After completing European Computer Driving Licence: Understanding Information Technology, the user should be able to:

	Identify various kinds of computers, from mainframes to microcomputers
	Distinguish between computer hardware and software
	Identify the main parts of a personal computer
	Identify the steps in developing a computer-based system
	List several ways that networking extends the capabilities of a personal computer
	List several precautions to follow to prevent damage to a computer
	List several ways to protect data from being corrupted, stolen, or destroyed
	Distinguish differences among copyrighted software, shareware, and freeware

Getting Started

	Understanding Information technology
	Understanding computer types
	The main parts of a personal computer

Hardware and Storage

	Central Processing Unit
	Input and output
	Memory
	Computer performance

Software

	Types of software
	Operating system software
	Graphical User Interface
	Systems development

Information Networks

	LAN and WAN
	Telecommunications in computing
	The Internet
	Electronic mail

Computers in Everyday Life

	Computers in the home
	Computers at work
	Computers in the community
	Health and safety

Security, Copyright, and the Law

	Security
	Computer viruses
	Copyright
	Laws protecting privacy of information

This course has the following features:

	Exercises that allow users to explore how course topics contribute to their understanding of information technology
	A file containing the text of the exercises
	Simulations that allow users to apply concepts in an interactive environment
	A glossary
	A Skill Assessment

Familiarity with basic Windows functions (windows, icons, menus, scroll bars, mouse)

	European Computer Driving Licence: Using the Computer and Managing Files (EIDL02)
	European Computer Driving Licence: Word Processing (EIDL03)
	European Computer Driving Licence: Creating and Using Spreadsheets (EIDL04)
	European Computer Driving Licence: Creating and Using Databases (EIDL05)
	European Computer Driving Licence: Building and Delivering Presentations (EIDL06)
	European Computer Driving Licence: The World Wide Web and Electronic Mail (EIDL07)

"European Computer Driving Licence" and ECDL and Stars device are registered trade marks of the European Computer Driving Licence Foundation Limited in Ireland and other countries. MindLeaders.com, Inc., is an independent entity from the European Computer Driving Licence Foundation Limited, and not affiliated with the European Computer Driving Licence Foundation Limited in any manner. This course may be used in assisting students to prepare for the European Computer Driving Licence Examination. Neither the European Computer Driving Licence Foundation Limited nor MindLeaders.com, Inc., warrants that the use of this course will ensure passing the relevant Examination.

Microsoft® Windows® and/or other Microsoft products referenced herein are either trademarks or registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.

All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.