We all know that Computer literacy has unprecedented advantages in the modern highly digitalized world. In other words, it is right to say that digital skills are not an option anymore. These skills are a prominent demand by almost all employers in the workforce. Today, with the growing popularity of online schooling, these skills are also the foundation of learning relevant skills for the future.
Do you know that computer skills (essential digital skills) can make a life-changing impact on the employment benefits of individuals?
Here’s some data from the United Kingdom that shows the monetary benefits of acquiring digital skills.
What Are the Basic Computer Skills?
1. Organizing Files and Folders
Basic PC skills like managing space in the hard drive, naming folders, and sorting files according to size, name, type, etc. are quite essential in today’s world. A user must know about the basic file formats to understand the compatibility and correct use of the file as per its name/extension type.
2. Understanding Extensions
For instance, if a file has an extension .docx it needs Microsoft Word to be opened correctly. In addition, any editing requires an editable version. Because options like ‘Read-Only’ are meant only for viewing purposes. Simple information like this is a savior for everyday tasks/activities. In addition, users need to know the ways to manage space through external storage drives (like flash drives, etc.).
3. Netiquette
Despite computer literacy, many internet users fail to understand the right ways of communicating politely or professionally. An SMS or chat language is completely different from a professional e-mail. On the other hand, social media is all the more different. For instance, there is a lot of importance given to the selection of words in an e-mail. While the same is negligible in any casual interactions through chats or social media communications.
4. Professional Language
We must avoid the use of shortcuts, abbreviations, and slang that break the flow and professionalism of an e-mail or create ambiguity in any sense. To sum up, an online student must know the difference between formal and informal language along with the rules of presentation (like an e-mail must have a subject line and a salutation).
5. Knowledge of Internet Tools
Different applications, programs, and features are readily available for the users. To acquire the Basic Computer Skills for beginners one must know the right use of web browsers (Like Microsoft Edge, Chrome, Firefox, etc.).
6. Privacy
A user must also know about data privacy and the threats involved in insecure/irresponsible internet use. While options like bookmarking sites, saving passwords, etc. seem highly beneficial in everyday life, the threats through suspicious websites, ad banners, and inappropriate activity are always there.
7. Seamless Functioning
It is best to understand the right ways of logging in, and logging out. One must know the benefits of adopting practices like clearing caches and cookies periodically for smooth device functioning. All these basic PC skills make the day-to-day tasks seamless.
8. Troubleshooting
It is better to know about additional information such as motherboard, hard drive, processing unit, settings, operating system, processors, compatible browsers, etc., and learn about basic troubleshooting steps.
9. Miscellaneous Skills
One’s typing speed, swift use of the mouse, hand-eye coordination, and research skills define their computer literacy. For students, these skills can be mastered by the time they become independent from their middle school stages.
10. Suspicious Activity
Today, students need to go beyond the basic skill of computer. And understand the threats to make safe use of the internet. They need to know about everyday problems like suspicious malware and websites to make the most of their learning. All online students must also know in detail about social networking sites. In addition, the knowledge of digital footprints adds more value to their academic journey.
Why Computer Skills Are Essential for Online Students?
Career Prospects
Let’s take you through some interesting facts again!
The present-day workforce is highly skill-driven in every sense. At the same time, online students have an edge over their traditional peers in terms of acquiring and honing digital skills. These crucial skills are the foundation of the best career opportunities across the globe.
68% of companies consider technological literacy as the third most important skill, after creative thinking and analytical thinking.
Other than the need for reskilling, upskilling, and computer literacy, digital transformation of the workplace also has promising prospects for remote jobs. This trend will certainly grow at an exponential rate. Because the global digital transformation spending is estimated to reach 3.4 trillion U.S. dollars by 2026. While the same was 1.6 trillion U.S. dollars back in the year 2022.
Other than the prospects, computer skill (specific digital skills) also helps in reducing the risk of automation by almost 59% (Source- Burning Glass Technologies Report).
Know the best practices of International Schooling in detail through our official website. > Fortunately, there are many ways of learning basic computer skills without investing a huge amount. You can find some good online courses through eminent platforms (like Khan Academy and Udemy etc.). For basic skill of computer you can also select a course that is free of cost or one with a minimum fee amount. Students can use content such as technical articles/blogs/literature etc. from the internet. They can also join groups, forums, etc. that answer random questions related to computer handling. Another way to hone these skills is to seek the help of friends/peers/teachers/family members etc. who are already proficient in using this machine. In addition, a full-fledged computer course is always an option. In this digitalized world, computer skill is a must. Students can use the power of technology to acquire many more skills easily. Support your students in all possible ways to develop these skills. Only then they will be able to prepare for a competitive world and craft a promising career in the global workforce. The post 10 Highly Valued Basic Computer Skills for the Future appeared first on International Schooling.How to Learn Basic Computer Skills?
How to Improve Your Computer Skills?
Quick Tips for Online Students
Final Thoughts
Frequently Asked Questions
You can enroll in a course, or ask your friends or family members to help you. And join groups that are willing to clarify your doubts. The internet readily has a lot of content that can be accessed free of cost to gain knowledge of basic computer skills for beginners.
To master the basic skills of computers, one needs to learn the basics right, practice a lot, and clarify doubts. It is also a good idea to read more tech-related literature. In addition, the free courses offered by platforms can also be good ways of honing these relevant skillsSuggested Read
