Windows ®

In this topic you will learn how to use your
Windows ® computer. You will investigate the common features of Windows based programs. In subsequent topics you will learn how to use common applications to manage files, send emails and use the internet.


Develop your Skills - Using Windows

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Skills
This section covers the essential skills you will need to use any Windows program such as clicking, selecting items, shortcut menus and Windows management. If you have used a Windows computer before, you probably already have this skills set.

Please read, either:

  • Reading #1 The Windows Environment or
  • Reading # 3 Getting Started with Windows XP p. 1 - 22

(Note if you have a newer computer you will probably be using Windows XP Professional or Home Edition. Older computers may be using other Windows operating systems. Choose the reading that's appropriate for your computer).

Reading #3

PRINT READING
#3

Getting Started with Windows XP
p. 1 - 22
(PRINT ONLY)

Make sure that you understand the following terms and functions after completing either reading:

  • Graphical user interface (GUI)
  • Accessing context menus (right clicking)
  • The difference between 'Windows' and a window
  • Restoring deleted files
  • Minimising, maximising and moving windows

  • TASK:
    1. Find the Calculator in your Accessories folder. Open it, use it, move it around your desktop. Practice minimising and maximising this utility.
    2. Also from the Accessories folder, open the Paint program. Have the two programs open and move between them.
    Compare ideas.

    Tips & tricks icon Tips & Tricks

    Menu Symbols

    Drop Down Menus contain various symbols to indicate usage. Make sure you know these -
    Reading 1, p.8.

    My Recent Documents

    This feature enables you to access files used recently. You will find information on this feature in Reading 3, p 11.


    Putting it to work: What is an operating system?

    This topic has focused on you learning about your Windows operating system.

    Operating systems


    1. Follow the link opposite to the Webopedia site. This is a very useful site for finding more about IT terms and concepts.

    2. Enter "operating system" into the Search by keyword Input box. Be careful to get the spelling correct and not to add an "s"! Jot down what you now understand an operating system is.
    1. Now try Wikipedia, a free, online encyclopedia maintained by ordinary web users.
      • Click the link opposite.
      • Enter operating system into the search box.
      • Compare the information provided with the first.
      • Which provides the best overview for you about what an operating system is?

     



    What have I learned?

    After completing this activity you should know what an operating system is and understand some of the basic features of the operating system you are using.



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