Your cart is currently empty!
SayPro Explain the importance of computer literacy.
Definition – What does Computer Literate mean?Computer literate is a term used to describe individuals who have the knowledge and skills to use a computer and other related technology. This term is usually used to describe the most basic knowledge and skills needed to operate software products such as an operating system, a software application, or an automated Web design tool.Computer literacy is becoming an increasingly essential skill.Computer literacy involves learning how to access information and perform basic operations on a computer. It can be understood in the same way that traditional literacy applies to print media. However, because computers are much more advanced than print media in terms of access, operation and overall use, computer literacy includes many more types of cognitive and technical skills, from understanding text and visual symbols, to turning devices on and off or accessing parts of an operating system through menus.Computer literacy is the ability to use computers and related technology efficiently, with a range of skills covering levels from elementary use to programming and advanced problem solving. Furthermore, the latterdescribes a general knowledge of computers, software, hardware, and how they work.Another common definition of computer literacy is the knowledge and skills required for basic use of computer hardware, software and the Internet. These critical computer and Internet skills are valued in today’s academic and professional environments. This leads to success in education and employment since computer skills are integral to all areas of study and work. The 3 R’s (reading, writing and arithmetic) should now also include the 3 C’s (communicating, calculating and computing) since the ability to use a computer is on the same level as reading and writing skills.10 things you have to know to be computer literate1: Search enginesUsing a search engine is more than typing in the address, putting a couple of keywords into the big text box, clicking Search, and choosing the first result. While that may work, it won’t give you the best results much of the time. Learning the advanced search, Boolean operators, and how to discern good results from bad results goes a long way toward enabling you to use a computer as a powerful research tool.2: Word processingWord processing is one of the oldest uses for a computer. And it continues to be extremely important, even though in many ways its functions have been put into other applications. (For example, people may write more emails than documents, but the task is nearly identical.) It is tough to claim to be computer literate if the basic functions of word processing — like spell check, table creation, and working with headers — are outside your capabilities.3: Spread sheetsSpread sheets offer incredibly powerful analysis possibilities… if you know how to use them for more than storing the holiday card address list. Being able to use formulas, references, and macros can turn a "grid of numbers" into actionable information in the hands of the right person.4: Browser basicsIt is almost painful to watch some "computer savvy" people operate a Web browser. The most obvious goof is going to a search engine to type in the address of the site they want to go to. But folks are unaware of a lot of other things they do that make the Internet more difficult than it needs to be. Mastering techniques like opening links in new windows, using bookmarks, editing URLs to perform navigation, clearing the browser cache, and understanding common error messages will give you access to a world of unlimited information instead of keeping you stuck with only what Web site designers make obvious.5: Virus/malware scanningMuch of typical computer maintenance is automated or unneeded at this point, but it is still essential to understand how to check a system for nasty bugs, spyware, and other malicious applications. While the scanning tools come with real-time monitors, something can still slip onto the system before the scanner has the right filter for it. So it’s critical to know how to trigger a manual virus/malware scan, as well as how to use alternative systems, spot signs of an infection, and other similar tasks.6: Common keyboard commandsIf you do not know how to copy/paste without a mouse, you are not computer literate. Sorry! Every operating system has some universal keyboard commands, and while knowing them won’t add 30 minutes back into your day, it will take a lot of the "friction" out of using a computer. Learning these commands is more a matter of routine than anything else; a short tutorial done once a day for a week will probably be enough to put you in the habit, and it will make you a happier user.7: Basic hardware terminologyIt is tough to have someone help you with a problem when you tell them that your "hard drive" is unplugged, when you really mean "the computer." There are a number of common hardware misunderstandings out there, and while some are understandable (for instance, confusing a NIC with a modem — the cables look similar and they serve the same purpose, networking), knowing basic hardware terminology is a must-have skill to be a savvy user.8: Simple networking diagnosisNetworking problems create the most common trouble with most computers. While you don’t need to be able to program a Cisco router, you should know how to:
- Determine your IP address
- Verify physical connectivity to the network
- Check that you have a logical connection to the network
- Find out what path network traffic takes to get to its destination
- Translate from DNS names to IP addresses
9: How to hook it upDespite the colour coding of connections and the fact that most cords can be plugged into only one hole, tons of people still can’t hook up a computer. It is tough to claim to be computer literate if you can’t even get it hooked up and turned on without some help.10: Security/privacy 101It is a dangerous world out there! You absolutely must know how to protect yourself from attackers on the Internet and keep your personal data private. Everything from knowing to check a link before you click it to verifying that encryption is being used to transmit sensitive data to researching sites before giving them your personal data are all critical skills for the modern computer user.Why is it important to be computer literate in modern times?Basic computer knowledge allows us to ‘browse’ or ‘surf the internet’. However that is not all. With computer literacy and the internet we have greater access to:
- Information and knowledge
- A greater understanding of culture and people of diverse backgrounds
- More information on emerging trends
- Greater connection to people from around the world on a social and business level
Why is it important to be Computer Literate?
