Planning to teach an introduction to computer course in school.

[SOSTrooper]

So the title of the class I plan to teach is "Computer Knowledge At A Consumer Level." Basically I want this class to be an introduction course to more applicable computer knowledge that many consumers today may find useful. I plan to span the entire 10 class meetings (each class meeting is 2 hours long) introducing the students to computer hardware, software (including OS), peripherals, networking, installation of OS and drivers, building and upgrading, basic problem diagnosting, and the internet.

I want to ask ATOT for some ideas on the best way(s) to approach this class for beginners. What I know so far is that the class will have about 25 to 30 students, and I have access to projector and speakers. As for experience, I've worked at a computer shop repairing computers, installing home & office networking, and tech support for over 5 years. This begins to sound like a resume haha.

Well just wanna read ideas and inputs you guys might have for me. Thanks.

 

[mugs]

Lesson 1: Teach the kids to type in proper English, not that text-messaging nonsense.

That may take the entire 20 hours.

 

[drum]

i have not much to contribute other than to say, you are braver than I.

I'd say the important thing is getting them not to be afraid of the computer. In my experience they are afraid of doing or trying anything in fear of screwing the computer up.

 

[doze]

It would probably be a good idea to start with the components that make up a computer and what each component does. CPU, motherboard, RAM, hard drive etc... If you can bring in some old clunker machines and break up into groups and do a disassembly and resaaembly that would probably be pretty cool.

Installation of Windows, optimizing Windows etc... that you mentioned

How to setup and secure a basic wireless router would certainly be helpful.

Stress the importance of antivirus software and firewalls on an always on connection. Maybe go into a basic software firewall setup for those with 1 PC and no router.

And of course spyware cleanup and how to prevent spyware.

Even copying burning and ripping CD's and DVD's would probably be a good lesson. You would be surprised how many people (who get music the legal way) have bought an MP3 they already own on CD just because they didn't know they could rip their own CD

 

[sao123]

Important topics to include:

Understanding the numbers/jargon (how not to be doped by salesman.)

Buying a PC (low end vs mid grade vs high end) and how to get the best for less money

Networking 101 ( wireless, hubs, switches, routers, etc)

Security (antivirus + firewall? + spy/malware removal & prevention + windows updates)

How to get free porn without getting into malware.

Downloading, P2P, Mp3's, piracy, & copyrights.

 

[SOSTrooper]

Originally posted by: sao123
Important topics to include:

How to get free porn without getting into malware.

I'll definitely teach that if the course is called computer knowledge at a perverted level.