{"id":3347,"date":"2025-04-02T09:18:27","date_gmt":"2025-04-02T13:18:27","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.nytechnologist.com\/beyondthebasics\/?page_id=3347"},"modified":"2026-03-03T16:57:08","modified_gmt":"2026-03-03T21:57:08","slug":"introduction-to-computers","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.nytechnologist.com\/beyondthebasics\/introduction-to-computers\/","title":{"rendered":"Introduction to Computers"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-block-cover alignfull has-custom-content-position is-position-bottom-center\" style=\"margin-top:0;margin-bottom:0;padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--50);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--50);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--50);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--50);min-height:840px;aspect-ratio:unset;\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2560\" height=\"1479\" class=\"wp-block-cover__image-background wp-image-3355\" alt=\"Picture of a flower\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.nytechnologist.com\/beyondthebasics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/northern-buttercups-flowers-scaled.webp?resize=2560%2C1479&#038;ssl=1\" style=\"object-position:50% 95%\" data-object-fit=\"cover\" data-object-position=\"50% 95%\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.nytechnologist.com\/beyondthebasics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/northern-buttercups-flowers-scaled.webp?w=2560&amp;ssl=1 2560w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.nytechnologist.com\/beyondthebasics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/northern-buttercups-flowers-scaled.webp?resize=300%2C173&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.nytechnologist.com\/beyondthebasics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/northern-buttercups-flowers-scaled.webp?resize=1024%2C592&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.nytechnologist.com\/beyondthebasics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/northern-buttercups-flowers-scaled.webp?resize=768%2C444&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.nytechnologist.com\/beyondthebasics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/northern-buttercups-flowers-scaled.webp?resize=1536%2C887&amp;ssl=1 1536w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.nytechnologist.com\/beyondthebasics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/northern-buttercups-flowers-scaled.webp?resize=2048%2C1183&amp;ssl=1 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><span aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-cover__background has-background-dim-10 has-background-dim\"><\/span><div class=\"wp-block-cover__inner-container has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-cover-is-layout-d89aad35 wp-block-cover-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignwide has-global-padding is-content-justification-left is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-12dd3699 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-left has-xx-large-font-size\">What is a computer?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The parts of a computer system, how they interconnect, and using it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button is-style-fill\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nytechnologist.com\/beyondthebasics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/01-What-is-a-computer.docx\">Learn More<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignfull is-style-section-5 has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained is-style-section-5--1\" style=\"margin-top:0;margin-bottom:0;padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--50);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--50)\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns alignwide is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-7ee84d44 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:50%\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Hardware and Electricity <\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">Inputs, outputs, and electricity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nytechnologist.com\/beyondthebasics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/02-Hardware-and-Electricity.pptx\">Learn More<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:50%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"678\" height=\"677\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.nytechnologist.com\/beyondthebasics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/ruins-image.webp?resize=678%2C677&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Cliff Palace, Colorado\" class=\"wp-image-3357\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1;object-fit:cover\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.nytechnologist.com\/beyondthebasics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/ruins-image.webp?w=678&amp;ssl=1 678w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.nytechnologist.com\/beyondthebasics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/ruins-image.webp?resize=300%2C300&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.nytechnologist.com\/beyondthebasics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/ruins-image.webp?resize=150%2C150&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 678px) 100vw, 678px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignfull has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"margin-top:0;margin-bottom:0\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignwide is-layout-grid wp-container-core-group-is-layout-5fdb10e5 wp-block-group-is-layout-grid\" style=\"padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--50);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--50)\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-vertical is-content-justification-stretch is-nowrap is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-627337ab wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-vertical is-content-justification-left is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-dd225191 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\">\n<p class=\"is-style-text-subtitle is-style-text-subtitle--2\"><strong>Software Instructions<\/strong> <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"is-style-text-subtitle is-style-text-subtitle--3\">Operating System (OS) software and <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"is-style-text-subtitle is-style-text-subtitle--4\">Applications software<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button is-style-fill\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nytechnologist.com\/beyondthebasics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/03-Software-Instructions.pptx\">Learn More<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-file\"><a id=\"wp-block-file--media-66dd14c1-8a9e-4476-97e4-e41312e96801\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nytechnologist.com\/beyondthebasics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/oil-statistics.xlsx\">oil statistics<\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nytechnologist.com\/beyondthebasics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/oil-statistics.xlsx\" class=\"wp-block-file__button wp-element-button\" download aria-describedby=\"wp-block-file--media-66dd14c1-8a9e-4476-97e4-e41312e96801\">Download<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1520\" height=\"808\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.nytechnologist.com\/beyondthebasics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/grid-flower-1.webp?resize=1520%2C808&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Photography close up of a red flower.