Computer Education Resources

~ Computer Training: Video Series - A 28 part video series by Dave Andrews about everyday computer functions on eHow.
* How to Find a File on Your Hard Drive: In order to find a file on a computer's hard drive, right-click on the C drive and select "search," which will bring up the Windows search screen. Find out why it's important to know the exact name of a file being searched for with help from a software developer in this free video on computer files.
* How to Remove Items From the Start Menu: In order to remove an item from Windows' start menu, right-click on the item, and select "remove from this list." Remove recently used programs from the list in the start menu with help from a software developer in this free video on computer files and programs.
* How to Record a Sound on a Windows Computer: Before attempting to record a sound on a Windows computer, it's important to have access to some sort of microphone. Discover how recorded sounds are saved digitally to a computer with help from a software developer in this free video on computer audio recordings.
* How to Format Text in Microsoft Word: Formatting text in Microsoft Word involves selecting a specific font size, selecting a font style and deciding whether to make the text bold. Find out how to italicize text in Microsoft Word to give it more flair with help from a software developer in this free video on Microsoft Word.
* How to Print Continuing Row & Column Headings for an Excel Worksheet: In order to print out row and column headings in an Excel worksheet, go to the "Page Layout" tab and check the "Print" box next to the word "Headings." Preview a print job in Excel to make sure it is set up correctly with help from a software developer in this free video on Microsoft Excel.
* How to Get Rid of a Computer Virus: In order to get rid of computer viruses, use a free anti-virus program that can be downloaded over the Internet called Avast. Avoid installing anti-virus software if there is already such software on a computer with help from a software developer in this free video on computer viruses.
* How to Open the Windows Registry Editor: Opening the Windows registry editor means clicking on "Run" in Windows' start menu and typing in "regedit." Run the registry editor as an administrator with help from a software developer in this free video on Windows registry editors.
* How to Quick Format a Drive or Removable Media in Windows: In order to quick format a drive, open up the drive under "My Computer," select the drive and click on "Format." Do a quick format on a drive and empty the drive of all of its files with help from a software developer in this free video on computer drive formatting.
* How to Make Address Labels: Address labels can be made on a computer by using either Microsoft Excel or Microsoft Word. Discover how to conduct a mail merge in Microsoft Excel with help from a software developer in this free video on Microsoft Word and Excel.
* How to Load an Operating System on a Computer: Loading an operating system, or OS, onto a computer means using the CD that has the operating system on it, whether it is from an OEM or an equipment manufacturer. Buy a new license for a Windows XP CD with help from a software developer in this free video on computer operating systems.
* How to Make a Graph Using Excel: Microsoft Excel can be used to make a graph by inserting data, creating tabs and making charts. Learn about the different charts and graphs that Excel can generate with help from a software developer in this free video on Microsoft Excel.
* How to Replace the Operating System of a Computer: Replacing the operating system of a computer requires the use of the CD that was used to originally load the operating system. Find out why it's important to keep the CDs that come with a new computer with help from a software developer in this free video on computer operating systems.
* How to Put More RAM in a Laptop: In order to put more RAM, or memory, into a laptop, it's important to first check and see if there is an open slot for new RAM. Discover how to physically add a stick of RAM to a computer with help from a software developer in this free video on computers and RAM.
* How to Make a Slide Show With Music: The easiest way to make a slide show with music on a computer is to use Microsoft PowerPoint and upload music files. Find out how to insert slides within Microsoft PowerPoint with help from a software developer in this free video on Microsoft PowerPoint.

