NEW COMPUTER USERS
- New User TutorialIf you've never used a computer before, this tutorial will introduce you to some basic computer skills, such as holding and moving a mouse, clicking, scrolling, and using pull-down menus.
MOUSE PRACTICE
- Mouse Exercises @SeniorNet.orgPractice for mouse placement, clicking, and dragging and dropping. A particularly good exercise for senior citizens.
- Mousing AroundImprove your mouse skills using internet versions of such classic games as Battleship and Checkers.
COMPUTER BASICS: WEB RESOURCES
- Computer Basics (from Jan's Illustrated Computer Literacy 101)Described as "Driver's Ed for the computer," this free online class covers the basics of computer use in a friendly, easy-to-understand format.
- Computer Basics Quick Reference CardCovers the general concepts, vocabulary, and parts of a computer.
- GCFLearnFree.org free online classesFree online classes in the use of Microsoft Office products including Word, PowerPoint, Access, and Excel. Registration (free) is required. Begin with the computer basics tutorial.
- Northstar Basic Computer Skills AssessmentThis free assessment of basic skills needed to perform tasks on computers and online employs online, self-guided modules in eight areas: Basic Computer Use, Internet, Windows Operating System, Mac OS, Email, Microsoft Word, Social Media, and Microsoft Excel.
SAFARI BOOKS ONLINE: BASIC COMPUTER BOOKS
Safari Books Online is a digital library providing access to over 9,800 technology, digital media, business books, and videos online.
Below is a sampling of Safari Books basic computer titles. Click on the title to start reading online. If off campus, you will have to enter your username and password before being able to access the book.
Please note that Madison College Libraries has a license with Safari for 3 simultaneous users. If you can't get in right away, wait and try again.
TYPING PRACTICE
- Good TypingTake a free, online typing course with guided lessons. Tip: Click "try it without registering" on the left-hand side.
- Rapid Typing ZoneLearn techniques, play games, and test your typing speed.
- Sense-Lang.org Typing LessonsA free, user-friendly typing program to help you learn, practice, and improve your skills. When prompted to "choose a keyboard," select "regular keyboard" to start the program.
- Typing TestHow fast can you type? Find out with this free typing test that works in your web browser and takes only a couple of minutes to complete.