Computer Applications are those programmes designed for the end user. Applications software (also called end-user programmes) include such things as database programs, word processors, Web browsers and spreadsheets.
- Word Processing, Spreadsheets, Presentation.
Microsoft is the leader in the field, but there are others
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- Microsoft 365 Fundamentals Office 365 Enterprise includes the latest Office apps for your PC and Mac (like Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook), and a full suite of online services for email, file storage and collaboration, meetings, and more. Windows 10 Enterprise, secure version of Windows with comprehensive deployment, device, and app management. Enterprise Mobility + Security (EMS) Designed to help manage and protect users, devices, apps, and data in a mobile-first, cloud-first world. Includes Microsoft Intune, Azure AD Premium, and Azure Rights Management.
- NOTE: While the course is free, you need to pay for the exam. Those that graduate from this course and pass the exam may continue their Microsoft education in courses like the Modern Desktop Administrator Associate and Enterprise Administrator Expert courses.
- Spreadsheets alternative
- Presentations alternative
- Databases
- The modern business world is built on information stored in databases. The challenge comes in using the right database with the right structure to hold the information you need, while being able to access that data easily.
- This article suggests these: Microsoft Azure or Oracle Autonomous Database or TeamDesk or Knack or TablePlus
- https://www.techradar.com/best/best-database-software
- Graphics
There are many graphics programs supported by learning material online, from the most basic to the professional.
- Here is a list: https://financesonline.com/top-20-graphic-design-software-solutions/
- As you will see from that list, Adobe leads the way but they are commercial products and so you may prefer others like Canva, which are free. All of thes products have training modules online and you can also use the help menus when you are stuck.
- Social Media
These are the applications which are popular now: Facebook, YouTube, WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, WeChat, Instagram, Twitter, Reddit, LinkedIn, Snapchat, Pinterest, Discord.
- If your job depends on using Social Media, especially for marketing purposes then increasing your knowledge will benefit you. You will find online courses as well as help from the HELP MENU.
MORE INFORMATION AND RESOURCES TO HELP YOU MASTER TECH LEARNING ONLINE
W3Schools.com
W3Schools.com focuses on written instruction and coding exercises on their site. They include HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Python, jQuery, SQL, PHP, Bootstrap, XML
It is free for anyone to use. If you prefer video instruction, you may not enjoy this site as much. However, the coding exercises are easy and fun to use. Any experienced computer programmer will tell you that the best way to learn coding is to “tinker” with the language until you feel comfortable with it.
If you want a certificate it will cost you for example: HTML $95 (roughly R1700)
Udemy (Computer Skills Courses)
Udemy is not free, but they are low-cost (most courses cost less than R150). Their course catalog is vast. If you are looking to learn about specific computer skills or programs, you can use the search bar at the top to find what you are looking for.
Udemy: Master Computers – From Beginner to Expert in One Week
This is one Udemy class that many students with bare minimum computer knowledge say they enjoyed. The instructor is a former college professor. Check out the preview on the right-hand side, and read through the course overview to see if this is a course you’d be interested in.
MIT Opencourseware: Introductory Programming Courses
Massachusetts Institute of Technology is perhaps one of the world’s leading tech universities. Naturally, tuition costs are extremely high. But the MIT Opencourseware is a registry of free online classes.
App Academy
App Academy is a Silicon Valley computer programming school. It was the first coding school to base students’ tuition on their first year’s salaries after the course. They say ‘No matter what changes, we will continue to tie our success to yours.’ , Switchup, a comprehensive resource where prospective students can compare top-rated tech bootcamps and programs, gave it a 5 star rating.
edX Computer Science
edX is a platform for education and learning. Founded by Harvard and MIT, it is home to a majority of top-ranked universities in the world. Fulfilling the demand for people to learn on their own terms, edX is provides stackable learning experiences including the MicroMasters® programs. Courses ranging from data and computer science to leadership and communications.
Example: Python for Data Science. Beginner friendly. This course is part of a Professional:
1 Weeks Effort: 2–5 hours per week Price: FREE Add a Verified Certificate for $39 (about R700)
LinkedIn Learning (Beginner Computer Skills Courses)
LinkedIn is not just a professional social media platform, it also is a place for people to build basic computer skills.
Also, if you haven’t already built a LinkedIn Profile, doing so will help you become acquainted with some critical computer skills to boost your professional career (as well as help you connect with peers and potential employers).
Coursera
Coursera offers a wide range of courses from leading universities, free to start, and a fee once you want a certificate.
