1. Internet Search - students need to know how
to do a proper internet search, using search terms and modifiers. This skill is
needed for school, work and life in general.
2. Office Suite Skills - students need to now
how to create, edit, and modify documents, presentations, and spreadsheets.
Businesses still use MS Office for the most part, but iWorks, OpenOffice /
LibreOffice, and Google Docs are
all getting more popular. They all work similarly so the learning curve when
switching isn't that big.
3. Self learning of tech and where to go for help -
knowing how to search a help menu on software or hardware, where to go to find
user forums for help, and where to find the manual for technology is a huge
skill that many do not know about.
4. Typing - yes, typing. I can get much more
work done since I know how to type, than people who don't. It's a skill that is
necessary for any kind of writing.
5. Social Media - how to properly use social
media for school and work, how to protect yourself on it, the issues of
cyberbullying, connecting with others in your profession (PLN).
6. Netiquette - Internet/Email/Social Media etiquette -
proper way to use the internet, write professional emails, use social media in
relation to your job (not complaining about the boss).
7. Security and Safety - antivirus, spam,
phishing, too much personal information sharing, stalkers, and more are all
issues they need to know about.
8. Hardware basics and troubleshooting - knowing
what different parts of technology are called, how to make minor fixes, and how
to do basic troubleshooting for WiFi, networks, OS won't load, etc.
9. Backup data - with all of the data that
students create for school and work, it is important to back it up and have
access to it at any time.
10. Finding apps and software - how to find,
evaluate, and use apps for school and business. Also, how to find quality, free
alternatives to paid software, apps and services.
11. Copyright and Citing Sources - students need
to understand copyright laws and rules, how to cite a resource, and how to
integrate someone else's work into their's properly.
