Introduction

This module is an intensive two-day, four hours per day training session that will allow teachers to understand the use of computers and how they work. This module will assist teachers in grades K-12 for using the computer as a resource in facilitating student learning. Upon completion of this module, participants will be able to made good use of computers.

Aim

The aim of this module is to have WIT-Prep attendees learn how to make good practical use of computers.

Rational

Teachers in previous WIT programs reported they did not have the computer skills needed to meet the demands of the program. Attendees said that if they understood the computer and its functions better they could get more out of the program.

Audience

The participants are K-12 teachers primarily from the Chicago Public Schools. These participants have shown an interest in expanding their computer knowledge or skills.

Prerequisites

Must have access to a computer and a willingness to learn about computers.

Subject Matter

The focus of this module is to help teachers learn how computers work and how to use them.

Goals and Objectives

Upon completion of this module/activities participants will be able to use Macintosh/Windows to:

Operate a mouse
Understand and use the computer desktop
Identify and demonstrate use of the various icons
Construct, save, open, edit, undo, delete and move files and folders
Identify and operate various parts of a window
Scroll a window using a mouse or a keyboard
Convert a directory window to view icons or list
Define and identify keyboard shortcuts and why they are necessary
Get rid of unwanted files
Know how to empty the Trash / Recycle Bin
Shut down, turn off and start up a computer
Know how to use the online help
Identify and distinguish the two parts of the computer
Compare and contrast Macintosh vs. Windows
Know how to find "lost" folders and files

Instructional Plan

Attendees will use this module to work through how to make good use of their computers. WIT Mentors will work closely with the attendees, singly and/or in groups or as a whole to supplement their understanding and included activities with examples and activities of their own.

We recommend that Mentors guide their attendees through this module at the pace appropriate for your group, even better at an individualized pace.

Note that if your attendees are "rank" beginners you may have to Lecture / Lead the group through the basics of (at least) mouse control so that they can move through the document.

We did not find or create nearly enough activities to support this module. We have a number of fun activity web sites in the mouse sub-page, three self paced and self grading quizzes (listed here), a crossword puzzle (which you will need to print out for attendees) and a Word Search matrix (which also pretty much requires printing out) but not much more. You may want to suggest to attendees that they try what they read about (eg: opening a directory window) rather than expect step by step instructions from the screen.

Materials

Computer
Access to the Internet
Paper
Pencil
Mentor guidance

Assessment and Evaluation

Participants must pass the self-assessment quizzes in this module with 80% accuracy
Complete various activities throughout the module
Complete the evaluation form.

Evaluation Form

How did you feel about this module?
What did you learn from this module?
What part of this module did you like the best?
What part of this module did you like the least?
If there were anything you could change about this module what would it be?
How would you rate this module overall? 1 ? Excellent to 5

The contents of the Web Institute Web Site, including the On-Line Curriculum, Web Tank, and Session Notes, are Copyright 1999-2000, Graham School of General Studies, University of Chicago. No one may print, copy, or otherwise reproduce these materials without the express written permission of the Director of Education Programs at the Graham School. All rights reserved.

The chapters from Curriculum Webs: A Practical Guide to Weaving the Web into Teaching and Learning are Copyright 1999-2000, Craig A. Cunningham and Marty Billingsley. No one may print, copy, or otherwise reproduce these materials without the express written permission of the authors. All rights reserved.