\" class=\"wp-image-3356\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.nytechnologist.com\/beyondthebasics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/grid-flower-1.webp?w=1520&amp;ssl=1 1520w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.nytechnologist.com\/beyondthebasics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/grid-flower-1.webp?resize=300%2C159&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.nytechnologist.com\/beyondthebasics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/grid-flower-1.webp?resize=1024%2C544&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.nytechnologist.com\/beyondthebasics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/grid-flower-1.webp?resize=768%2C408&amp;ssl=1 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"794\" height=\"1125\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.nytechnologist.com\/beyondthebasics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/grid-flower-2.webp?resize=794%2C1125&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Black and white photography close up of a flower.\" class=\"wp-image-3358\" style=\"aspect-ratio:3\/4;object-fit:cover\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.nytechnologist.com\/beyondthebasics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/grid-flower-2.webp?w=794&amp;ssl=1 794w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.nytechnologist.com\/beyondthebasics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/grid-flower-2.webp?resize=212%2C300&amp;ssl=1 212w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.nytechnologist.com\/beyondthebasics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/grid-flower-2.webp?resize=723%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 723w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.nytechnologist.com\/beyondthebasics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/grid-flower-2.webp?resize=768%2C1088&amp;ssl=1 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 794px) 100vw, 794px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignfull has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"margin-top:0;margin-bottom:0\">\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignfull has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-08655630 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"margin-top:0;margin-bottom:0;padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--80);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--80)\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignwide is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Introduction to Computer Basics<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p>March 3, 2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u2b50 Session 1 \u2014 Google Drive Essentials<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p><br>Introduction to cloud storage fundamentals\u2014the core skill needed to organize, protect, and access their digital files anywhere. The purpose is to ensure learners understand how to store documents, manage folders, upload and move files, and share them responsibly. These skills act as the foundation for everything else in the course.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Welcome &amp; Orientation<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Quick overview of Google OS setup<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Confirm everyone is logged into <strong>Google accounts.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Dive into the terminology of cloud-based computing: \u201cToday, we learn cloud storage and organizing digital files.\u201d<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Google Drive Tour<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>What is Google Drive?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Where files live in the cloud<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Differences: My Drive vs. Shared with Me vs. Recent vs. My Local Drive<br><br><br>Demonstrate:<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Creating folders<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Renaming<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Moving files<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Uploading a file<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Searching Drive<br><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Hands-On Activity: Build a Digital Filing Cabinet<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Students create:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Folder \u2192 <strong>\u201cMy Practice Files \u2013 March 2026.\u201d<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Subfolders: \u201cPersonal,\u201d \u201cWork,\u201d \u201cClass Projects, \u201cJournal,\u201d, \u201cBudget\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Upload 1\u20132 files or create a blank Google Doc to practice.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sharing &amp; Permissions<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Share a file with <strong>View Only.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Share a file with <strong>Editor<\/strong> rights.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Explain safe sharing practices (avoid \u201cAnyone with link\u201d unless needed)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Quick Challenge + Q&amp;A<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Prompt: \u201cCreate a new Google Doc file, give it a descriptive name.\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Move it into one of the folders you created or create a new folder for it.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>End with Q&amp;A and preview next session: <strong>Google Docs<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u2b50 Session 2 \u2014 Google Docs and Google Sheets Basics<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p><br>Create and format digital documents\/spreadsheets using a web-based word processor\/spreadsheet. The purpose is to provide hands-on, practical skills such as editing text, inserting images, using templates, and exporting PDFs to enable more accessible sharing. Collaboration features reinforce modern workplace and everyday communication skills, helping learners become comfortable with digital writing tools.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Warm-Up<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Open Drive \u2192 Create New Google Doc<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Rename it: \u201cMy First Google Doc.\u201d<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Open Drive \u2192 Create New Google Sheet<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Rename it: \u201cMy First Google Sheet.