Information Technologies on Library

2014

CONTENTS

Chapter 1. Introduction to Computers

Chapter 2. Internet

Chapter 3. WebPage & JavaScritpt

Chapter 4. Social Media

Chapter 5. Information Searching

Chapter 6. Integrated Library Management Systems

Chapter 7. Acquisitions

Chapter 8. Cataloging &

Chapter 9. Circulation

Chapter 10. Serials

Chapter 11.The Online Public Access Catalog

Chapter 12. Resource Sharing

Chapter 13. Future Directions

Chapter 1. Introduction to Computers

[1] What is a Computer?

A computer is an electronic device that manipulates information, or "data." It has the ability to store, retrieve, and process data. You can use a computer to type documents, send email, and browse the internet. You can also use it to handle spreadsheets, accounting, database management, presentations, games, and more.

Computers Simplified

For beginning computer users, the computer aisles at an electronics store can be quite a mystery, not to mention overwhelming. However, computers really aren't that mysterious. All types of computers consist of two basic parts:

> Hardware is any part of your computer that has a physical structure, such as the computer monitor or keyboard.

> Software is any set of instructions that tells the hardware what to do. It is what guides the hardware and tells it how to accomplish each task. Some examples of software are web browsers, games, and word processors such as Microsoft Word.

The first electronic computer, the Electronic Numerical Integrator and Computer (ENIAC), was developed in 1946. It took up 1,800 square feet and weighed 30 tons

What are the Different Types of Computers?

When most people hear the word "computer" they think of a personal computer such as a desktop or laptop computer. However, computers come in many shapes and sizes, and they perform many different functions in our daily lives. When you withdraw cash from an ATM, scan groceries at the store, or use a calculator, you're using a type of computer.

> Desktop Computers

Many people use desktop computers at work, home, school, or the library. They can be small, medium, or large in style, and usually sit on a desk. Once you add a monitor, mouse, and a keyboard, you have what is typically known as a desktop computer.

Most desktop computers are easy to upgrade and expand, or add new parts. Another benefit of desktop computers is the cost. If you compare a desktop and a laptop with the same features, you will most likely find that the desktop computer is priced lower.

Some desktop computers have a built-in monitor to save space. These are often called all-in-one desktop computers.

>Laptop Computers

The second type of computer that you may be familiar with is a laptop computer, or laptops as they are often referred to. Laptops are battery or AC-powered personal computers that are more portable than desktop computers, allowing you to use them almost anywhere.

Since a laptop is smaller than a desktop, it's more difficult to access the internal components. That means you may not be able to upgrade them as much as a desktop. However, it's usually possible to add more RAM or a bigger hard drive.

A laptop computer is sometimes called a notebook computer because of its size.

>Servers

A server is a computer that "serves up" information to other computers on a network. Many businesses have file servers that employees can use to store and share files. A server can look like a regular desktop computer, or it can be much larger.

Servers also play an important role in making the internet work: they are where web pages are stored. When you use your browser to click a link, a web server delivers the page you requested.

>Other Types of Computers

Today, there lots of everyday devices that are basically specialized computers, even though we don't always think of them as computers. Here are a few common examples:

>>Tablet Computers: These use a touch-sensitive screen for typing and navigation. Since they don't require a keyboard or mouse, tablet computers are even more portable than laptops. The iPad is an example of a tablet computer.

>>Mobile Phones: Many mobile phones can do a lot of things a computer can do, such as browsing the internet or playing games. These phones are often called smartphones.

>>Game Consoles: A game console is a specialized kind of computer that is used for

playing video games. Although they are not as fully-featured as a desktop computer, many newer consoles, such as the Nintendo Wii, allow you to do non-gaming tasks like browsing the internet.

>>TVs: Many TVs now include applications (or apps) that let you access various types of online content. For example, you can view your Facebook news feed or watch streaming movies on Netflix.

PCs and Macs

Personal computers come in two main "styles": PC and Mac. Both styles are fully functional, but they do have a different look and feel, and many people prefer one or the other.

>PC: This type of computer began with the original IBM PC that was introduced in 1981. Other companies began to create similar computers, which were called IBM PC Compatible (often shortened to PC). Today, this is the most common type of personal computer, and it typically includes the Microsoft Windows operating system.

>Mac: The Macintosh computer was introduced in 1984, and it was the first widely sold personal computer with a Graphical User Interface, or GUI (pronounced gooey). All Macs are made by one company, Apple Inc., and they almost always use the Mac OS X operating system.

Although PC can refer to an IBM PC Compatible, the term can also be used to refer to any personal computer, including Macs.

>>>Challenge!

1. Think about the activities you perform or want to perform using a computer (email,

online shopping, etc.).

2. Think about all the computers that are necessary for you to complete your dayto-

day activities.

2-1. Is it a computer that controls the stoplights so you can drive to work?

2-2 How did the cashier scan and calculate your grocery items?

2-3 Does the coffee store you visit use a computer to order their inventory?

2-4 Is the weather map on television computer-generated?

[2] What is an Operating System?

