Orientation - Computer Lab

Prerequisites and Requirements

Class & Internet Rules

The lab agreements are included on the list below. Please sign and turn in these in to your instructor. Your continuance in this class is contingent on having these on file.

General Stuff

The classes are designed to meet your individual need so that you can progress at your own pace. Instructions are kept simple, the classes can be printed out for reference and the vocabulary is kept simple for lower level readers and English as a Second Language students.

The computer classes are presented in sequence and assume that the student knows nothing about computers. Presenting in this way will fill in any "gray" areas, so even if you feel that you know something, go ahead and read the classes from the beginning. I have added tips and tricks that "aren't in the book" so that learning new material will be interesting.

Schedule

The labs are open Monday to Friday and sometimes Saturday mornings for 'crunch time' projects. Check with your instructor about lab access and staffing.

Data Disks and Data Files

Data disk and lab folders are set up in the "My Documents" folder located on the desktop. Inside of "My Documents" is a folder called "Students".

Click on "Students" to open it. If you do not have a folder with your name on it, create one here by right-clocking, select 'New >> Folder'. Type your first AND last name to name the folder. This folder will contain all of your working files. Copy your files onto your USB for backup. Keep your files safe!

If you do not name it with both your first and last names then another person can over write your files with theirs!!

Class Data Files are located on the web site. As you progress through the classes, pertinent data files are linked so that they are available at the click of the mouse. Simply download the file into your student folder and continue on with the course.

Dictionaries, Phone Books and Reference Materials

Later in the course a Glossary of computer terms is going to be very important. Print the glossary out and keep it handy for ready reference during the classes. Also on hand you may want a good dictionary and any other reference materials. You may also want to create your own as you go.

Computer Settings

Some lessons will teach you how to manipulate the operating system. The lessons that reference system settings are for reference or home use only. On your own home computers it is possible that by changing system settings the computer will operate and react very differently than when you started it. It is important to remember:

This class will ONLY show you where these settings are located and how to adjust them, and basically what they are used for.