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    Computer Fundamentals Courses Online

    Study computer fundamentals for basic knowledge of computing. Learn about hardware, software, and basic troubleshooting techniques.

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    Explore the Computer Fundamentals Course Catalog

    • U

      University of Maryland, College Park

      Cybersecurity for Everyone

      Skills you'll gain: Cyber Risk, Cyber Security Policies, Security Management, Cybersecurity, Risk Management, Cyber Security Strategy, Cyber Attacks, Cyber Governance, Infrastructure Security, Telecommunications, Computer Security Awareness Training, Threat Detection, Enterprise Security, Security Awareness, General Networking, Data Security, Vulnerability, Public Safety and National Security, Governance, Political Sciences

      4.7
      Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
      ·
      3K reviews

      Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

    • Status: Free Trial
      Free Trial
      U

      University of Michigan

      Python Basics

      Skills you'll gain: Debugging, Programming Principles, Python Programming, Data Structures, Scripting Languages, Computer Programming, Development Environment, Computer Graphics

      4.8
      Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
      ·
      18K reviews

      Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

    • Status: Free Trial
      Free Trial
      V

      Vanderbilt University

      Introduction to Programming with MATLAB

      Skills you'll gain: Matlab, Computer Programming, Programming Principles, UI Components, Software Design, Debugging, Mathematical Software, Development Environment, Computer Science, File Management, Algorithms, Data Import/Export, Data Structures, Engineering Calculations, Plot (Graphics), Data Management

      4.8
      Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
      ·
      18K reviews

      Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

    • Status: Free Trial
      Free Trial
      U

      University of Michigan

      Using Databases with Python

      Skills you'll gain: Relational Databases, Database Design, SQL, Databases, Web Scraping, Data Modeling, Database Management, Data Visualization Software, Object-Relational Mapping, Object Oriented Programming (OOP), Data Processing, Python Programming, Application Programming Interface (API)

      4.8
      Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
      ·
      21K reviews

      Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

    • Status: Free Trial
      Free Trial
      D

      DeepLearning.AI

      Natural Language Processing

      Skills you'll gain: Natural Language Processing, Supervised Learning, Markov Model, Text Mining, Dimensionality Reduction, Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML), Artificial Neural Networks, PyTorch (Machine Learning Library), Deep Learning, Tensorflow, Machine Learning Methods, Data Processing, Feature Engineering, Machine Learning Algorithms, Artificial Intelligence, Algorithms, Keras (Neural Network Library), Linear Algebra, Data Cleansing, Probability & Statistics

      4.6
      Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
      ·
      6.1K reviews

      Intermediate · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

    • Status: Free Trial
      Free Trial
      U

      University of Virginia

      Agile Development

      Skills you'll gain: Usability Testing, Agile Product Development, Continuous Delivery, Agile Software Development, User Story, Agile Methodology, Product Testing, Agile Project Management, Team Performance Management, Team Management, Design Thinking, Team Building, Team Leadership, Product Improvement, DevOps, Customer Analysis, Analytics, Business Analytics, Sprint Retrospectives, Product Management

      4.7
      Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
      ·
      4.8K reviews

      Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

    • Status: Free Trial
      Free Trial
      C

      Columbia University

      Construction Management

      Skills you'll gain: Project Schedules, Construction Management, Construction Estimating, Project Finance, Cost Estimation, Punch Work, Project Risk Management, Bidding, Building Information Modeling, Scheduling, Cost Control, Environment Health And Safety, Project Closure, Lean Methodologies, Real Estate, Cash Flows, Construction, Business Transformation, Innovation, Architecture and Construction

      4.7
      Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
      ·
      9.3K reviews

      Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

    • Status: Free Trial
      Free Trial
      V

      Vanderbilt University

      Prompt Engineering for ChatGPT

      Skills you'll gain: Prompt Engineering, ChatGPT, Productivity, Generative AI, Artificial Intelligence, Large Language Modeling, Creative Thinking, Ingenuity, Brainstorming, Problem Solving, Application Development, Collaboration

      4.8
      Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
      ·
      6K reviews

      Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

    • A

      Amazon Web Services

      AWS Cloud Support Associate

      Skills you'll gain: AWS Identity and Access Management (IAM), Infrastructure as Code (IaC), Command-Line Interface, Amazon CloudWatch, AWS CloudFormation, Root Cause Analysis, Amazon DynamoDB, Customer Relationship Building, Network Troubleshooting, Amazon Web Services, Customer Relationship Management, Software Architecture, IT Automation, Linux Commands, Cloud Computing, Linux, Amazon S3, Scalability, Technical Support, Web Applications

      4.8
      Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
      ·
      6.4K reviews

      Beginner · Professional Certificate · 3 - 6 Months

    • Status: Free Trial
      Free Trial
      U

      University of California San Diego

      Algorithmic Toolbox

      Skills you'll gain: Algorithms, Program Development, Debugging, Development Testing, Test Engineering, Software Testing, Computational Thinking, Test Case, Computer Programming, Programming Principles, Data Structures, Theoretical Computer Science, Bioinformatics, Design Strategies

      4.6
      Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
      ·
      13K reviews

      Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months

    • S

      Stanford University

      Cryptography I

      Skills you'll gain: Cryptography, Data Encryption Standard, Encryption, Key Management, Advanced Encryption Standard (AES), Public Key Cryptography Standards (PKCS), Cybersecurity, Authentications, Data Integrity, Secure Coding, Algorithms

      4.8
      Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
      ·
      4.4K reviews

      Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months

    • Status: Free Trial
      Free Trial
      U

      University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

      Strategic Leadership and Management

      Skills you'll gain: Business Strategy, Organizational Change, Stakeholder Management, Organizational Structure, Corporate Strategy, Governance, Conflict Management, Organizational Strategy, Trustworthiness, Team Building, Strategic Leadership, Organizational Leadership, Business Management, Organizational Effectiveness, Business Ethics, Team Management, Team Motivation, Change Management, Decision Making, Leadership Development

      Build toward a degree

      4.8
      Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
      ·
      9.9K reviews

      Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

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    1…202122…518

    In summary, here are 10 of our most popular computer fundamentals courses

    • Cybersecurity for Everyone: University of Maryland, College Park
    • Python Basics: University of Michigan
    • Introduction to Programming with MATLAB: Vanderbilt University
    • Using Databases with Python: University of Michigan
    • Natural Language Processing: DeepLearning.AI
    • Agile Development: University of Virginia
    • Construction Management: Columbia University
    • Prompt Engineering for ChatGPT: Vanderbilt University
    • AWS Cloud Support Associate: Amazon Web Services
    • Algorithmic Toolbox: University of California San Diego

    Frequently Asked Questions about Computer Fundamentals

    Computer fundamentals refer to the basic principles, components, and operations of computer systems. It encompasses the foundational knowledge required to understand how computers work, their hardware and software components, and their role in various applications. Computer fundamentals cover topics such as computer architecture, operating systems, data representation, computer networks, and software development concepts.‎

    To gain proficiency in computer fundamentals, you need to develop the following skills:

    • Computer Literacy: Basic knowledge of how to operate a computer, use an operating system, and navigate file systems.
    • Hardware and Software Components: Understanding the different components of a computer system, such as the central processing unit (CPU), memory, storage devices, and input/output devices, as well as knowledge of software applications and operating systems.
    • Data Representation: Familiarity with binary, hexadecimal, and decimal number systems, and how data is represented and stored in computers.
    • Computer Architecture: Knowledge of computer organization, including the CPU, memory hierarchy, and input/output subsystems.
    • Operating Systems: Understanding the functions and features of operating systems, such as process management, memory management, file systems, and user interfaces.
    • Networking Basics: Basic understanding of computer networks, network protocols, and internet connectivity.
    • Software Development Concepts: Familiarity with programming languages, algorithms, data structures, and the software development life cycle.
    • Cybersecurity Awareness: Knowledge of basic cybersecurity principles, such as password security, safe internet browsing, and protecting against malware.
    • Troubleshooting: Skills in diagnosing and resolving common computer hardware and software issues.
    • Communication and Collaboration: Effective communication skills to work with others, seek help, and collaborate on computer-related tasks.‎

    Computer fundamentals skills are essential in various job roles, including:

    • IT Support Technician
    • Help Desk Analyst
    • Computer Operator
    • Technical Support Specialist
    • Data Entry Operator
    • Computer Lab Assistant
    • Administrative Assistant
    • Computer Trainer
    • Customer Service Representative (with technical focus)
    • Entry-level IT positions

    These roles involve providing support, troubleshooting, and basic maintenance of computer systems, assisting users with software and hardware issues, and performing routine computer operations.‎

    Computer fundamentals are well-suited for individuals who possess the following qualities:

    • Curiosity and Eagerness to Learn: Interest in understanding the foundations of computer systems and their operations.
    • Problem-Solving Orientation: Aptitude for identifying and resolving basic computer-related issues and troubleshooting common problems.
    • Attention to Detail: Meticulousness in following instructions and performing computer tasks accurately.
    • Patience and Customer Service Skills: Ability to assist users with varying levels of computer literacy and provide support in a patient and helpful manner.
    • Strong Work Ethic: Dedication, discipline, and a willingness to continuously learn and adapt to new technologies.
    • Communication Skills: Effective communication and interpersonal skills to interact with colleagues and users of varying technical backgrounds.
    • Teamwork: Capacity to work collaboratively in a team, seeking and providing assistance when required.‎

    Several topics are related to computer fundamentals that you can study to enhance your knowledge, including:

    • Introduction to Computers and Computing
    • Computer Hardware Basics
    • Operating Systems Fundamentals
    • Introduction to Programming Concepts
    • Data Representation and Number Systems
    • Computer Networks and Internet Basics
    • Introduction to Databases
    • Software Development Fundamentals
    • Cybersecurity Basics
    • Troubleshooting Computer Issues

    Exploring these topics through online courses, tutorials, and practical exercises will provide you with a solid foundation in computer fundamentals, enabling you to effectively use and navigate computer systems and pursue further studies or careers in the field of information technology.‎

    Online Computer Fundamentals courses offer a convenient and flexible way to enhance your knowledge or learn new Computer Fundamentals skills. Choose from a wide range of Computer Fundamentals courses offered by top universities and industry leaders tailored to various skill levels.‎

    When looking to enhance your workforce's skills in Computer Fundamentals, it's crucial to select a course that aligns with their current abilities and learning objectives. Our Skills Dashboard is an invaluable tool for identifying skill gaps and choosing the most appropriate course for effective upskilling. For a comprehensive understanding of how our courses can benefit your employees, explore the enterprise solutions we offer. Discover more about our tailored programs at Coursera for Business here.‎

    This FAQ content has been made available for informational purposes only. Learners are advised to conduct additional research to ensure that courses and other credentials pursued meet their personal, professional, and financial goals.

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