INTRO TO

COMPUTERS
& LINUX OS

Sources:
• CILC Training Manual used by the National Computer Institute.
• Computing for Life Book A by Tan. FNB Publications. 2005.
• Write-up for Edubuntu Linux 5.10 (1 CD). EasyLinuxCDs.com: Linux Training
Specialists.
http://www.easylinuxcds.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=1668
Environment: An Invitation to KDE.
http://kde.sw.com.sg/documentation/en/quickstart-2.html Accessed: April
2006
 iSchools Computer & Internet Literacy Course for Teachers
ICT Basics

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Concepts of Information and Communications Technology...........................................................3

DATA PROCESSING CONCEPTS................................................................................................3
Data Processing Methods............................................................................................................3
Data Processing Cycle.................................................................................................................4
....................................................................................................................................................4
Five Major Phases of Data Processing........................................................................................5
INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGY (ICT) .......................................5
what is a computer?.........................................................................................................................6
Capabilities of Computers...........................................................................................................7
Limitations of Computers...........................................................................................................7
Computer System Components...................................................................................................7
KEYBOARDING..........................................................................................................................11
Mouse operations..........................................................................................................................12
THE LINUX Operating system....................................................................................................13
Common Uses of Linux............................................................................................................13
Linux Distributions...................................................................................................................13
The Edubuntu Linux.....................................................................................................................14
Highlights of Edubuntu.............................................................................................................14
Getting Strated..........................................................................................................................15
Launching an Application.........................................................................................................16
Parts of a Window.........................................................................................................................17
Working with Application and Document Windows.................................................................20
Configuring your Desktop.............................................................................................................21
Changing the Desktop Background..........................................................................................21
Setting-up a Screensaver...........................................................................................................22
FILE MANAGEMENT................................................................................................................23
Managing your Files and Directories .......................................................................................23
Identifying Files and Directories...............................................................................................23
Viewing Contents of Drives or Directories...............................................................................23
Housekeeping Chores................................................................................................................24
Terminating a Linux Session.........................................................................................................25

Commission on Information and Communications Technology – Human Capital Development

Group
Page 2 of 26
 iSchools Computer & Internet Literacy Course for Teachers
ICT Basics

CONCEPTS OF INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGY

Data is defined as a collection of independent raw facts, collection of
numbers, letters, symbols and any combination of these that provide the
necessary requirements of a system to achieve a result. Data also refers to
facts and figures, relating to events that take place.
Information is data that is made meaningful based on the needs of the
user through manipulation. It refers to facts or knowledge acquired in any
manner (in computer lingo, information means processed data).
A computer can only process data and create new data. The data have to be
interpreted to yield useful, relevant, and timely information.

DATA PROCESSING CONCEPTS

Data Processing may be described as a series of activities responsible for
transforming data into information. Data Processing is not a new concept
and it has been performed in some way since men have been able to
communicate with each other, communication being a form of processing
data as data and information goes one person to the other.

Data Processing Methods

Throughout the centuries the changing nature and the sheer volume of data
coupled with advancements in technology resulted in a gradual evolution of
data processing methods. Regardless, however, of manner of processing
data, the objectives of data processing as well as data processing model are
still the same.
1. Manual Data Processing: use of human labor with the aid of pencils,
pens, rulers, work sheets, or similar devices or implements; slow and
relatively inaccurate and could not support the rapidly expanding
information requirements
2. Mechanical Data Processing: use of machines or devices that alter,
transmit and direct applied forces (e.g. mechanical calculator, manual
typewriters, manual cash registers); offers greater computational speed,
accuracy and legibility but requires higher processing volume to justify
investment costs
3. Electromechanical Data Processing: use of mechanical devices with
electric motors to carry out any operation, like multiplication and division,
at the press of a button; use of printers for permanent record of
calculations
4. Electronic Data Processing: movement of electrical impulses that
passes through electronic devices to process data, rather than by the
movements of mechanical parts; superior capacity to perform
computations and other functions at incredible speeds

Commission on Information and Communications Technology – Human Capital Development

Group
Page 3 of 26
 iSchools Computer & Internet Literacy Course for Teachers
ICT Basics

Data Processing Cycle

SOURCE INPUT PROCESS OUTPUT USER

DATA INFO

FEEDBACK/CONTROL

Commission on Information and Communications Technology – Human Capital Development

Group
Page 4 of 26
 iSchools Computer & Internet Literacy Course for Teachers
ICT Basics

