LibGuides: PrePALS Technology: Computer Basics

Computer Basics

Getting Started with Computers

If you've never used a computer before (or it's been a very long time), it can feel pretty intimidating because there is so much to know and you may not know where to begin. The resource linked in this section can help you understand the very basics: what a computer is and how it works.

Directions: Click on the link below (the bolded text) and complete the short course, including the practice questions. Your PrePALS instructor can help you get started if you need some assistance.

Getting Started on a Computer
This link takes you to a 5-lesson short course on the basics of computers. It covers what a computer is, the mouse, the keyboard, and computer ports. It also provides some practice questions to complete at the end. The five lessons have an estimated completion time of 21 minutes. This course is written for the beginning computer user.

Using Campus Computers, WiFi, and Other Technology Tools at Western Technical College

Every student and staff member at Western will have their own information for logging in to use campus computers, wifi, and other technology tools. You will need to know your student ID number and password to use campus technology.

There are a number of computers available on campus for Western students and staff. Information about campus computer labs is available here.

Directions: If you are on campus, use your student ID and password to log in to a campus computer. If you are off campus, use your student ID and password to try logging in to MyWestern. If you have any trouble with this, contact the IT Help Desk (608-789-6266) for assistance.

How to Reset Your Campus Password
This page describes the process for resetting your student password. You will need to know your student ID number to use this process. If you don't know your number or need help with this process, you can call the IT Help Desk at 608-789-6266 for assistance.

Some Practice Activities

Now that you have some familiarity with using a computer, here are a few activities you can work on to practice your skills. You can complete all of these activities using any Western Technical College computer.

Log into the computer and locate the search bar at the bottom of the screen.
Find a program called "Google Chrome" and launch the program. Type "Western Technical College" in the search bar at the top of the screen and hit Enter.
Try to locate the Western Technical College website and click the link to visit the site. Look for the "Current Students" tab at the top of the page and click the link to go to that page.
Practice closing Google Chrome.
Log out of the computer.

Your PrePALS instructor may also give you additional assignments or activities.