\u201d<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Google Docs\/Sheets Fundamentals<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Demonstrate:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Docs:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Text editing basics<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Formatting: bold, italics, underline<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Alignment<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Font\/size<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Bullets vs. numbered lists<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Undo\/redo<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Zoom and viewing modes<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Keyboard shortcuts (Ctrl+Z, Ctrl+S not needed, etc.)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Sheets<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Add<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Subtract<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Multiply<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Divide<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Create chart<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Hands-On Activity: Recreate a Simple Flyer<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Students build a flyer such as:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Yard sale<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Birthday invitation<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Community event<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Personal profile sheet<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Skills practiced:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Insert \u2192 Image (from web or upload)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Insert \u2192 Table (1\u00d72 or 2\u00d72)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Formatting headings<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Using color and layout<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Downloading as PDF<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Saving automatically to Drive<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Collaboration Demo<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Partner up<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Share the flyer<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Watch real-time collaboration<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Use \u201cComments\u201d and \u201cSuggestions\u201d mode.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Wrap-Up<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Preview Session 3: <strong>ChatGPT + Google Search Digital Literacy<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u2b50 Session 3 \u2014 ChatGPT vs. Google Search<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p><br>Explore digital information literacy\u2014how AI assistants differ from traditional search engines, when to use each, and how to evaluate results. The purpose is to build critical modern skills: comparing answers, assessing credibility, and applying AI to personal tasks such as trip planning and document creation. This empowers learners to use AI confidently and safely.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Search Engines vs. AI Assistants<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Clarify:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Google Search = list of websites (keyword search interaction returning information presented by the source\u2019s link)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>ChatGPT = generates step-by-step explanations (customized information and feedback based on the user\u2019s questions, providing a conversation-based interaction)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>When to use each<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Importance of fact-checking<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Comparison Activity<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Students compare both tools for:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"1\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\u201cHow do I reset my email password?\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cWrite a short message to congratulate a coworker.\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cSymptoms of a computer virus.\u201d (Followed by safety talk.)<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>Students evaluate:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Clarity<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Accuracy<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Usefulness<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Bias or missing details<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Day Trip Planner<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Steps:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"1\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Use ChatGPT \u2192 create an itinerary.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Copy into Google Docs<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Format with headings, bullets, and images<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Save to Drive<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Share with a partner.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Optional Bonus Tools (Quick Demos)<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Google Photos<\/strong> \u2014 auto backup &amp; albums<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Google Keep<\/strong> \u2014 simple notes &amp; checklists<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Google Calendar<\/strong> \u2014 appointments &amp; reminders<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Google Maps<\/strong> \u2014 saving places &amp; directions<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Gmail<\/strong> tools \u2014 filters, labels, attachments from Drive<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Chrome bookmarks<\/strong> \u2014 organizing web links<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Final Q&amp;A + Course Wrap-Up<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Review what we covered across 3 sessions.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Highlight digital safety best practices.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Further Exploration Suggestion:\u2b50 What Else Can Students Do With Their Google Accounts? &nbsp;<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Note: We use Google Workplace for demonstration purposes; however, there are alternatives to the Google tools we explored.<\/strong> <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><br>These bullet points highlight the additional tools and benefits available with a Google account\u2014photos, notes, calendars, maps, email, and more. The purpose is to show learners the broader ecosystem they can use for daily life, organization, communication, and productivity beyond the classroom. It helps them see that their Google account is a digital toolkit, not just a login.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Below is a popular list to explore:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>\u2714<\/strong><strong> Google Photos<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Store unlimited photos (compressed)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Auto-backup from devices<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Create albums &amp; slideshows.