Five Major Phases of Data Processing

1. ORIGINATION – the initial capture, filling in, and recording of raw data on
some forms or source documents as transactions occur; might be
handwritten, typewritten or prepared in a variety of other ways (e.g.
employee attendance data for the computation of earnings could be
handwritten, stamped by a bundy clock, or punched on the time card).
2. INPUT PREPARATION – source documents are collected and converted
into a form acceptable for digital processing; concerned with the accuracy
and completeness of data to ensure data integrity; includes
editing/sorting, coding, verifying data
3. PROCESSING – actual operations performed on the input data to convert
it into information; includes classifying into categories/fields, sorting into
a predetermined sequence, calculating through formulas, summarizing
4. OUTPUT PREPARATION – preparation of processed information in a
format acceptable to the user for analysis or as input for a second cycle
(e.g. reports, communication signal/document)
5. STORAGE AND FEEDBACK – the storage function is the retention of the
results of processed data for future use or retrieval; the feedback function
compares the output(s) and the goal set in advance; any discrepancy is
analyzed, corrected and fed back to the proper stage in the cycle

INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGY (ICT)

ICT is the convergence of:
1. Information Technology (IT), the totality of means employed to
systematically collect, process, store, present, and share information, in
support of human intellectual activities; encompasses the use of
computers, data communications, office systems technologies, as well as
any technology that deals with modern day application of computing
and/or communication.
2. Communications Technology makes it possible to transmit information
using a network that brings down critical and timely information to
decision makers and end-users at the touch of the button.
• Common Types of network
1. Local Area Network (LAN) –from one workstation to another
within the office building, campus or site
2. Wide Area Network (WAN) – from one locality to another within
the country.
• Topology refers to the way in which the network of computers is
connected. The choice of topology is dependent upon the type and
number of equipment being used, planned applications and rate of
data transfers, required response times, and the cost.

Commission on Information and Communications Technology – Human Capital Development

Group
Page 5 of 26
 iSchools Computer & Internet Literacy Course for Teachers
ICT Basics

WHAT IS A COMPUTER?
Simply put, a computer is a digital electronic device that
processes data through a series of instructions/commands
(program code) into information for reproduction and storage.
It can perform mathematical and logical operations, store
data and instructions, and process large volumes of data at
high speed.
The modern computers are getting smaller, more efficient,
require less electric power, cheaper, and much easier to
operate.

Commission on Information and Communications Technology – Human Capital Development

Group
Page 6 of 26
 iSchools Computer & Internet Literacy Course for Teachers
ICT Basics

Capabilities of Computers
1. performs arithmetic and logical operations
2. stores a great amount and variety of information and retrieve/recall the
information needed almost instantly
3. handles large volumes of repetitive tasks accurately over long periods of
time
4. communicates with its operators and other machines in the form of
printed output or messages sent on the screen
5. capable of remote processing where communication is established
between the terminal, which is composed of screen display and keyboard,
and the computer simply by entering instructions in a local terminal (e.g.
ATMs).

Limitations of Computers
1. subject to human direction and control;
function only when input data and the
necessary instructions to process the
information have been provided
 GIGO or garbage-in-garbage-out
2. detect but generally cannot correct an inaccurate entry on their own
3. subject to occasional breakdown or computer malfunctions because of
power failures, computer failures, humidity, temperature, maintenance,
time, etc. List of equipment you
should be familiar with for
Computer System Components classroom use:
1. DATAWARE: the systematic and organized • Computer
collection of data and procedures relevant to • Server
the organization • Printer
• Scanner
2. HARDWARE: physical components of a • Photocopier
computer, e.g., the monitor, central processing • LCD/DLP Projector
unit, keyboard, printer • Overhead Projector
• AVR / UPS
Functional Parts:
• DVD/CD Writer
• Optional: Digital Camera,
Video Camera, Opaque

Commission on Information and Communications Technology – Human Capital Development

Group
Page 7 of 26
 iSchools Computer & Internet Literacy Course for Teachers
ICT Basics

 Data Preparation Devices – transfer data from source document to

an input medium which an input device can read (e.g. digital data
forms, test instruments)
 Input Devices - allow the user to communicate with the computer by
“reading” programs and data then converts these to electronic pulses
that computers can understand (e.g. light pen, bar code reader,
keyboard, card readers, console typewriters, paper tape readers,
scanner, microphone, and mouse)
 Output Devices – allow the computer to communicate with the user
by transforming the results of the computer processing (electrical
impulses) into human-readable form (e.g. monitors, printers, plotters
(for large printing) voice synthesizers, speakers, terminals)
 Central Processing Unit (CPU) – encased in the System Case,
serves as the heart or the brain of the computer that handles entire
operation of the system; has three units:
a. Primary Memory or Main Storage - holds instructions, data, and
intermediate and final results during processing
b. Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU) – performs calculations as directed
by the program; enables the CPU to make certain logical decisions
and comparisons.
c. Control Unit - directs the sequence of operations by electrical
signals and governs the actions of the various units, which make up
the computer; receives instructions from software or computer
programs and executes these instructions
 Storage Devices – serves as the storage area of data and
information; has two types:
a. Primary Memory or Main Storage: accepts program statements;
data from an input device that transfers information to an output
device; includes:

