PC Fundamentals

PROGRAM OUTLINE

Instruction Sets
Your program consists of seven Instruction Sets written to take you step-by-step through the techniques and skills you'll use in your new career.

Here's how it works
Your first Instruction Set will be sent immediately after your enrollment has been accepted. Other Instruction Sets will follow as you complete your exams, so that you will always have training materials to work with. Here is an overview of what you'll learn and the order in which you'll receive your lessons:

You will need access to a computer to complete this program. Penn Foster recommends the following as minimum specifications: Pentium® II or better processor, using Microsoft® Windows® XP or later, capable of running Microsoft® Office 2007. You will also need Internet access.

Instruction Set 1
- Learning Strategies
  - The advantages of learning at home; types of study materials; types of examinations; accessing and using the features of our website; determining what kind of learner you are; establishing a study schedule; using study tips; preparing for and taking examinations.
- First Steps in Using a Personal Computer
  - How to start up and shut down a computer; using the keyboard and mouse to navigate the system; basic computer setup.
Instruction Set 2
- Introduction to Windows®
  - Introduction to Microsoft® Windows® operating system; creating files and folders; file management and storage.
  Using Windows®
  - Windows® operations, including start-up; using Windows® accessories; using desktop commands; using Windows® Explorer.
- Learning Aid:
  - Glossary of Computer Terms
Instruction Set 3
- Understanding Software
  - Types of software and how it can be used; word processors; spreadsheets; databases.
- Adding Software to Your Computer
  - Installing software more efficiently; step-by-step instructions for installing and removing software.
Instruction Set 4
- Printers, Scanners, Joysticks, and Other Add-Ons
  - Computer hardware and peripherals; descriptions and uses of hardware and peripherals.
- Practical Exercise: Adding a Printer to Your PC
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Instruction Set 5
- Introduction to the Internet
  - What you need to get online; selecting an Internet Service Provider; email; newsgroups; bulletin boards; the World Wide Web; avoiding viruses; shopping safely online.
  Internet Basics
  - Commonly used browsers; how to use a browser; bookmarking; downloading files; receiving and sending E-mail; search engines; plug-in and helper applications.
- Practical Exercise: Using the Internet
Instruction Set 6
- Microsoft® Word
  - Creating, editing, and formatting a document with Word; adding graphics to a document in Word.
  Graded Project: Microsoft® Word Textbook: Microsoft® Word Software:
  - Microsoft® Office
- Equipment:
  - High-density Diskette
  - Diskette Mailer
Instruction Set 7
- Microsoft® Excel
  - Creating and modifying a worksheet in Excel; working with charts in Excel.
  Graded Project: Microsoft® Excel Textbook: Microsoft® Excel CD ROM: Microsoft® Excel
- Equipment:
  - High-density Diskette
  - Diskette Mailer

Online Library and Librarian
Students in Penn Foster Career School have access to an online library for use during their studies. Students can use this library to do the required research in the courses they complete or can use it for general reference and links to valuable resources. The library contains helpful research assistance, articles, databases, books, and Web links. A librarian is available to answer questions on general research-related topics via email and assist students in research activities during their studies with Penn Foster Career School.

We reserve the right to change program content and materials when it becomes necessary.
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