Computer Literacy Unlocked
Dr. Gene A Constant · the whole book, free to read here
- Names are learnable.
- Mystery is optional.
- Awareness is the price of independence.
The complete guide to digital confidence, from absolute beginner to tech-fluent in the age of AI. Twenty chapters: what a computer really is, how the internet works, files, typing, documents, spreadsheets, email, browsing, online safety, social media, the cloud, phones, AI, work, online learning, government services and troubleshooting. Written for adults. Read it here, or press Listen and have it read to you.
Stuck on a step? GENO, the free tutor in the corner of this page, answers questions about computers any time. Listening uses the voice built into your own device, and your place in the book is saved on your device only.
The free class: twenty lessons
One lesson per chapter, in the book's order. Each one breaks the chapter into its ideas, gives you something to work with your own hands, and asks new questions every attempt. All twenty are open. Free, no account, and your progress stays on your own device.
- 1What Is a Computer, Really?Input, processing and output; the CPU, RAM and storage pictured as a kitchen; software as instructions; updates from the right place; why computers are the control panels of modern life.Open
- 2How the Internet Actually WorksCables, routers, servers, IP addresses.Open
- 3Operating Systems: Your Computer’s Command CenterWindows, macOS, Chrome OS, iOS, Android.Open
- 4Files, Folders, and Digital OrganizationDrives, naming, extensions, filing systems.Open
- 5Typing, Keyboard Shortcuts, and Input MasterySpeed, accuracy, the shortcuts that save hours.Open
- 6Word Processing: Creating Professional DocumentsDocuments, resumes, formatting, PDF export.Open
- 7Spreadsheets: The Power Tool You Never Knew You NeededBudgets, formulas, SUM, AVERAGE, IF.Open
- 8Email: Professional Communication in the Digital AgeProfessional communication, etiquette, phishing.Open
- 9Web Browsing: Finding What You Need (and Avoiding What You Don’t)Search skills, source evaluation, CRAAP test.Open
- 10Online Safety and Cybersecurity EssentialsPasswords, 2FA, malware, identity theft.Open
- 11Social Media Literacy: Using Platforms Without Being UsedAlgorithms, privacy, professional networking.Open
- 12Cloud Computing: Your Files Everywhere, SafelyGoogle Drive, OneDrive, backup strategies.Open
- 13Smartphones and Tablets: The Computer in Your PocketApp management, mobile security, productivity.Open
- 14Digital Communication Beyond EmailZoom, Teams, Slack, video call etiquette.Open
- 15Introduction to Artificial IntelligenceMachine learning, LLMs, using AI productively.Open
- 16Digital Skills for the WorkplaceWhat employers actually mean by 'proficiency'.Open
- 17Online Learning: Education on Your Own TermsGSU, Khan Academy, building a learning plan.Open
- 18Digital Government and Online ServicesIRS, SSA, VA, healthcare portals, .gov safety.Open
- 19Troubleshooting: When Things Go WrongThe first 5 steps when things go wrong.Open
- 20Your Digital Future: A Lifelong Learning MindsetLifelong learning, staying current, paying it forward.Open
The Certificate of Comprehension
Sixty questions drawn from the book, graded on our server; you need 80% to pass. A pass prints a serial-numbered certificate with a link anyone can use to verify it. It records comprehension of the book. It is not a licence or a professional credential.
Sit the exam Open the class page