Basic Computer Training: What Is it, and Why Is it Necessary?
Posted on 01/20/2022 by Niko Venev
The definition of "basic computer skills" can vary depending on individual needs, the industries in which people work, their specific positions, and even current trends in technology. There are, however, certain skills that serve as a solid foundation to perform basic tasks on a computer. A good set of these computer skills often signals to employers that job applicants are ready to perform the tasks of a professional the day they're hired.
What Is Basic Computer Training?
Generally speaking, basic computer training teaches a set of fundamental skills to individuals who are new to using computers or particular pieces of software. Basic computer skills allow employees to perform common functions rather than explore advanced features. When training, students might find themselves learning a host of skills that are considered to be the foundation of modern-day computing, such as:
- Navigating an operating system
- Identifying and organizing computer files
- Creating documents in popular office software
- Sending correspondence through email clients
- Understanding and mitigating security threats
In addition, depending on the industry in which an employee works, proficiency with certain types of software may also be considered basic computer skills or even encompass qualifications for a job. For example, someone who works in an office may be required to know how to use word-processing software. Individuals who are currently seeking employment would do well to invest in professional software courses covering computer training. Basic information about job qualifications and requirements found in job listings can often point applicants in the right direction when it comes to determining which skills they need to learn to be employable. Common types of software that employers may want job candidates to be familiar with can include:
- Productivity software
- Presentation software
- Image editors
- Accounting software
- Software that facilitates collaboration or communication
While new employees are often taught the basics of computer literacy, seasoned professionals might also find themselves needing to brush up on their knowledge. In situations like these, the professional may be someone who is used to using analog equipment to perform job duties. They may find that migrating their tasks to a computer can be a convenient alternative to time-consuming or manual alternatives. For example, a bookkeeper who has kept paper ledgers or used basic spreadsheets for years may discover that importing their data into accounting software may help them save time and improve their accuracy.
Why Learn Basic Computer Skills?
Since each profession has its own requirements, there's no hard-and-fast answer to the question, "What is basic computer training?" But certificate holders who can prove that they've mastered the software fundamentals in terms of the specific job that they'll perform often have an advantage over those who lack certification. Learning basic computer skills, whether that means understanding what a file extension is or earning a CompTIA A+ certification, is sure to be a sound investment in your career if you intend to work in an office setting. It can prove that you're ready to adopt and adapt to new technologies while also readying you to face customers or clients in an increasingly online world.
Go at Your Own Speed With Self-Paced Courses
If students have a basic understanding of how to use a computer and want to improve their skills by taking courses without the pressure of a live instructor watching them, they have the option to enroll in self-paced computer software training classes. Self-paced courses allow students to learn online and on their own time. These types of courses can be especially beneficial for students who find computer or software concepts to be hard to grasp and need extra time to sit with the lessons. At Certstaffix Training, we've made countless of these types of classes available for employees who want to improve their knowledge or candidates who want to enter a competitive job market with the right skills in hand. We also offer an array of live, hands-on classes with professional instructors. No matter which option is best for you, we can help you get the skills you need!
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How Much Do Computer Training Courses Cost?
Public instructor-led Computer Skills course prices start at $275 per student. Group training discounts are available.
Self-Paced Computer Skills eLearning courses cost $250 at the starting point per student. Group purchase discounts are available.
What Basic Computer Skills Should I Learn?
A: If you are wondering what basic computer skills are important to learn, we've written a Computer Skills and Learning Guide that maps out the basic computer skills that are key to master and which of our courses teaches each skill.
What Should I Look for in Computer Training for Government Employees?
A: Whether you're a government representative aiming to train staff or an employee looking to hone workplace skills, identifying appropriate training resources can be paramount to your success. Government agencies often require that their employees remain compliant with protocols, regulations, and laws that put a premium on ethics and security, so it can be necessary to find training programs that comply with those policies. They may also need their employees to remain current on technological advancements, software updates, or accessibility mandates. Before enrolling in training, ensure that courses meet your particular needs and are compliant with any business or industry-specific rules.
More Information on Computer Training for Government Organizations
What Are Some of the Best Practices for Computer Training?
A: Some of the best practices for software and computer training involve detailed planning, honest assessments of staff, and a collaborative effort between employers and instructors. Great training practices require going beyond the basics, starting with making sure that the trainers are well-equipped to lead their classes. It's crucial to ensure that students have access to a live instructor, and all training should provide real-world simulations of how the software works. Employees' attitudes toward workplace changes and software adoption should also be assessed to determine how effective scheduled training could be. When employers consider all of these factors when planning and offering courses, the potential for implementing successful training increases.
What Are the Benefits of Professional Training for Employees?
A: Investing in employee training for your staff can be extremely beneficial to your company. Having employees learn new, relevant skills or hone their existing ones can result in measurable increases in productivity, efficiency, and profits. Intangible benefits can include boosting your staff's confidence and job satisfaction. Depending on the types of courses chosen, employers and employees can also stay current on policies, regulations, and laws governing their business or industry. Custom or comprehensive classes taught by live instructors can teach staff exactly what they need to learn to be productive employees.
More Information on the Benefits of Professional Training for Employees
How Can I Create an Effective Employee Training Program?
A: If you're an employer, creating an effective training program for staff can be as simple as identifying your goals and objectives, taking your employees' skills and experience into consideration, determining learning styles, and working with an instructor to combine all of these factors into an educational strategy. While addressing logistics, like scheduling and providing adequate educational resources, is important, you should also spend time building your program using tried-and-true methods like incorporating interactive elements and implementing success metrics. Working with a live instructor can further increase the chances that your staff will complete courses as knowledgeable and skilled individuals.
More Information on How to Create an Employee Training Program
What Are Basic Computer Skills That Adults Should Learn?
A: Basic computer skills can take on various meanings for employees. Definitions can include a general knowledge of hardware and software that allows you to use a computer, introductions to specialized programs, or if an employee already works in an office setting, skills that allow them to work with common office applications. The types of computer skills that you should learn can depend on your skill level, your professional goals, and your employer's needs. After signing up for the appropriate preparation courses, you might even pursue certifications to demonstrate your proficiency with hardware or software and establish yourself as a professional.
What Are the Characteristics of Computer-Based Learning?
A: Since computer-based learning can take many different forms, its characteristics can depend on the particular type of training that you choose. Generally, however, you can expect to find that computer-based learning offers many of the same benefits that traditional classrooms do, but with advantages such as the digitization of educational materials, emphasis on interactivity, gamification, customization, and real-time assessments. Educational materials can also be delivered without an instructor. Individuals who want to try computer-based learning can opt for remote classrooms, choose self-paced courses, or even use local software to learn concepts.
More Information on the Characteristics of Computer-Based Learning
Where Can I Learn More About Computer Skills?
Computer Training Blogs
- Windows 11 Archives | Windows Blog
- Windows 11/10 Tips, Tricks, Help, Support, Downloads, Features
- Microsoft 365 Blog
- The Official Microsoft Blog
- Office Insider Blog
Computer Training User Groups
Computer Training Online Forums
Software Training
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- QuickBooks Training Houston
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