image from http://www.pcguide.com/intro/over.htm

Commission on Information and Communications Technology – Human Capital Development
Group
Page 8 of 26
 iSchools Computer & Internet Literacy Course for Teachers
ICT Basics

 ROM (Read-Only-Memory) - Information can be read but

cannot be written; information is permanent and placed by the
manufacturer.
 RAM (Random Access-Memory) - Temporary storage of data
or information; when the computer is turned off, all the
information will be erased.
TIPS:
b. Secondary Storage: used to • Inserting & Removing
store programs and data not Diskettes/ USB portable
currently used by the computer; drives: Do not remove your
data and information stored in diskette while the in-use light is.
the secondary memory are It means that your system is still
accessing information from your
retained even after the diskette in the drive.
computer is turned off.
• Write-protecting Diskette
Examples: hard disk, floppy disk, (using the write-protect tab):
diskettes, CD, flash drive/ thumb If a diskette is write-protected,
disk, microfilms, drums, information can be read but you
magnetic strips/tapes, punched cannot edit or save information to
the diskette.
cards

Image from http://www.pcguide.com/ref/case/parts.htm

Commission on Information and Communications Technology – Human Capital Development

Group
Page 9 of 26
 iSchools Computer & Internet Literacy Course for Teachers
ICT Basics

3. SOFTWARE: serves as the intermediary between computer users and

the computer hardware; the intangible part of the computer system
that consists of step-by-step instructions, routines and programs,
procedures and specialized aids (e.g. compilers and library routines)
that make the hardware components perform their functions
Software Categories
1. Application Software - programs designed to perform specific
data processing tasks for a particular application; oriented toward
the solution of a specific problem than to a general class of
problems
a. Word Processors
b. Electronic Spreadsheet
c. Database Management System
d. Multimedia, Desktop, and Image Editing Software
e. Entertainment Software (games, media players, media
authoring/editing, etc.)
f. Anti-Virus Utilities
g. Engineering/Architectural Tools
h. Network and Communications Software
2. Systems Software – designed to control and support the internal
environment of the computer to act as a go-between for hardware
and application software; includes control programs that operate
the input and output equipment, utility programs, and programs
(compilers) for conversion to machine language
a. Language Processors/ Translators - includes compilers
b. Utility Programs - “housekeeping” programs
c. Operating System - a collection of programs that sets the
platform or environment to allow a computer system to function
and manage its own operations; allocates computer resources
among multiple users, keeps track of all information required for
job accounting purpose, and establishes job priorities
4. PEOPLEWARE: refers to the personnel who manage and use the
computer system, who design the applications and systems software,
who write and encode the programs, who run the hardware, etc.
• Administration
• Project Manager
• Systems Analyst/Designer
• Network Engineer
• Network Administrator
• Database Administrator
Commission on Information and Communications Technology – Human Capital Development
Group
Page 10 of 26
 iSchools Computer & Internet Literacy Course for Teachers
ICT Basics

• Computer Engineer
• Computer Programmer
• Computer Operator/ User/ Data Encoder

PROPER HANDLING OF A PC: refer to slide presentation on this;

reference: Tan, Computing for Life Book A. FNB Publications, 2005
KEYBOARDING
(from www.grassrootsdesign.com/intro/input.php)

• Enter or Return: moves the text insertion point or cursor to the next
line and to the leftmost margin; also used to select an option
• Delete: erases the character to the right of the cursor and all
highlighted or selected text
• Backspace: erases the character to the left of the cursor and all
highlighted text
• Space Bar: moves the cursor one space at a time to the right
• Arrow keys: moves the cursor around the document without editing text
• Shift key: pressed down to type the upper character on keys that has
dual functions
• Caps Lock: locks the keyboard so that only capital letters are typed
• Tab: moves the cursor five spaces to the right (number of characters is
adjustable) or next field in a form or a table; note: Shift+Tab to go to the
previous field
• Esc: cancels the current/active command or dialog box
• Function or F keys: used to access specially programmed commands
(e.g. F1 for Help)
• Command keys: used in combination with other keys to function
 Ctrl key: used to access specific commands (e.g. Ctrl+Z = undo)
 Alt key: used to access menus (e.g. Alt+F = File)
 Shift key: when used in combination with arrow keys and home/end
key, used to navigate through text and objects faster
•

