Introduction to IT for Beginners

Instructor-Led Classes: Experienced instructors will lead classes, providing interactive learning and guidance.

Hands-On Computer Labs: Participants will practice on computers to reinforce skills and work on practical exercises.

Group Discussions: Collaborative learning through group discussions and activities will encourage peer interaction.

Practical Projects and Assessments: Participants will complete real-world projects and assessments to apply and assess their knowledge.

Tuesday between 5pm-9pm

The course lasts 6 weeks, with 4 hours per week.

The aim of the 'Introduction to IT for Beginners' course at Northumberland College is to empower adult learners with the fundamental computer skills and digital literacy necessary to navigate today's digital landscape confidently and efficiently. This course seeks to:

Build Digital Confidence: Boost participants' confidence in using computers and digital tools, ensuring they feel comfortable performing basic tasks.

Foster Digital Literacy: Develop a strong foundation in digital literacy, enabling learners to interact with various software applications, the internet, and online services effectively.

Enhance Employability: Equip students with essential IT skills that are increasingly in demand in the job market, enhancing their employability and career prospects.

Promote Online Safety: Educate participants about online safety, helping them recognize and mitigate common online threats, protect personal information, and practice safe online behaviour.

Enable Basic E-commerce Skills: Introduce participants to the world of online shopping and e-commerce, allowing them to make informed decisions and engage in secure online transactions.

You will study a range of modules during this course, including:

- Microsoft Office Basics

In this module, you will dive into the essential Microsoft Office suite, which includes Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. You'll learn how to create, edit, and format documents, spreadsheets, and presentations. Whether it's writing reports, organizing data, or delivering compelling slideshows, this module will empower you to harness the power of Microsoft Office for your personal and professional needs.

- Internet Browsing

This module is your gateway to the online world. You'll explore web browsers and gain the skills to navigate the internet with confidence. From conducting online searches and visiting websites to downloading files and bookmarking your favourite pages, you'll become proficient in online navigation and find the information you need efficiently.

- Online Safety

Safety on the internet is paramount, and this module equips you with the knowledge and tools to protect yourself online. You'll learn to identify common online threats, create robust passwords, safeguard your personal information, and recognize phishing emails and scams. By the end of this module, you'll be equipped to browse the web safely and securely.

- ECommerce Basics

The digital marketplace is vast, and in this module, you'll explore the basics of online shopping and e-commerce. You'll discover how to make secure online payments, manage your online accounts effectively, and navigate popular e-commerce platforms. Understanding your rights and responsibilities as an online customer will empower you to engage confidently in the world of e-commerce.

These modules are designed to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the fundamental IT skills and digital literacy needed to thrive in today's digital age. Each module builds upon the previous one, ensuring that you develop a well-rounded skill set and the confidence to navigate the digital world successfully.