* How to Get Rid of Command Adware: In order to get rid of command adware, it is advisable to use a program called Spybot Search and Destroy. Download the latest version of Spybot, and install updates with help from a software developer in this free video on computers and adware.
* How to Install an Operating System on a Computer: In order to install an operating system on a computer, a CD that contains the operating system is needed, and these CDs usually come with the computer. Buy an operating system CD at a store to ensure that it is legally licensed with help from a software developer in this free video on computer operating systems.
* How to Make Invitations on My Computer: Invitations can be created on a computer with Microsoft Word by implementing several components, including page borders and icons. Discover ways to adjust font to make invitations look more appealing with help from a software developer in this free video on Microsoft Word.
* How to Make Printable Invitations: Printable invitations can be made on Microsoft Word by adding page borders, adding art and altering the font. Find out how to preview in invitation before deciding to print it out with help from a software developer in this free video on Microsoft Word.
* How to Make a Pie Chart in a Spreadsheet: When using spreadsheets on Microsoft Excel, select all of the data in a row, click on the "Insert" tab, and select a type of pie chart. Create a 3D pie chart in a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet with help from a software developer in this free video on Microsoft Excel.
* How to Make Mailing Label: Microsoft Excel can be used to make mailing labels by implementing a Microsoft Word mail merge. Learn about using "Mailings" and an "Existing List" from an Excel spreadsheet to make mailing labels with help from a software developer in this free video on Microsoft Excel.
* How to Obtain Microsoft Certification: In order to obtain a Microsoft certification, go to Microsoft's Web site, and do a search for certification to read the overview. Learn about the different exams that a person can take for a Microsoft certification with help from a software developer in this free video on Microsoft certification.
* How to Optimize Laptop Battery Life: Optimizing battery life on a laptop computer requires clicking on the control panel, selecting "Power Options" and choosing when to turn off the laptop's display. Find out ways to conserve battery life on a laptop computer with help from a software developer in this free video on laptop batteries.
* How to Replace Laptop Batteries: Every laptop is made a little bit differently, but the batteries are often the same, and they are usually held in place by a spring-loaded lever. Learn about properly popping a laptop battery into place with help from a software developer in this free video on laptop batteries.
* How to Make a Flowchart on Microsoft Word: Microsoft Word can be used to make flowcharts by clicking on the "Insert" tab, selecting the "Shapes" button and choosing the flowchart option. Discover ways to drop processes into a flowchart with help from a software developer in this free video on Microsoft Word.
* How to Make a Flowchart in Excel: Microsoft Excel can be used to make flowcharts by clicking on the "Insert" tab and selecting "Flowchart" under the section for shapes. Find out how to draw a rectangle for a flowchart on a spreadsheet with help from a software developer in this free video on Microsoft Excel.
* How to Make an Employee Flowchart: In order to make an employee flowchart, use Microsoft Word, click on the "Insert" tab, find shapes, and click on "Process" under the flowchart section. Add text to an employee flow chart with help from a software developer in this free video on Microsoft Word.
* How to Repair a Laptop Hard : If a laptop is getting blue screen issues, this is usually due to a hard-drive problem, and the first step in such an instance is to backup all files. Discover methods of troubleshooting hard-drive problems with help from a software developer in this free video on computer hard drives.
* How to Recover a Hard Drive Crash: If a computer has a number of blue screen errors, it is usually in danger of crashing, and thus the user should use a check-disc program to scan the computer.

Help Button on Computer Keyboard

~ Video Professor

~ Computer Basics & Beyond: If you only start with one site that I list
on this page, this may be the one you want to pick. Included are:
* Basic Computer Tips
* Tutorials & Lessons
* Free Help Forums
* Web-Based Email
* Games Room
* Resources
* Search

~ Jan's Illustrated Computer Literacy 101:
* Computer Basics
* Working with Windows
* Working with Words
* Working with Numbers
* Working with the Web
* Working with Presentations
* Working with Databases
* Site Map
* Search
* Permissions Form
* Evaluation Form
* What's New
* Hall of Honor

~ Basic Computer Skills: Over 2000 articles and video tutorials about common computer functions are found at eHow. Most are short and easy to use whether you are a complete beginner or just want a few tips about a certain skill.

