Computer Skills

This course introduces students to basic computer literacy. Students learn the fundamental skills needed for successful computer operations while also learning HTML coding and important cybersecurity protocols.

Overview

Course Description

In the first quarter, students learn practical computer skills, such as basic troubleshooting, the benefits of the Microsoft Office suite and other alternatives, and how to use different internet browsers. This course also shares some must-have apps which improve productivity and user experience. In the second quarter, students pivot to more advanced topics, including internet safety. Students learn to recognize scams like phishing, spam, and other security threats. Students also study the history of computers, and are introduced to a different technological innovator every week.

Prerequisites

There are no prerequisites for Computer Skills.

Students Will Learn

How to create professional papers, presentations, and spreadsheets using computer software

How to use and configure internet networks

How to tailor their computer experience to their needs with hand-selected apps

How to understand computer logic and operations

How to practice internet safety and etiquette

How to identify and protect against common cyber attacks

Live Class Sections

Only open sections are posted below. Sign up for one of the available class sections. All sections cover the same material, so pick the time that best fits your schedule. Don't worry if none of the live times work for you! You can still register for a section and watch the recordings of the live classes at your convenience.

Computer Skills is a semester-long course. Registration for the Fall term opens in late February.

Spring 2027

Jan 11, 2027 - May 8, 2027

Available Seats

Section Teacher

Wed2:00 p.m. ET

26 seats open

Gary Bush

What to Expect Weekly

We estimate that the course workload will take 5-7 hours per week. During a typical week, students complete the following coursework:

90 minutes of live class instruction
Recorded lecture
Class discussion post
Discussion application assignment
Worksheet
Quiz

Students complete a quiz each week, a midterm and final exam, a presentation about a technological innovator, and various homework assignments.

Course Materials

Books & materials are finalized before registration opens. In rare situations, however, they may change due to external circumstances.

Laptop or Desktop Computer

More Details

Minimum requirements are: Intel i3 or higher processor; Any Macbook, iMac, or MacBook Pro from 2016 or later. No Chromebooks.

The minimum requirements for a desktop computer or laptop are: Intel i3 or higher processor; any Macbook, iMac, or MacBook Pro from 2016 or later. No Chromebooks.

Examples:

Microsoft Word or Microsoft Account

Computer: A History of the Information Machine, 4th edition

by Campbell-Kelly, Martin Aspray, William Ensmenger, Nathan Yost, Jeffrey R.

ISBN: 978-1032203430

More Details

Description

Computer tells the story of the computer and internet, describing how technological innovations were often encouraged and prompted by government and business interests, and providing context for the range of innovations that we frequently take for granted.

Reason For Teaching

The intent of this book is to help students move from being mere consumers, to having a better understanding of the history, people, and contexts surrounding the technological innovations we often take for granted, while also gently exploring some of the ethical dilemmas arising from the use of technology.

Disclaimer

This text contains a small handful of references to adult content. While not graphic, these references depict some sad realities of a broken world. Students wishing to avoid such content should stay within the assigned pages. The first module of the course will include a note for parents, equipping them to have fruitful conversations with their students by identifying specific reading assignments they might consider previewing.

Master Teacher

Yuki Clark

BS, San Jose State University

Yuki Clark has a bachelor’s degree in journalism and mass communication and an art minor from San Jose State University. Her investment in the next generation currently involves both teaching with the Academy, and graphic design and video animation for a K-5... View full bio »

“

HSLDA Computer Skills course with Mr. Smith provided such a positive learning environment with high quality curriculum.

He provided knowledge and skills for my students that I could not have put together myself. Well worth the cost of the education in preparation for their future, in fact, we chose to do the Computer Skills class prior to College Dual Enrollment & my son said he cannot imagine taking online dual enrollment without FIRST having the knowledge he learned from HSLDA’s Computer Skills course.

Mrs. Heather from Florida

“

As someone who was fairly new to a lot of aspects of computers, this course was challenging at times, but I really liked it!

If you are interested in a course that not only covers the basics of how to interact with your computer as a user, and even some hands-on coding and programming, (and some other interesting concepts), but also goes through the ins and outs of the story behind how that computer and our modern tech in general came to be, (through solo breakthroughs of lone inventors, and ingenious teamwork alike) then this is the course for you!

Lily from Texas