Commission on Information and Communications Technology – Human Capital Development

Group
Page 11 of 26
 iSchools Computer & Internet Literacy Course for Teachers
ICT Basics

MOUSE OPERATIONS
A mouse is a handheld pointing device for computers. It is fitted with one or
more buttons and shaped to sit naturally under the hand, used to select and
move objects on the screen.
It is called a mouse primarily because the cord on early models resembled
the rodent's tail, and also because the motion of the pointer on the screen
can be mouse-like.

TERMS MEANING
Point To move the mouse until the mouse pointer on the screen
rests on the object you choose.
Click To quickly press and release the mouse button.
Double-click To click the mouse button twice in rapid succession.
Drag To hold down the mouse button while you move the mouse.
Point and Pointing to an object or icon and selecting it by clicking.
Click
Double-click To start an application or select an option.
Click and To select an object and drag the mouse pointer across the
Drag screen, to highlight an area/range or to drop the selected
object in another area
Drag and To move an icon and placing it to its destination
Drop

Commission on Information and Communications Technology – Human Capital Development

Group
Page 12 of 26
 iSchools Computer & Internet Literacy Course for Teachers
ICT Basics

THE LINUX OPERATING SYSTEM

First developed by Linus Benedict Torvalds in 1991 in support of

efforts to promote free development for free operating systems
(and eventually further improved collaboratively by open source
advocates), Linux is an operating system that is used today to
run a variety of applications on a variety of different
hardware. It is a multitasking and a multi-user operating
system that has the ability to manage thousands of tasks at
the same time, including allowing multiple users to access
the system simultaneously. It can accommodate several
users logged in at the same time. They may be logged in
on different computers, connecting to a Linux box via a local
area network (LAN) or even a dial-up connection, or a single
user may have logged in as a different user on each of the
virtual terminals on a Linux box. Whatever the case may
be, Linux can handle these multiple users with the sufficient
and appropriate configuration. Aside from that, each of these users may be
running more than one process on their login session. A user may have
three browsers, a CD player, and a shell session running card and still, Linux
can handle them smoothly.

Common Uses of Linux

An important feature of Linux is its versatility due to its customizable
features and services that meet the needs of differing companies in a
variety of situations. These services can be used on the local computer
workstation, or they can be configured to allow other computers to connect
to it across a network. Although thousands of different server and
workstation services are available that you can use to customize Linux,
some configurations of Linux that are commonly used today include the
following: Internet servers, File and print servers, Application servers,
Supercomputers, Scientific workstation, and Office workstation.

Linux Distributions
Some of the more popular ones include Red Hat Linux, Linux Mandrake, Suse
Linux, Debian GNU/Linux and Ubuntu Linux. There are still many others
and no one distribution can be said to be better than the other. It’s all a
matter of personal preference. Below is a list of the common Linux
distributions:
Distros Features
Red Hat Linux The most common Linux distribution used today;
two distributions of Red Hat are available: the
Enterprise distribution and the Fedora distribution.
Fedora Core Red Hat-sponsored project with the goal of working with the Linux
community to build a complete, general purpose operating
system exclusively from free software

Commission on Information and Communications Technology – Human Capital Development

Group
Page 13 of 26
 iSchools Computer & Internet Literacy Course for Teachers
ICT Basics

Distros Features
SuSE Linux The most common Linux distributions in Europe and the
second most common Linux distribution is North
America.
Ubuntu Linux The most common Linux distributions in Africa
based on the Debian
Debian Linux A distribution that offers the largest number of packages of all
Linux.
Mandrake A user-oriented distribution very similar to Red Hat with
Linux enhancements for ease of use.
Bayanihan Philippines’ own distribution; developed by DOST-ASTI
Linux
THE EDUBUNTU LINUX
Edubuntu is a complete Linux-based operating system, freely available with
community-based support.
The Edubuntu Manifesto states that software should be available free of
charge, that software tools should be usable by people in their local
language and despite any disabilities, and that people should have the
freedom to customize and alter their software in whatever way they see fit.
These freedoms make Edubuntu fundamentally different from traditional
proprietary software: not only are the tools you need available free of
charge, you have the right to modify your software until it works the way you
want it to.
Edubuntu is suitable for both desktop and server use. Edubuntu includes
more than 16,000 pieces of software, but the core installation fits on a single
CD. Edubuntu supports a graphical user interface (GUI) and covers every
standard desktop application from word processing and spreadsheet
applications, graphics and video software, educational software (such as
GCompris and the KDE edutainment suite) to Internet access applications,
web server software, email software, programming languages and tools and
of course, several games – all for free!

