Computing (Personal) and Mobile Devices

Course Overview

Type of Course and Awarding Body

College Certificate

Level

Level One

What's it all about?

The courses are all 'short courses' of anything between two and four nights over one or two weeks. Although the 'course' has a selection of units, it is possible to enrol on as few or as many of the units as you wish. Completing the given selection of units will result in an additional certificate.

Personal computing and computing technology is developing and improving on an almost daily basis. The technologies seen in Star Trek 20 years ago are now available in the shops (ie mobile communication and touch screen devices) all at fairly reasonable proces.

This course is about allowing you, the user, to get the most out of the technology which you buy. Covering mobile devices such as phones, music players, iPads and laptop/tablet computers this unit will allow you to gain the base skills to make sure you can use your new device to the fullest.

There is nothing more annoying after buying a new piece of gadgetry than not being able to use it to its fullest extent. In this unit we will look at how to make the most of a laptop, music players and software on the computer, smartphones and tablet devices such as iPads and Android Tablets.

You can enrol on as many or as few of the units on offer at any time. It is also possible to mix-and-match units across the courses being offered at the same time.

Within this course there is also a unit which introduces computer security and protecting your equipment through strong passwords, data security and physical security also.

Progression

It is possible to progress from any of the individual units on to another with ease.

Progressing to other courses within the Computing and Games Studies section or the College can be discussed with the lecturer or tutor to ensure correct guidance is given.

Progression to a full-time level one course would be a posibility.

Completing a selection of the units would benefit progression towards a level two qualification within the section.

Progression to a level three course (full-time) would require you to gain a complete level two course first.

Entry Requirements

The only entry requirements for these units are:

a willingness to attend
an interest to learn
a commitment to completing in-class work
owning equipment you wish to learn about is beneficial although not always necessary.

Duration

Up to four nights over two weeks per unit

Business Benefits

The use of mobile technology and devices has become an important part of business in the world today. This unit can help you develop basic skills for using those devices and getting the most out of the technology.

Run On Demand?

Yes

Roll On Roll Off?

Yes

Are there any exams?

There are no exams within these units although to be signed off as completed a small selection of tasks must be completed.

Course Content

What does the course involve?

The course contains a selection of units which are designed to develop the skills and abilities of the user; both at home and at work.

IT Security for Users

This unit is an introduction to keeping your equipment and data safe. You will look at the use of physical security (Kensington locks) and logical security (passwords, encryption, etc) to help you understand the benefits of these. You will also look briefly at biometric security and using the human person to secure the device.

Optimise IT System Performance

If you have a computer which is starting to slow down or become cumbersome there may not be a need to throw it out and get a new one. This unit will introduce you to ways of removing things which can slow your computer down such as old software and background activities and how to upgrade parts such as memory and processors to increase the speed of the system.

Self-Management Using IT

Almost everybody has a growing list of contacts and friends through business, personal life and on-line activity. This unit will help you manage those contacts, manage your own time and also be able to record activities. The aim of this unit is to introduce you to making the most of computer software for managing yourself and your communications.

Setting-up an IT System

If you want a new computer but do not want to buy it 'ready made' from the store then this unit can help you to consider both the software and hardware elements of setting up a new computer. The unit will get you to consider issues such as compatability and upgrading (including future-proofing) as well as software requirements and management.

Using Mobile IT Devices

Mobile technology (smartphones, tablets, laptops, etc) have all become everyday objects in business and for many in personal life too. This unit will allow you to become familiar with your devices and will show you how to make the most of the technology you own both at home and on the move.

When can I study?

Tuesdays and Thursdays, 5.30pm - 9.00pm

Course Facts

This course is run on a roll on roll off/run on demand basis, enrolments available throughout the year. . Please contact us for further information on 01752 305300 or e-mail info@cityplym.ac.uk.