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Class Description

This class is an introduction to the Windows Operating System.

Class Outline 

Overview of the major components of Microsoft Windows:

• The desktop

• Icons

• The Start Menu

• The Taskbar

• Quick Launch Buttons

• The System Tray

How using the mouse controls what you can do in Windows

How to change your wallpaper or desktop background

How to add and edit interesting screensavers for your computer

Class Handout 

Overview of the Major Components of Microsoft Windows 

There are several important components of the Windows system that will be covered in this class.  All of them are vital in the quest to master the basics of computers and Microsoft Windows.  The instructor will demonstrate each component and then the class will have the opportunity to practice using each one themselves.

• Desktop:  It is everything you see on your computer screen when it finishes loading, including the five components in the diagram that are listed below.

• Icons:  These symbols on the desktop are shortcuts to your favorite computer programs; the class will learn about a few important icons (My Computer, My Documents, etc) as well as learn how to add, remove, rename and move icons around on the desktop.

• Start Menu:  Provides access to every program on your computer through a series of pop-up menus.  The Start Menu can be accessed by clicking on the Start Button at the bottom left corner of the computer screen.  The black markers to the right of some programs indicate that there are other programs that can be found related to the one that is highlighted.

• Taskbar:  The taskbar is the gray bar that runs across the bottom part of the computer screen.  Program tabs on the taskbar identify every program open on the computer.  Clicking on them enables you to switch from program to program and terminate those you are finished with.

• Quick Launch Buttons:  Buttons at the bottom left part of the taskbar that enable you to open your favorite programs with a single click.  These buttons can be edited so that your favorite programs can be accessed from the quick launch area.

• System Tray: Buttons on the right part of the taskbar that provide quick access to the date, time and volume controls of our computer.

How Using the Mouse Controls What You Can Do in Windows

Your computer mouse comes equipped with a left and right button.  The left button is a selection tool - when you use it, you select a file or program that you want to open on your computer.  The right button is a control tool - it also enables you to select items, but it also provides you with a control menu that gives you several options on what to do with the programs or files that you have selected.

The instructor will demonstrate the use of both the left and right mouse buttons and then the class will have ample opportunity to practice using both buttons.

How to Change Your Wallpaper or Desktop Background

Wallpaper is basically what you see on your computer desktop in the background, behind the icons.  It is usually a picture, and it can help to add a personal touch to your computer experience.  You can get to it by right-clicking on the desktop, access display properties, and then click on the desktop.  Once you are there, click on one of the headings listed under "Background."  Use the scrollbar to see all the pictures that you can use as your wallpaper.

How to Add and Edit Interesting Screensavers for Your Computer

A screensaver is a program that displays moving images on the monitor screen when the computer is not in use to prevent damage to the monitor.  There are a wide variety of fun screen savers that you can use.  Like the wallpaper, screensavers can be accessed by right clicking the desktop, selecting the display properties and then the screensaver option.  Select a screensaver by clicking on one in the pop-down menu below the word "screensaver."  Choose the amount of idle time you want before the screensaver will start in the "Wait" feature right below the list of screensavers.  You can also have fun by playing with many of the features of these screensavers.

Internet Links

Library Resources

Glossary of Computer Terms

For Additional Help

Ask a Reference Librarian

WRL computer volunteers: call 259-4050 for the latest volunteer schedule 

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