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Digital Literacy

This guide provides resources to help community members build essential digital skills. Topics include internet safety, evaluating online information, using digital tools, understanding privacy, and navigating common software and apps.

Introduction

An Operating System (OS) is the main program that runs on your computer. It controls how the computer works and helps you open programs, organize files, and connect to the internet. Without an OS, the computer wouldn't be able to do anything useful.

Most Common Operating Systems

1. Windows (by Microsoft)

  • Found on many home and work computers.
  • Known for its Start menu, taskbar, and windows for programs.
  • Versions include Windows 10 and Windows 11.

Key Features:

  • Start Menu: Central place to open apps, settings, and files.
  • Taskbar: Shows programs that are open or pinned for easy access.
  • File Explorer: Helps you find and organize your files and folders.
  • Settings: Customize how your computer looks and works.

Visual Tip:

(Courtesy of Lumen Learning)

2. macOS (by Apple)

  • Found only on Apple computers (MacBooks, iMacs, etc.).
  • Known for its simple, clean design and the Dock at the bottom of the screen.

Key Features:

  • Apple Menu: Top-left corner. Used for basic commands like shutting down or adjusting system settings.
  • Dock: Bar at the bottom where favorite apps are kept for quick access.
  • Finder: Manages your files and folders.
  • System Settings: Customize the computer's behavior and appearance.

Visual Tip:

(Courtesy of OS X Daily)

Basic OS Tasks Everyone Should Know

1. Turning the Computer On and Off

  • Press the power button to turn on.
  • Use the menu options (Start menu for Windows/Apple Menu for macOS) to shut down safely.

2. Opening and Closing Programs

  • Click an icon from the Start menu (Windows) or Dock (macOS) to open a program.
  • Close programs by clicking the "X" (Windows) or red circle (macOS).

3. Managing Files and Folders

  • Save documents, photos, and other files into folders.
  • Use File Explorer (Windows) or Finder (macOS) to organize files.

4. Changing Settings

  • Adjust volume, display brightness, Wi-Fi settings, and accessibility options through Settings (Windows) or System Settings (macOS).

Helpful Tip

Even though Windows and macOS look different, they both do the same basic jobs: helping you find things, open programs, save files, and connect to the internet.