Overview

To familiarize participants with the physical basics of computers. This lesson covers the simple hardware, power supply, and the accessories necessary for navigation (e.g. mouse & keyboard).

Mozilla Web Literacy 21st Century Skills

Navigate:

• understand the basic structure of the computer and navigating components

Teaching Outcomes

• Explain some basic concepts about what a computer can do, why it is relevant to them
• Seniors should aim to be comfortable with navigating a physical computer
• Seniors should be able to confidently hold a mouse and place their hands on the keyboard

Theory and Background Information

• A computer is a machine that is able to take your input and process information for you

• This can provide text, images, and audio

• A computer monitor is an electronic device that shows you pictures

• This is how you can see the text, images, and audio

• A computer mouse is a device that allows you to move on-screen

• It has two buttons and a scroll wheel

• A computer keyboard is like a typewriter, but is connected to the computer

• It has the same layout as a typewriter, if you’ve ever used one

• A power cord provides power to your computer

• It typically has an adapter which allows it to connect to your laptop

Delivery Analogy

• A computer monitor is like your television
• A mouse is like you pointing to a computer screen and telling it what to do
• A keyboard is like a type-writer

Hardware and Software (Per Senior)

• A laptop
• A power cord
• A monitor (if using a desktop computer)
• A keyboard (if using a desktop computer)

Procedure: this is specific to the laptop

• Open the laptop if it is not already open. If there’s a lock on it, it will look like a slider. By sliding on the slider/lock, you can now pull open the laptop screen.
• You can turn on the laptop by pressing the “ON” button. The ON button is generally a distinct button on the laptop. It is typically found on the top of the keyboard.
• Plug the laptop in using the power adapter. Plug the adapter into the laptop and the power cord into the power outlet. There are typically two cords associated: the outlet cord (which has the three prongs you are familiar with), and the adapter (which connects to the laptop). This will provide power to the laptop. Without power, the laptop can run out of power and will not stay on.
• Optional: you can plug in your mouse to the laptop through the USB port (labelled). This will allow for you to navigate the laptop using your mouse. Mice are generally considered easier to use, but do add bulk - it is up to you to determine which is most comfortable
• The mouse has two buttons that you can click on. You can rest your hand so that your index finger and middle finger rest on the two buttons. You can move your finger so it rests on the scroll wheel. It is in the middle of the two mouse buttons and sticks out like a nub. The scroll wheel allows for you to slide up and down on the computer screen.
• The keyboard has all the letters of the alphabet, numbers, and some other commands. You will want to place both your hands on the keyboard.

Preparations

• Putting labels on the correct ports and power button

Introduction

• Ask seniors if they have used a computer before. Because a computer is hard to define, ask them what things they can possibly to do on the computer for them to brainstorm (e.g. music, documentaries, the news, computer games)
• Explain to seniors why a computer is useful and what they can gain by using a computer (ie. connecting with family, finding music or videos, this will be more convenient if you were able to find something they like doing already)
• Introduce them to the physical aspects of the computer. Define keyboard, mouse, monitor, power adapter (See Theory, Procedure, and Analogies)

Activity

• Explain them how to place their hands on the mouse and keyboard.
• Have them practice turning on the laptop, pressing  the buttons on the mouse, and typing on the keyboard until they feel comfortable.
• Guide them through plugging the power cord and mouse into the laptop

Activity Accommodations and Extensions

• If the laptop does not turn on, you may not have plugged it into the laptop properly
• This is considered an introductory exercise. You should also make effort to get to know the resident during this time. Remember, they are just people too!

Resources

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Computer

https://teach.mozilla.org/web-literacy