Proficiency Certificate Course in Basic Computer Packages for Beginners
Total Duration: 8-12 weeks (2-3 months)
Course Fee: 15,000 Kenya Shillings
Weekly commitment : 2 hours per day
Course Overview
This course is designed to introduce beginners to the fundamental concepts and skills needed to effectively use basic computer software packages. The course covers operating systems, word processing, spreadsheets, presentations, and basic internet usage. By the end of the course, students will have a solid foundation in these areas and be able to apply their knowledge to everyday tasks.
Course Duration and Cost
- Total Duration: 12 weeks (3 months)
- Weekly Commitment: 2 hours per day
- Course Fee: 15,000 Kenya Shillings
Course Objectives
- Understand the basic components of computer system and operating system functionalities.
- Gain proficiency in using word processing software for document creation and editing.
- Learn to use spreadsheet software for data organization, calculation, and analysis.
- Develop skills in creating presentations using presentation software.
- Acquire basic internet skills including browsing, email, and online safety.
Course Outline
Week 1: Introduction to Computers and Operating Systems
- Overview of computer hardware and software
- Understanding operating systems (Windows, macOS, Linux)
- Basic navigation and file management
- Creating, renaming, moving, and deleting files and folders
Week 2: Operating Systems Continued
- Advanced file management techniques
- Customizing the desktop and settings
- Installing and uninstalling software
- Introduction to basic troubleshooting
Week 3: Introduction to Word Processing (Microsoft Word/Google Docs)
- Interface and navigation
- Creating and saving documents
- Basic text formatting (font, size, style)
- Paragraph formatting (alignment, line spacing)
- Inserting and editing images, tables, and hyperlinks
- Using templates and styles
- Printing documents
Week 4: Advanced Word Processing
- Headers, footers, and page numbers
- Creating and formatting tables
- Track changes and comments
- Mail merge
- Document review and collaboration
Week 5: Practical Applications of Word Processing
- Creating professional documents (resumes, letters, reports)
- Formatting long documents
- Advanced editing and proofreading techniques
- Integrating with other software (Excel, PowerPoint)
Week 6: Introduction to Spreadsheets (Microsoft Excel/Google Sheets)
- Interface and navigation
- Creating and saving spreadsheets
- Basic data entry and formatting
- Simple formulas and functions (SUM, AVERAGE)
- Cell referencing and ranges
- Sorting and filtering data
Week 7: Advanced Spreadsheets
- Complex formulas and functions (IF, VLOOKUP, etc.)
- Creating charts and graphs
- Data validation
- Pivot tables
- Conditional formatting
Week 8: Practical Applications of Spreadsheets
- Budgeting and financial planning
- Data analysis and visualization
- Project management and tracking
- Using spreadsheets for decision making
Week 9: Introduction to Presentations (Microsoft PowerPoint/Google Slides)
- Interface and navigation
- Creating and saving presentations
- Slide layout and design principles
- Inserting and formatting text, images, and multimedia
- Basic transitions and animations
Week 10: Advanced Presentations
- Custom slide designs and templates
- Advanced transitions and animations
- Speaker notes and presentation tools
- Collaborating on presentations
- Best practices for effective presentations
Week 11: Basic Internet Skills
- Introduction to web browsers (Chrome, Firefox, Edge)
- Effective web searching techniques
- Using email (Gmail, Outlook)
- Composing, sending, and organizing emails
- Email attachments and security
Week 12: Online Safety and Final Project
- Online safety and security
- Recognizing phishing and scams
- Safe browsing practices
- Integrating learned skills into a final project
- Creating a comprehensive document
- Analyzing data in a spreadsheet
- Preparing and delivering a presentation
Assessment
- Weekly quizzes to reinforce learning
- Practical assignments and projects
- Final project integrating word processing, spreadsheets, and presentations
Additional Resources
- Recommended textbooks and online resources
- Access to tutorial videos and practice exercises
- Support forums and office hours for additional help
Certification
Upon successful completion of the course and assessments, students will receive a certificate of proficiency in Basic Computer Packages for Beginners