Highlights of Edubuntu
On the Desktop
• A set of selected educational apps containing
 most of the KDE Edutainment Suite: a collection of fun educational
software (for Science, Math, language)
 Gcomprise: huge collection of activities for the kindergarten
 Tux4Kids: includes TuxPaint, TuxMaths and TuxTyping
 Schooltool
 OpenOffice Suite: Writer, Calc, Impress, Base, Math
 Scribus desktop publishing: alternative to Pagemaker
 Blender 3D modelling

Commission on Information and Communications Technology – Human Capital Development

Group
Page 14 of 26
 iSchools Computer & Internet Literacy Course for Teachers
ICT Basics

 Dia diagram editing

 and lots more ...
• Fresh, colourful artwork for the desktop
• Full ltsp client functionality by default

Getting Strated
The GNOME is the GNU Graphical Desktop, the default desktop environment
on Ubuntu, as well as Edubuntu. It provides you with file managers, network
browsers, menus, and system tools. GNOME also provides an application
framework, and many of the applications available in Edubuntu has been
created using the GNOME framework.
• Starting the System
1. Starting a session on your system is the first step in doing work on
your system. Turn on the computer and each attached device (e.g.
printer and monitor).
2. Log in to the system to begin a session. A login (also log in, log on,
sign on) is the process of accessing a computer system by identifying
yourself in order to obtain security credentials to permit access
through a username and a password.

Date/Time
Panel

Icon

Work Area

Taskbar Trash

Running Virtual
Applications Desktop

• Desktop: where icons or symbolic representations of frequently used

files and folders may be placed. Edubuntu’s GNOME provides multiple
desktops, each of which has its own windows. When you start Edubuntu
for the first time, note the four buttons on the lower right of the desktop,
these represent your four desktops. Just click one of them. Don’t worry;
Commission on Information and Communications Technology – Human Capital Development
Group
Page 15 of 26
 iSchools Computer & Internet Literacy Course for Teachers
ICT Basics

though they have “disappeared”, any open windows are still active (just
take a look at the task list!). Instead of placing one window over another,
as you would when using Windows or OS/2, you can organize your
windows using this feature.
• Panel: located at the top of the screen, used to start applications and
administer your system; contains the pulldown menus for Applications,
Places, System, and other icons which help you start an application when
clicked (e.g. Mozilla Firefox, Mail and Help)
• Taskbar: located at the bottom of the Desktop, used to switch between
and manage currently running applications. Another section of the
taskbar shows corresponding buttons for each open window: just click on
the button corresponding to the windows you want to open. Another click
will minimize the window. A right mouse button click will give you a
context or shortcut menu allowing you to move the window to another
desktop, manipulate its size, or close the application.
• Mouse Pointer: often in the form of an arrow, represents the
movement of the mouse or any pointing device on the screen;
used to point to selected areas, icons, applications, text, objects,
etc.

Launching an Application
1. Recall that the Desktop Panel is used to launch applications. Position
your mouse pointer on that area of the desktop.
2. Click the Application Starter. To launch an application: Select the
application from the pulldown menu or submenu that appears in each
application category

Commission on Information and Communications Technology – Human Capital Development

Group
Page 16 of 26
 iSchools Computer & Internet Literacy Course for Teachers
ICT Basics

Minimize, Maximize/ Restore,

Title Bar Close Buttons

Menu Bar

Toolbar

Work Scroll Bars

Area

Status
Bar
Borders

PARTS OF A WINDOW
People normally work inside windows to create documents, manipulate text
and graphics/objects, play games, etc., but sometimes you may want to
manipulate windows. Here’s a quick overview of some of the most common
window-related functions:
• Title Bar: shows the name of the application or document. If more than
one window is open, the title bar for the active window has a different
color intensity compared to the title bars of inactive windows. A window
in the foreground is called the Active window (currently “editable”
window) while a window in the background is called an Inactive window.
You may also click and drag the Title Bar to move that speicific window.
1. Minimize button: reduces the window to a button on the task bar;
window is still open, just inactive
2. Maximize button: to make your window occupy the entire desktop.
3. Restore button: To bring back the size of the window to its previous
size (click the Restore button if the window is maximized or click the
window button from the taskbar if the window is minimized)
4. Close button: to close the current window or exit the application.
• Menu Bar: A menu contains a list of commands, or actions you can carry
out in the particular application. Most applications have a File menu, an
Edit menu, and a Help menu.
1. Select a menu from the menu bar.

