This textbook covers Module 1: Concepts of IT and Module 2: Using a Computer and Managing Files for ECDL version 4. Written in a straightforward style, this book will be a useful guide for students studying for the ECDL (European Computer Driving Licence) qualification.

The European Computer Driving Licence (ECDL) is an internationally recognised qualification for IT skills. There are 7 modules in total. Written in a lively but straightforward and easy-to-follow style, this book will be an indispensable guide for all students studying for the ECDL qualification. This book covers the following 2 modules: Module 1: Concepts of Information Technology; This module will give you an understanding of some of the main concepts of IT at a general level.; Module 2: Using the Computer and Managing Files; This module covers the use of the common functions of a personal computer to enable a user to operate a PC effectively. Step-by-step instructions, jargon-free text and lots of screenshots make this book ideal for either class teaching or individual study. Requires no previous knowledge; Uses Windows XP; Practical approach and sample exercises to build confidence; Endorsed by ECDL

Module 1
Chapter 1.1 General Concepts
A world of computers
Hardware and software
Types of computer
Personal computers
Chapter 1.2 Hardware
Central Processing Unit
The processor
Computer memory
Computer performance
Input devices
Output devices
Input/Output devices
Storage Devices
Other removable storage
Exercises
Chapter 1.3 Software
Types of software
Operating System software
Graphical User Interface
Applications software
Systems Development
Analysis
Design
Programming
Testing
Evaluation
Chapter 1.4 Information Networks
Local area networks
Advantages of networks
Disadvantages of networks
Wide area networks
The telephone network in computing
PSTN
ISDN
ADSL
The Internet
E-commerce
Purchasing over the Internet
E-mail
Intranets and Extranets

Chapter 1.5 Computers at Work
Computers or people?
Business
Government
Healthcare
Education
Teleworking
Ergonomics
Health issues
Safety precautions
The Environment
Chapter 1.6 Legal Issues
and Security
Copyright
Personal privacy
The Data Protection Act
The Data Protection Principles
Data security
backup procedures
Access controls
Theft
Computer viruses
Module 2
Chapter 2.1 The Desktop
First steps
Switching on.
Icons
Task bar
Using the mouse
The Start button
The parts of a window
Moving and resizing a window
Switching off your computer
Restarting your computer
Chapter 2.2 Creating and
Printing Files
A text editing application
File types
Creating Word documents
Creating some spreadsheet files
Printing a file
The desktop print manager
Pausing, restarting or deleting a print job
Shutting down a non-responding application
Chapter 2.3 Folders and Files
Disk drives on your computer
Directories/folders
Creating a new folder
Navigating to a file or folder
Renaming a file
Changing file status
Sorting files
Selecting files and folders
Copying and moving files and folders
Making backup copies
Deleting files and folders
The Recycle Bin
Emptying the Recycle Bin
Drag and Drop
Navigating within an application
Windows Explorer
Chapter 2.4 Working with Files
Compressing files
Extracting a compressed file
Searching for files
Viewing recently used files
Viruses
Chapter 2.5 Managing the
Desktop
Creating and removing a desktop icon
Creating a printer icon
Creating and using a file icon
Basic system information
Changing the background
Setting up a screen saver
Changing the screen resolution
Other display settings
Changing the computer's date and time
Changing the volume settings
Changing keyboard language
Formatting a floppy disk or a zip disk
Installing/uninstalling a software application
The Windows Help and Support Centre.
Print screen facility
Changing the default printer
Installing a new printer.