~ How to Learn Microsoft Word #1- File Menu
~ How to Learn Microsoft Word #2 - Selecting Text
~ How to Learn Microsoft Word #4 - The Edit Menu Part 2

~ Word Processing Software Articles: Articles at eHow regarding several different word processing programs and their attributes.

~ How to Use Microsoft Word & Excel: Check the right and left side for the "related articles and videos" to find lessons on numerous aspects of Word.

~ Learn2Type: Typing Test & Free Typing Tutor - "Typing Certification and Ten Key Certification are available! Learn2Type for Kids - simpler and educational typing exercise content for kids! 10 Key Numeric Keypad Test! AZERTY & Dvorak Keyboard - lessons! Education Resources - Find colleges online. Teachers and educators, your students can benefit from Learn2Type for Schools - FREE!"

~ Power Typing: Free online typing tutor lessons, tests, and games.

~ Typing Tutor: Bruce's Unusual Typing Wizard - Freeware Download. "This program teaches typing through lessons, a game, and the ability to practice typing along with included text or any text you have on your computer. It also includes a pattern detection feature that allows it to figure out where in the sentence you are typing. This eliminates frustration that occurs in other programs when you type one letter off."

~ Keyboarding Practice: 17 typing practice drills for different combination's of keys.

~ 10 Finger BreakOut: Free game to download and practice typing. Scroll to the bottom of the page to find other downloadable typing game, some of which are free.

~ Internet Basics Bee: "Confused about Internet basics? This introductory topic will teach you everything you need to know about surfing the Internet. We'll start with terms and techniques, and work our way to troubleshooting common problems. There are 7 lessons, each made up of a series of short steps. Start at the beginning or pick any lesson."

~ *Internet Island: Sailing the Cyber Seas: This site has some very basic definitions for internet terms along with links to several wonderful online lessons about the internet.

~ Web Research Guide: Learn how to do research over the internet with this quiz, tutorials, and websites for study.

~ NetSmartzKids: "Parents or caregivers, educators, government officials, law enforcement, and youth organizations that want to learn more about the Internet and the possible dangers to children online should visit www.NetSmartz.org. - To ensure a safe and positive experience for children, NetSmartzKids.org does not link to any outside sources. You can trust that this site is safe for your children. Please visit www.NetSmartz.org by typing the address into your browser."

~ What is a database and why do we have them?

~ How to Create a Simple Database Display Form: Check the "Related Articles & Videos" on each side of the page to find more tutorials about databases.

~ Database Software: Find learning materials for several types of databases so you may build a database with your particular software.

~ All About Spreadsheets: Includes numerous tutorials, videos, and articles to get you going on spreadsheets. Topics: Spreadsheets for Beginners; Spreadsheets Vs. Databases; How to Use Spreadsheets; How to Make Better Spreadsheets; How to Decide When to Use a Spreadsheet; What Is a Value on a Spreadsheet?; What is a Label on Spreadsheet?; How to Use a Spreadsheet to Budget; How to Make a Pie Chart in a Spreadsheet; How to Use an Open Office Spreadsheet; Microsoft Works Spreadsheet Tutorial; How to Make a Spreadsheet Using Excel; Changing Text & Row Sizes in Microsoft Excel; How to Use Subtotals & Totals in an Excel Spreadsheet; Tips on Excel Formulas; and more!

~ Find out about Microsoft EXCEL.

~Photoshop Adobe Basics: Many resources for beginning a study of Photoshop!

~ Photoshop Written Lessons at Wikiversity

~ How to Edit Pictures in Photoshop: 11 part video series by Jimmy Hartman at eHow. Includes: Applying Shadow & Highlight Effects; Applying Adjustment Layers & Levels Effects; Applying a Layer Mask; Applying Photo Filters in Post Production; Applying Hue & Saturation Effects; Changing the Exposure in Post Production; Comparing Your Final Result to Original Image; Accessing the Photomerge Dialog; Cropping Bad Edges; and Using the Interactive Layout Feature.