Commission on Information and Communications Technology – Human Capital Development

Group
Page 17 of 26
 iSchools Computer & Internet Literacy Course for Teachers
ICT Basics

2. Choose a command from the pulldown or submenu that appears. The

computer does one of two things:
 It carries the action immediately.
 It displays a dialog box (if the command ends in ellipsis or three
periods) for you to specify details or information on the command
you selected. You might need to select certain options, type some
text, or specify something before the selected command can be
executed (when you press OK). For example, Save As… will ask
you for the drive and folder to save in, filename, and file type. You
may choose to cancel the command by selecting the cancel button
in the dialog box.
3. To close the menu without selecting a command: click anywhere
outside the drop down menu.
• Context Menu: a context-sensitive or “shortcut” menu shown upon
right-clicking that shows choices that are applicable to the item you
clicked
• Toolbar: a row, column, or block of onscreen buttons or icons that, when
clicked, activate certain functions of the program – serving as shortcuts to
commands. Some toolbars are customizable, letting you add and delete
buttons as required. Most toolbar buttons show pictures only, while
some have a text explanations too called tool tips when pointed at.
• Status Bar: A horizontal line of information displayed at the bottom of an
application window that reports information about the current state of the
program or the data contents in the window. For example, the status bar
in Writer shows the page number, number of pages, Insert or Overwrite
option, etc.
• Scroll Bar: A horizontal or vertical bar that contains a box that looks like
an elevator in a shaft. The bar is clicked to scroll the screen in the
corresponding direction, or the box (elevator, thumb) is clicked and then
dragged to the desired direction to see or view contents of a certain
document when the entire document doesn’t fit in the window or work
area.
Two types of Scroll Bars:
1. Horizontal Scroll Bar: located at the bottom of a window or application.
2. Vertical Scroll Bar: located at the right side of a window or application.
 To scroll one line up or down: click the up or down scroll arrow
 To scroll one screen at a time: click the scroll bar above or below
the scroll box on the vertical scroll bar and to the left or right of the
scroll box on the horizontal scroll bar.
• Window Borders/Corners: the four (4) borders or four (4) corners of a
window could be used to resize it
 To resize a window using the borders: drag the window’s border, or
hold the Alt key down and drag with the right mouse button
anywhere in the window.
Commission on Information and Communications Technology – Human Capital Development
Group
Page 18 of 26
 iSchools Computer & Internet Literacy Course for Teachers
ICT Basics

 To resize a window using the corners: point to any corner of the

window and drag it to the size you want. Notice that the two
adjacent boarders are resized. Release the mouse when you’ve
reached the window size you want.
• Arrows or Pointers
Below are pointers you will encounter in GNOME:
 Mouse pointer (Normal Arrow): used to point or to select a
command or objects
 Resizing Arrow: arrow with border bar (or two-headed arrow) that
appears at the window borders to resize a window
 Insertion Arrow/Cursor: the I-beam that is commonly seen when you
are working on a document, showing the exact location/position
where you can type or insert text or graphic

Commission on Information and Communications Technology – Human Capital Development

Group
Page 19 of 26
 iSchools Computer & Internet Literacy Course for Teachers
ICT Basics

Working with Application and Document Windows

1. Opening a window
• Double-click any icon from the Desktop or choose the application from
the Applications menu in the Panel.
2. Moving a window to a different location
a. Drag the Title bar of the window to the new location. As you move the
mouse pointer, an outline of the window moves with it.
b. Release the mouse button.
c. To cancel the move, press ESC before releasing the mouse.
3. Resizing a window
Use the Resizing Arrow to resize a window to the desired size. The
minimum size for all windows is about 2 inches by 1 inch. Some windows
cannot be resized like the dialogue boxes.
4. Switching Between Windows
Now that we know how to deal
with windows, open some other
windows to find out how to
switch between different
windows.
Many window systems require
you to click the mouse in
another window to begin using
it. This is GNOME’s default
behavior, termed
“ClickToFocus” focus policy.
Other methods to switch
between windows:
a.Pick up a window from the window list menu. To open the menu, click
the middle mouse-button on an empty area of the desktop, or click the
icon with several windows on the panel. Hold down the Alt key and press
Tab (Alt+Tab) to cycle through the windows.
b.Using the Taskbar - The taskbar displays a number of buttons, one for
each window on the desktop. The taskbar is very powerful: A simple click
with the left mouse button on the appropriate taskbar button will bring
you to the selected application immediately. The right mouse button may
be used to pop up a context menu, with window operations for the
selected window.
c.Using Virtual Desktops - It may happen that you have more windows
open than space on your desktop. In this case, you have three
possibilities:
i. Leave all windows open (cluttered desktop)