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>\u2714<\/strong><strong> Google Keep<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Notes and checklists<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Shopping lists<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Voice notes<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Color-coded organization<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>\u2714<\/strong><strong> Google Calendar<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Create events<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Set reminders<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Share calendars with family or groups.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>\u2714<\/strong><strong> Google Sheets<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Budgeting<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Lists &amp; logs<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Simple data tables<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>\u2714<\/strong><strong> Gmail<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Organizing inbox with labels<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Searching email efficiently<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sending Drive attachments directly<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>\u2714<\/strong><strong> YouTube (via Google Account)<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Create playlists<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Subscribe to learning channels.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Upload personal videos if desired.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>\u2714<\/strong><strong> Google Maps<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Save favorite places<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Get directions<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Explore Street View<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Oracle Cloud <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/gbbc386fafe6ff5-muxzj7ay8uvq4qg3.adb.us-ashburn-1.oraclecloudapps.com\/ords\/r\/adulted_ws\/adulted-actions\/login?session=1255768263926\">https:\/\/gbbc386fafe6ff5-muxzj7ay8uvq4qg3.adb.us-ashburn-1.oraclecloudapps.com\/ords\/r\/adulted_ws\/adulted-actions\/login?session=1255768263926<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center is-style-text-display is-style-text-display--5\" style=\"font-style:normal;font-weight:400\">Let&#8217;s explore the computer system! <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center is-style-text-display is-style-text-display--6\" style=\"font-style:normal;font-weight:400\"><br><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:var(--wp--preset--spacing--40)\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-style-section-3 has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-52009084 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained is-style-section-3--7\" style=\"padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--40);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--40);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--40);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--40)\">\n<p style=\"font-style:normal;font-weight:700\">Online safety and security<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p style=\"font-style:normal;font-weight:700\">Your online identity<br>How can you protect yourself?<br>Online safety tips and resources<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-medium-font-size is-content-justification-space-between is-nowrap is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-cb46ffcb wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\">\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/guides.libraries.uc.edu\/digliteracy\/protect\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/guides.libraries.uc.edu\/digliteracy\/protect<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a>Engaging Technology Activities \u2013 Introduction to Computer<\/a><\/h1>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a>\ud83c\udfc1 Getting Started<\/a><\/h1>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Digital Icebreakers \u2013 Describe what you already use (TV remotes, ATMs, or voice assistants).<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Technology Show-and-Tell \u2013 select a device (phone, tablet, or laptop) and share something you do and want to do with it.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>This printout provides suggestions of items we can dive into together.<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a>\ud83d\udcf1 Smartphone Confidence Builders<\/a><\/h1>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><td><strong>Goal<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Activity Ideas<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>Comfort with Touchscreens<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Use a drawing or note-taking app to sign your name or draw a smiley face.<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Understanding Apps<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Explore and organize apps \u2014 move one, uninstall one, add one.<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Taking and Sharing Photos<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Take selfies or group photos and share via text or email.<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Voice Commands<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Ask Google or Siri to tell a joke, the weather, or play a song.<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>QR Code Scavenger Hunt<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Scan QR codes that reveal trivia or fun facts.<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Emergency Readiness<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Practice calling or texting emergency contacts; check volume settings.<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a>\ud83d\udda5\ufe0f Computer Basics &amp; Fun Exploration<\/a><\/h1>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><td><strong>Goal<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Activity Ideas<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>Using the Mouse &amp; Keyboard<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Play mouse or typing games (such as solitaire, jigsaw puzzles, or Paint).<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Creating Folders &amp; Files<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Organize photos into folders by year or event.<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Internet Exploration<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Visit Google Earth or virtual museum tours.<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Email Practice<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Write an email and attach a picture.<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Online Safety<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Play a \u201cSpot the Scam\u201d game using examples of suspicious emails.<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a>\ud83c\udf0d Connecting with Family &amp; Community<\/a><\/h1>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><td><strong>Goal<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Activity Ideas<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>Video Calling<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Practice FaceTime, Zoom, or WhatsApp video calls.<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Digital Scrapbook<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Create a photo collage with Google Photos or Canva.