Advantages of Computer Literacy1. Computer Literacy addresses the Gap in your Knowledge2. If you are a professional in your 30’s or 40’s doing the same thing on a daily basis, you probably know that you need a little technological push in the right direction to reach your full potential. Many people unwittingly settle in their careers for fewer chances and opportunities because they feel as if, ‘you can’t teach an old dog new tricks’2. Computer Literacy supports EntrepreneurshipWith a whole new world that is literally at your fingertips, doesn’t the prospect of your own development get your pulses racing? Being computer literate will open your world up to new ideas, enable your self-confidence and help you to innovate. Just imagine all you need is an internet connection, a PC or laptop and a little bit of business sense and you could be streets ahead.3. Depolarisation of the Office Space – a new and real phenomenonWith the increased digitisation of the world and the processes that we engage in, even our offices have become virtual/digital spaces. Depending on your industry and if you have the option to do so, you could easily work from home, a holiday destination, the beach or anywhere else that you choose.4. Computer Literacy Skills command InnovationAs you get savvier with your computer skills, you will be inspired to innovate, experiment, try new things and get ahead in your industry.5. The Importance of Computer Literacy in EducationThere are different markers of development along the education journey. Assuming a child receives early exposure to computer skills training, one of the end-goals as that child matures is to be computer literate.6. Helps students to navigate digital learning platformsStudents stand to benefit from their early computer literacy skills training as it will help them to navigate digital learning platforms. Many colleges and institutions of higher learning make use of e-learning courses. At this phase computer literacy helps immensely in allowing the student to navigate the technology needed to engage with online learning platforms.7. Enhances job opportunitiesBefore a student enters the working world it is imperative that they receive some kind of computer skills training. Computer literacy prepares students for the norms and algorithms of the business world. Having some level of computer literacy enhances job opportunities.8. CommunicationIt goes without saying that the business world involves a great deal of communication. Both interpersonally and electronically. Think emails, presentations, workshops, Skype calls and so on. There is always a level of computer literacy involved.9. Computers streamline Business ProcessesPreviously, business processes used to be very tedious. Before we really, truly embraced computer skills we might have sent a staff member around the office to get people to sign a memo. Nowadays an email or giving somebody your banking details in which to deposit funds is just as good.The Advantages of Being Computer Literate in the WorkforceProfitable SkillsThe ability to use more common programs such as Microsoft Word or Excel or specialized programs, such as the bookkeeping program Intuit QuickBooks, can mean that you have advanced computer skills that other candidates do not, and you may get hired into the company because you are able to use those programs at an intermediate or advanced level. You could make more money or get hired for a high-level job because you are able to use a program. Basic computer literacy allows you to take classes in school or college or get training the workplace on how to use certain basic or specialized software.Leadership and PromotionsIf you have certain computer knowledge, you may get promoted to a higher position within your workplace, which in turn could give you an opportunity to work on more challenging projects or tasks. Even if you start out in a lower-level job, acquiring or having advanced computer skills likely will help you to get a better job more quickly than you would if you didn’t have computer skills. If you have advanced knowledge of how to use computers, you could be put in a leadership position in which you teach others how to use computers or certain computer programs. You may also be called upon to serve as a computer technician, assisting others in fixing and using computerized technology more effectively, if you have advanced computer skills.Work PerformanceKnowing how to use a computer often allows you to get work done in a more organized, efficient and timely manner, especially if you perform a job that requires you to use a computer on a frequent or regular basis. Computers feature programs such spread sheet, word-processing or presentation programs that help you to organize your thoughts, but you need to know how to manipulative these programs to be able to use their features, such as their text or imaging features. If you work with a database at work, you won’t be able to complete important tasks without computer knowledge. Even if you do manual labour, such a construction or food service job, you may need to use a computer to conduct research on industry or company trends, regulations or news; run a cash register or complete training before starting work.CommunicationKnowledge of how to access the Internet on a computer opens up different possibilities for you to communicate with co-workers or supervisors. Within the workplace, you can use instant messaging programs, social media websites or email to communicate about work-related topics. When you use email or social media websites, such as Twitter or Facebook, you are able to leave messages for others to view at a later time and can email messages or documents to large groups of people. Computer knowledge means that you can communicate with others using multimedia, such as sound or video presentations, especially during speeches. If you have a job that requires you to travel, it is important for you to know how to use a computer because you likely will need to use a computer to communicate with others from another location.
SayPro is a group of brands leading in Africa’s development, building innovative online solutions and a strategic institution on child growth, youth empowerment and adult support programmes, applications in Africa.SayPro Core Skills and Expertise:
SayPro is providing international and global opportunities for African youth. Partner with SayPro now by sending an email to info or give us a call at + 27 11 071 1903 |
Please visit our website at www.saypro.online Email: info@saypro.online Email: info@saypro.online Call: + 27 11 071 1903 WhatsApp: + 27 84 313 7407. Comment below for any questions and feedback. For SayPro Courses, SayPro Jobs, SayPro Community Development, SayPro Products, SayPro Services, SayPro Consulting, and SayPro Advisory visit our website to www.saypro.online
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.