CCC

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The Computer Competency Certification is designed as an online certification that teaches and evaluates participants' understanding of computer structure, implementation, and culture. The information learned will give each participant a foundation for computing in their personal and professional lives.

Students who successfully pass the course will be issued a certification of completion by the IT Program at UMass Amherst.

CCC Modules

Module
Module 1 User Fundamentals

Provides foundational knowledge of operating systems, hardware, software, peripherals, file systems, networks, and the internet.
Module 2 Network Connection and Operating Systems

Guides the user through connecting to a network. Introduces users to a basic understanding of operating systems and their importance in computing. 
Module 3 Hardware Basics

Presents the basics of computer hardware to help make informed decisions about which components to choose when building or using a computer system.
Module 4 Internet and Security

Discusses how the internet has revolutionized the way we live, work, and communicate, including emergent challenges, such as the need for web security. 
Module 5 Word Processing

Provides the basic skills needed to create and edit documents in many different settings, both personal and professional. 
Module 6 Spreadsheets

Introduces spreadsheet skills essential for many situations calling for users to organize, calculate, and analyze data.
Module 7 Databases

Databases are essential for storing and organizing large amounts of data, and understanding how they work can help users make better use of information.
Module 8 Graphics

Gives students tools to create and use graphics effectively to help convey messages more clearly and persuasively.
Module 9 Presentations

Students learn the basics of how to design effective presentations and communicate their ideas clearly and persuasively.
Module 10 Mobile Devices

Presents the history and basic operations of mobile devices, covering their capabilities and social impact.
Module 11 Software and Code

Students will be introduced to the basic concepts related to software and code.
Module 12 Digital Living

Discusses the integration of technology into all aspects of daily life, where individuals use digital devices, applications, and services to communicate, work, learn, shop, entertain, and manage their personal lives.

Details

All software requirements are free and open source. Instructions/Lessons will be oriented for the use of the listed software and use may differ from other similar software applications.

On Spire, the course is UNIVERSTY 290C: Computer Competency Certification. On-Campus students should register for the "University" section of the course, and off-campus students should register for the "University+" section of the course.

Off-campus or unmatriculated students can view the course on the UWW website.

The course is 2 credits and also fulfills the foundation requirement of the IT Minor.

Questions? Contact itadvisor@umass.edu.