~ How to Use Layers in Photoshop: 17 part video series by Jimmy Hartman at eHow. Includes: Accessing the Layers Dialog Box; Using Dropshadow; Tips for Dropshadow Style; Using Inner Shadow; Using Outer Glow: Using Inner Glow; Using the Bevel Feature; Using the Emboss Feature: Using Bevel & Emboss; Using Satin Style: Using Color Overlay; Using Gradient Overlay; Using Pattern Overlay; Using Stroke Style; Creating Custom Style; Tips for Creating Custom Styles; Applying Custom Styles.

~ How to Create an Interactive Photo Gallery in Photoshop Elements: This article and many similar articles may be found at eHow. (Look on the top left for "More Articles Like This" and down on the right for "Related Articles & Videos".)

~ Photoshop Tutorials: Videos & Articles: Numerous resources for learning more about Photoshop!

~ Picasa - Free Photo Software: Learn about another photo enhancement program found on the web and how to use it with these videos and articles.

~ Power Point Heaven - The Power to Animate: "PowerPoint Heaven is a PowerPoint entertainment portal for PowerPoint animations, games, artworks, showcases, animation templates and tutorials. The focus of this site is to maximize the use of Microsoft PowerPoint and go beyond its capability. Our goal is to show users that PowerPoint is not simply a presentation tool, but is also capable on leveraging into other areas such as creating games, artworks and animations."

~ Power Point Heaven - Tutorials Page: "Your first step in creating entertainment on PowerPoint! In this section, you will be able to find step-by-step PowerPoint tutorials, tips and tricks on how to create sophisticated PowerPoint animations, games and artworks. You will also get to see reviews on impressive PowerPoint add-ins that are worth trying out."

~ Microsoft PowerPoint for Beginners: 19 part video series by Gary Zier at eHow includes: What is Microsoft PowerPoint?; How to use to Microsoft PowerPoint; Using Menus & Tools; Changing Views; Working with Master Templates; Working with Graphic Templates; Working with Objects; Using the Wizard; Creating a Presentation; Adding Slides; Adding Images; Adding Charts & Diagrams; Changing the Design of Slides; Changing Transitions; Setting Slide Show Parameters; Printing Options; and Finalizing a CD Presentation in PowerPoint. From this page you will find links to many other related videos and articles if you wish to go beyond the basics.

~ How to Make Microsoft PowerPoint Presentations: 16 part video series by Rick Kennedy at eHow includes: Introduction to Microsoft PowerPoint; Using Templates; Creating Slide Layouts; Changing Backgrounds; Adding Text; Animating Text; Creating Gradients; Adding Photos; Animating Photos; Animating Photos; Creating Slide Transitions; Adding Charts; and Testing Your PowerPoint Presentation.

~ HTML Source: HTML Tutorials - I really like the layout of this one. I feel like the author is speaking to me one on one which makes it easier to understand the steps as he 'talks' you through them. I wish I would have known about this page when I started because things would have been easier to learn. The lessons go way more advanced also for those of you who have been using basic codes for awhile.

~ HTML Tutorial: An Introduction and 15 Lessons on Website HTML

~ HTML Tutorials: 3 Levels of HTML Tutorials for Beginners, Intermediate, and Advanced: Each level has several sections for learning basics and much more.