<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Social Media Practice<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Post a photo or comment safely on Facebook or Instagram.<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Music Memories<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Use YouTube or Spotify to play songs from their youth.<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Community Messaging<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Join a local online group chat or newsletter mailing list.<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a>\ud83c\udfa8 Learning Through Creativity<\/a><\/h1>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><td><strong>Goal<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Activity Ideas<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>Writing Memories<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Type short stories, recipes, or life lessons.<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Digital Art<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Try Paint, Canva, or coloring apps.<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Photo Editing<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Crop or brighten photos on a smartphone.<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Podcast Listening<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Discover and listen to podcasts on topics that interest you.<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Mini Research Project<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>\u201cFind three pictures of your hometown in the 1950s.\u201d<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a>\ud83d\udd10 Confidence &amp; Safety<\/a><\/h1>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><td><strong>Focus<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Practice Ideas<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>Password Basics<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Create a password \u201crecipe\u201d (favorite color + year + symbol).<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Privacy Settings<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Adjust app permissions (photos, location).<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Scam Awareness<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Role-play identifying fake texts or emails.<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Online Shopping Safety<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Compare trusted store sites (Amazon, Target, Walmart).<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a>\ud83e\udde0 Games That Teach<\/a><\/h1>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><td><strong>Type<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Example Activities<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>Brain Games<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Play Wordle, Sudoku, or Lumosity.<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Trivia &amp; Memory<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Kahoot quizzes or a Jeopardy-style PowerPoint.<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Typing Practice<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Play TypeRacer or type your favorite song lyrics.<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a>\ud83c\udf1f Celebration &amp; Reflection<\/a><\/h1>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Create a \u201cTech Progress Chart\u201d to track skills learned.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Host a Showcase Day where learners demonstrate something new.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Take a Group Photo using a smartphone and print copies for everyone.<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Weblinks to explore<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.google.com\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"www.google.com\">www.google.com<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.wikipedia.org\">www.wikipedia.org<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.reddit.com\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"www.reddit.com\">www.reddit.com<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.chatgpt.com\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"www.chatgpt.com\">www.chatgpt.com<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.yahoo.com\">www.yahoo.com<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.tiktok.com\">www.tiktok.com<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.ncc.edu\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"www.ncc.edu\">www.ncc.edu<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Adult Education Classes<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncc.edu\/continuingeducation\/\">Continuing Education &#8211; Nassau Community College Long Island Courses<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.westburyschools.org\/about\/adult-continuing-education\">Adult Continuing Education &#8211; Westbury Union Free School District<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.glencoveschools.org\/families\/adult-education\">Adult Education &#8211; Glen Cove City School District<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bellmore-merrick.k12.ny.us\/parentsstudents\/adult_continuing_education\">Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District Parents\/Students | Adult Continuing Education<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.microsoft.com\/en-us\/microsoft-365\/onedrive\/online-cloud-storage\">Personal Cloud Storage \u2013 Microsoft OneDrive<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/?entry=wc\">Google Maps<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Hardware and Electricity Inputs, outputs, and electricity. Software Instructions Operating System (OS) software and Applications software Introduction to Computer Basics March 3, 2026 \u2b50 Session 1 \u2014 Google Drive Essentials Introduction to cloud storage fundamentals\u2014the core skill needed to organize, protect, and access their digital files anywhere. The purpose is to ensure learners understand how [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false,"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-3347","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"jetpack_shortlink":"https:\/\/wp.me\/P2Cll0-RZ","jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.nytechnologist.com\/beyondthebasics\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/3347","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.nytechnologist.com\/beyondthebasics\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.nytechnologist.com\/beyondthebasics\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.nytechnologist.com\/beyondthebasics\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.nytechnologist.com\/beyondthebasics\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=3347"}],"version-history":[{"count":19,"href":"https:\/\/www.nytechnologist.com\/beyondthebasics\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/3347\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":3594,"href":"https:\/\/www.nytechnologist.com\/beyondthebasics\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/3347\/revisions\/3594"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.nytechnologist.com\/beyondthebasics\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=3347"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}