Commission on Information and Communications Technology – Human Capital Development

Group
Page 20 of 26
 iSchools Computer & Internet Literacy Course for Teachers
ICT Basics

ii. Iconify those windows which you do not need at present and use
the taskbar or Alt+Tab to switch between them (still a bit confusing
and much work)
Recommended: Use virtual desktops (buttons located at the bottom
right of the desktop) - GNOME can handle several different desktops,
each with its own windows. The default configuration provides four
desktops. You can switch between the virtual desktops easily with a
click on one of the desktop buttons on the panel or Ctrl+Tab to cycle
through the desktops.

CONFIGURING YOUR DESKTOP

If you do not like something about
the way the desktop looks or
operates, you can change it. You
use the Preferences option to
configure your desktop. You may
set User Image, Desktop Theme,
Background, Screensaver, etc.
based on your own liking.

Changing the Desktop

Background
GNOME allows you to choose what
image or pattern you have as your
desktop's background. Follow the
procedures below to set your favorite picture or pattern as your background:
1. From the Panel, choose System >
Preferences.
2. Click on the Desktop Background command
and the Desktop Background dialogue box
will appear.
3. You can add or remove wallpapers or choose
the wallpaper you want (see the section on
File Management to find out how to access
or retrieve picture files).
4. Check the Fill Screen button to configure the
wallpaper on the desktop.
5. You can also choose the Desktop color by
clicking the Desktop Colors button.
6. Click the Close button if you are done setting up the Desktop Background.

Commission on Information and Communications Technology – Human Capital Development

Group
Page 21 of 26
 iSchools Computer & Internet Literacy Course for Teachers
ICT Basics

Setting-up a Screensaver
A screensaver is a moving pattern
or bitmap that appears on your
monitor after you have not used
your computer for a specified
amount to time. Screensavers can
reduce the wear of your screen and
provide security for your system.
You can select and customize a
screensaver to appear on your
screen while the system is running.
A. Selecting a Screensaver
1. From the Panel, choose the
System menu.
2. Select Preferences and click Screensaver.
3. The Screensaver dialog box will appear.
4. Select a screensaver from the list.
5. To configure the selected Screensaver, click the Settings button and a
Dialog box will appear.
B. Testing a Screensaver
From the Screensaver dialog box, choose Preview and the selected
Screensaver will appear.
C. Stopping a Screensaver
To return to the application window (i.e. your returning to your “work”)
when the Screensaver is on your screen, move the mouse or click any key
from the keyboard to re-activate the monitor.

GETTING HELP
The Help feature is available basically
everywhere:
 On the desktop, just use the right mouse
button and choose Help On Desktop.
 On the panel, click the Question mark
button.
All help is HTML–based, so using the help
system is as easy as using your favorite web
browser.
Experiment! Get HELP! This is the best way to get comfortable with using
the computer and its various applications.

Commission on Information and Communications Technology – Human Capital Development

Group
Page 22 of 26
 iSchools Computer & Internet Literacy Course for Teachers
ICT Basics

FILE MANAGEMENT

Managing your Files and

Directories
The File Browser is a powerful tool
that can help manage/organize your
files and directories like moving,
copying, starting an application, and
many others. To start the File
Browser application, click on
Computer from the Places menu on
the Panel.

Identifying Files and Directories

In general, all the work done in a
computer gets stored as units called
files.
• Word processed files are called documents (*.odt, *.doc, *.txt, *.rtf)
• Picture files are called images (*.jpg, *.gif, *.png)
• Matrix files are called spreadsheets (*.ods, *.xls)
• Slide files are called presentations (*.odp, *.ppt)

The document's filename is the name that the file will go by once it is
stored in a folder / directory in the computer's memory. It needs to be
something which allows the user to easily identify its contents, and that
distinguishes it appropriately from other files. Folders or directories, on the
other hand, allows a group of files to be “housed” together systematically
under personally determined categories.

A common metaphor of graphical desktops is the use of folders to represent

directories on your hard disk. Folders contain files and other folders.
(Review the folder & file tree structure discussed in class. Remember the
family tree or school filing cabinet analogy.)

You can use File Browser to work with files and directories individually or in
groups. An icon attached to each filename or directory name in the
Contents list helps you identify its type.

Viewing Contents of Drives or Directories

You can display the contents of a different directory by changing directories
or drives.
A. Viewing Folders or Directories:
You can display the content of a folder/directory available on your system
by clicking the specific icon or name from the left pane of File Browser.
1. Click a folder/directory on the left pane and the content of the
resource will be displayed on the right half of the File Browser.