~ HTML Basics at Programming-Guides.com - Tutorials, Examples, & Guides
* Introduction to HTML: This article discusses what is HTML, what to use to write HTML and what the contents of an HTML document should be.
* Versions: Discuss what versions of the HTML standard are there.
* Elements: The structure of HTML elements - the basic HTML building blocks. Introduces tags and attributes.
* Tags and Attributes: More about HTML tags and attributes including a more detailed explanation of their syntax.
* Comments: How to write comments in HTML and what to use them for.
* Document Structure: How to structure a basic HTML document. What are the basic HTML elements needed to get started writing an HTML document.
* Headings: The syntax and usage of the heading element in HTML.
* Paragraphs: The syntax and usage of the paragraph element in HTML. Introducing text modifiers.
* Lists: The syntax of ordered, unordered and definition list elements in HTML.
* Links: The syntax of links in HTML.
* Images: The syntax of the image element in HTML including required and optional attributes.
* Tables: The syntax and appropriate usage of HTML tables.
* Forms: The syntax and usage of HTML forms including a description of all available inputs with examples.
* Span and Div: A discussion of the generic container elements span and div.
* Meta Elements: HTML meta elements and their usage and effects.
* Javascript: Adding interactivity to an HTML document using JavaScript.
* DOCTYPE: How to write and use document type declarations in your HTML.
* HTML Reference
* Symbols: HTML Symbols

~ The "How To" Guide to Learning HTML teaches basic facts, commands, and colors for HTML.

~ CSS Tutorial: Introduction and 16 Lessons on using CSS on your website.

~ CSS Tutorials: 3 Levels of CSS Tutorials for Beginners, Intermediate, and Advanced: Each level has several sections for learning basics and much more.

~ Cascading Style Sheets; E-book Print Version: "This book is a guide to CSS-cascading style sheets, a technique widely used in web pages including Wikipedia to describe their visual style and appearance."

~ CSS Basics from Programming-Guides.com - Tutorials, Exercises, and Guides.
* What is CSS: what is it used for and what is its relation to HTML. What is the syntax of CSS and what versions are available.
* Applying CSS: Read about the different places where CSS can be specified.
* Selectors: Examples of CSS selectors - the various ways to identify an element or a group of elements.
* Inheritance and Specificity: Inheritance of properties of nested HTML elements. Selector priority based on specificity.
* Colors: How to specify color values in CSS.
* Units: The units of length in CSS - px, em, and percent.
* Text Properties: Text styles in CSS.
* Margins and Padding: Margins and Padding
* Borders
* Background: The background property in CSS - images and solid colors.
* The Display Property: The CSS display property; inline and block elements; display: none
* Styling Lists: Styling lists with the CSS properties list-style-type, list-style-position, list-style-image and list-style
* Styling Tables: Styling HTML tables using the CSS properties border, border-collapse, border-spacing.
* Pseudo Classes and Elements: Using pseudo classes and pseudo elements as selectors in CSS.
* Layout: Layout using the CSS position, width, height and float properties.
* CSS Properties: A complete list of CSS properties.
* Color Values: Color values for web-safe colors.

~ Computer Basics Lessons: at Jan's Illustrated Computer Literacy
1. Computer Types
2. Applications
3. Input
4. Processing Arrow:
5. Output
6. Storage
7. Computer to Computer
8. System Software
9. Programming
10. What You See
11. Hands On
12. On Your Own
Search
Glossary
Appendix

~ Computer Teaching Lesson Plans: all sorts of lessons, activities, and worksheets from Teachnology!

Elementary Lessons
~ 3 Easy Computer Lessons for : from Homeschool Helper.
~ Computer Lessons for Children: 4 starter lessons on parts, navigating the computer, word processing, and graphics.

~ Computer Lessons for Kids & Small Adults:
Introduction - Why is it good to learn how computers work?
Lesson 1 - What Do the Parts Do
Lesson 2 - The DOS Operating System
Lesson 3 - Files, the Overview
Lesson 4 - Files, They Are Like LP Records
Lesson 5 - Organizing Files Is Like Organizing Refrigerators

~ Computer Lapbook Pieces: Mini books for the following:
* Computer History - Write about the history of computers.
* Bits and Bytes - Define bits and bytes.
* Four Main Computer Parts - Show some of the different parts of computers.
* Input Devices - Describe how the keyboard and mouse work.
* Output Devices - Describe how printers and monitors work.
* Processing - Describe how computer processing works.
* Storage - Describe how computers store data.
* Operating System - Answer the questions about operating systems.
* Charles Babbage - notebooking page.

