adults and those with undiagnosed learning difficulties.
There are a variety of websites that provide free online courses for learning basic computer skills. Some of these include Digital Learn, GCFLearnfree and One Digital World. You can also find internet safety classes to learn how to keep your personal information safe and avoid scams.