Commission on Information and Communications Technology – Human Capital Development

Group
Page 23 of 26
 iSchools Computer & Internet Literacy Course for Teachers
ICT Basics

2. To change the folder or directory being viewed, double-click on the

Folder or Directory you want to view.
B. Displaying Subfolders or Subdirectories:
If the folder or directory you want is not displayed, expand that particular
folder or directory by clicking the + sign or arrow beside the
folder/directory.
1. Click the folder or directory whose contents you want to view.
Continue clicking relevant subfolders until you reach the desired
directory (review: path in the folder & file tree structure).
2. To go back, click the Back button from the Toolbar.

Housekeeping Chores
A. Creating Directories
1. From the Panel, click the Places menu.
2. Choose the Computer command from the Menu and the Computer
File Browser dialogue box will appear.
3. Choose the destination of the folder/directory – that is, make sure to
create the directory in the parent directory to generate the intended
path.
4. Right click on the right pane and choose Create Folder.
5. Type the folder/directory name – make it descriptive enough for your
purposes.
B. Copying Files or Directories
All operating systems include file copying in the user interface. Operating
Systems with GUIs usually provide copy-and-paste or drag-and-drop
methods of file copying. File Browsers, too, provide an easy way of
copying files.
1. From the File Browser, choose the file or folder/directory you want to
copy.
2. Right click the file or folder/directory and choose the Copy command
(or go to the Edit menu, then select Copy).
3. Select the destination parent directory you want to copy the file or
folder/directory to.
4. Right-click the selected destination and choose the Paste command (or
go to the Edit menu, then select Paste).
C. Moving Files or Directories
1. From the File Browser, choose the file or folder/directory you want to
move.
2. Right click the file or folder/directory and click the Cut command.
3. Select the destination parent directory you want to move the file or
folder/directory to.
4. Right-click the selected destination and choose the Paste command.
Commission on Information and Communications Technology – Human Capital Development
Group
Page 24 of 26
 iSchools Computer & Internet Literacy Course for Teachers
ICT Basics

D. Renaming Files or Directories

1. From the File Browser, choose the file or folder/directory you want to
rename.
2. Right click the file or folder/directory and click the Rename command.
3. Type the new filename / folder name and then press the Enter key.
E. Deleting Files or Directories
File deletion, or removing a file from a computer's file system, is done for
the following reasons:
 freeing the disk space
 removing duplicate or unnecessary data to avoid confusion
 making sensitive information unavailable to others
All operating systems include commands for deleting files. File Browser
also provides a convenient way for deleting files or directories. Files or
folders/directories may be deleted one-by-one or a whole directory tree
may be deleted (just be cautious about doing so).
To delete a file or folder/directory:
1. From the File Browser, choose the file or folder/directory you want to
delete.
2. Press the Delete button from the keyboard.

The common problem with deleting files or folders/directories is

accidental removal of information that later proves to be important. One
way to deal with this is to backup your files regularly. Erroneously deleted
files may then be found in archives.
Another strategy is not to delete files instantly, but to move them to a
temporary place where they are kept until one is really low on free space.
This is how the "trash" in Linux works (“Recycle Bin” in Microsoft
terminology).
Another precautionary measure is to mark important files as read-only.
Many operating systems will warn you if you are trying to delete such
files. Where file system permissions exist, "ordinary" users are only able
to delete their own files, preventing the erasure of other people’s work or
critical system files.

TERMINATING A LINUX SESSION

Logging out may be done explicitly by the user performing some action:
entering the appropriate command or just simply clicking a command. It
can also be done implicitly: by powering the machine off – it is not advisable,
though, to just shut off a computer without going through the proper
procedures.
To log out refers to the process of ceasing
use of a computer system by removing the
Commission on Information and Communications Technology – Human Capital Development
Group
Page 25 of 26
 iSchools Computer & Internet Literacy Course for Teachers
ICT Basics

user credentials. It is the opposite of logging in. It is an important security

practice to always log out when you leave the computer to prevent anybody
else to tamper with your files and settings.
1. From the Panel, choose System.
2. Click Quit and a dialog box will appear.
3. Choose an option below on how you want your system to behave:
 Logout – does not turn off the power but assumes that another
user may log on
 Shutdown – computer goes through the proper shut down
procedures and turns off the power
 Restart the computer – reboots the computer
 Hibernate the computer – stands by but does not turn off the
computer’s power

Commission on Information and Communications Technology – Human Capital Development

Group
Page 26 of 26