~ Computer Connections from Kaboose includes puzzles, coloring pages, worksheets, and lessons about computers.

~ Computer Connections: Inside & Out Lessons:
10 lessons with 2 accompanying worksheets each.
Lesson 1: Outer Hardware
Lesson 2: Hardware on the Inside
Lesson 3: Bits & Bytes
Lesson 4: Storage
Lesson 5: Programs
Lesson 6: Operating Systems
Lesson 7: Files & Folders
Lesson 8a: The Mac Desktop
Lesson 8b: The Windows Desktop
Lesson 9: Knowing Your System
Lesson 10: Computer Care & Safety

~ Safe Surfing Guide:
* Introduction * Surfing * Emailing * Boards & Chat * Tools * Links * Glossary

~ Computer Training for Kids:
* About Computer Lessons for Kids: Computers are an everyday part of life, and even most schools begin teaching computer lessons in kindergarten. Children must learn to use a computer or be lost in a society.
* How to Teach Basic Computers to a Kid: In today's society, both children and adults need to learn basic computer skills. The earlier you learn the basics, the quicker you can learn more advanced concepts.
* Using the Internet to Do Homework Research: Learn how to use internet search engines like Google as a resource to help your child with homework, with tips on promoting positive study habits, from a parenting expert.
* How to Study Computers in the Classroom: In my kindergarten classroom, I have been teaching a computer thematic unit since 1996.
* How to Teach Teenagers Film Editing: Once you have completed my first article: "How to Teach Teenagers Film Making," you are ready for Part 2: Editing.
* How to Teach Kids with Computers: When you teach kids with computers you maximize their potential for learning and developing needed skills. As most kids enjoy computers, their desire to learn may increase.
* Internet Safety Tips for Kids: Help your child use the internet safely and learn Internet safety tips and resource websites for kids in this free online video on responsible parenting and the internet.
* Typing for Kids: Teach your children to type. Learn how key time for kids works in this free video.
* Setting Up Easy Access Software for Kids: Raise a computer literate child and learn how to make installed software easier to access for kids on a child's computer in this free online video on responsible parenting.
* How to Use Readers Are Leaders: Success for your child will be based upon whether he is a good reader or not. It is a fact that many leaders are readers.
* ping Games for Kids: Typing games are appropriate for kids as young as the elementary school age, and are a great way to motivate children to familiarize themselves with a keyboard.
* How to Find Safe Online Games For Kids: You want your kids to have a fun and educational learning experience. Finding safe and educational games online can be kind of tricky.
* How to Download Kids Learning Games: Kids' learning games are invaluable in helping your children continue learning after their day care or school hours are over. Learning games help reinforce skills.
* How to Create a Map for Children: Teaching children how to find their way around by using a map is a very useful exercise that will help them navigate the world on their own.
* Putting Kids to Work for Stay at Home Moms: Being a mother is hard work, especially if you are running a home based business. Learn how to let your kids help you in this free video clip from a working mom.

~ Computer Task Cards: designed as fun activities for kids to do on their own for computer awareness.

Freebyte's Guide to Free Graphics Software ~ Paint Programs, Vector Drawing, Desktop Publishing, Icon Editors, Cursor Editors, Background-creation programs, Image Optimizers, Converters, & Viewers, Photo Albums, 2D Animation Software, GIf Animation software, Animation and 3-D software, Presentation Programs, Diagram software, Fractal Software, Various graphics utilities and services, Advanced & scientific graphics programs, Related links and resources

Graphic Design Software: "Featured 2D & 3D freeware list, free computer software downloads."
Free Graphics Software List from About.com
35 Free Graphics Programs from Mashable.

Graphic Designs Software: Suggested programs from CNet Download. (For Sale)

Freebyte Music Zone
Free Music Software