An operating system is the most important software that runs on a computer. It manages the computer's memory, processes, and all of its software and hardware. It also allows you to communicate with the computer without knowing how to speak the computer's language." Without an operating system, a computer is useless.

The Operating System's Job

You've probably heard the phrase boot your computer, but do you know what that means? Booting is the process that occurs when you press the power button to turn your computer on. During this process (which may take a minute or two), the computer does several things:

> It runs tests to make sure everything is working correctly.

> It checks for new hardware.

> It then starts up the operating system.

Once the operating system has started up, it manages all of the software and hardware on the computer. Most of the time, there are many different programs running at the same time, and they all need to access your computer's Central Processing Unit (CPU), memory, and storage. The operating system coordinates all of this to make sure that each program gets what it needs. Without the operating system, the software wouldn't even be able to talk to the hardware, and the computer would be useless.

Types of Operating Systems

Operating systems usually come preloaded on any computer that you buy. Most people use the operating system that comes with their computer, but it is possible to upgrade or even change operating systems.

The three most common operating systems for personal computers are Microsoft Windows, Apple Mac OS X, and Linux.

Modern operating systems use a Graphical User Interface, or GUI (pronounced "gooey"). A GUI lets you use your mouse to click on icons, buttons, and menus, and everything is clearly displayed on the screen using a combination of graphics and text.

Each operating system's GUI has a different look and feel, so if you switch to a different operating system it may seem unfamiliar at first. However, modern operating systems are designed to be easy to use, and most of the basic principles are the same.

Before GUIs, computers had a command-line interface, which meant the user had to type every single command to the computer, and the computer would only display text.

>Microsoft Windows

Microsoft created the Windows operating system in the mid-1980s. Over the years, there have been many different versions of Windows, but the most recent ones are Windows 8 (released in 2012), Windows 7 (2009), and Windows Vista (2007). Windows comes preloaded on most new PCs, which helps to make it the most popular operating system in the world.

If you're buying a new computer or upgrading to a newer version of Windows, you can choose from several different editions of Windows, such as Home Premium, Professional, and Ultimate. You may need to do some research to decide which edition is right for you.

>Apple Mac OS X

Mac OS is a line of operating systems created by Apple Inc. It comes preloaded on all new Macintosh computers, or Macs. All of the recent versions are known as Mac OS X (pronounced Mac O-S Ten), and their specific version names are Mountain Lion (released in 2012), Lion (2011), and Snow Leopard (2009). Apple also offers a version called Mac OS X Server, which is designed to be run on servers.

According to StatCounter Global Stats, Mac OS X users account for 7.5% of the operating systems market as of January 2013 - much lower than the percentage of Windows users (over 90%). One reason for this is that Apple computers tend to be more expensive. However, many people prefer the look and feel of Mac OS X.

>Linux

Linux (pronounce LINN-ux) is a family of open source operating systems, which means that they can be modified and distributed by anyone around the world. This is very different from proprietary software like Windows, which can only be modified by the company that owns it (Microsoft). The advantages of Linux are that it is free, and there are many different distributions (or versions) that you can choose from. Each distribution has a different look and feel, and the most popular ones include Ubuntu, Mint, and Fedora.

Linux is named after Linus Torvalds, who created the Linux kernel in 1991. The kernel is the computer code that is the central part of an operating system.

According to StatCounter Global Stats, Linux users account for less than 1% of the operating systems market as of January 2013. However, most servers run Linux because it's relatively easy to customize.

>Operating Systems for Mobile Devices

The operating systems that we've been talking about were designed to run on desktop or laptop computers. Mobile devices such as phones, tablet computers, and mp3 players are very different from desktop and laptop computers, so they run operating systems that are designed specifically for mobile devices. Examples of mobile operating systems include Apple iOS, Windows Phone, and Google Android.

Operating Systems for mobile devices generally aren't as fully-featured as those made for desktop or laptop computers, and they aren't able to run all of the same software. However, you can still do a lot of things with them, such as watching movies, browsing the internet, managing your calendar, playing games, and more.

>>>Challenge!

l. What is an operating system? Is it software?

2. Do you know what operating system your computer uses? If not, find out.

3. Visit the Microsoft and Apple websites to learn more about each operating system.

4. Search the internet for articles that compare Windows and Mac OS X.

5. Visit the Ubuntu, Mint, and Fedora websites to learn more about each Linux

distribution.

6. If you have a PC and currently use an older version of Windows, such as Windows XP,

search for articles comparing Windows 8 with Windows XP. You may want to read our

lesson on Upgrading to Windows 8 to help you decide if you should upgrade.

[3] What is an application?

You may have heard people talking about using an application or an app. But what exactly does that mean? An application (or app) is a type of software that allows you to perform specific tasks. Applications for desktop or laptop computers are sometimes called

desktop applications, and those for mobile devices are called mobile apps. When you open an application, it runs inside the operating system until you close it. Much of the time, you will have more than one application open at the same time, and this is known as multitasking.

App is a very common term for an application, especially for simple applications that can be downloaded cheaply or even for free. Many apps are also available for mobile devices and even some TVs.

Types of Desktop Applications

There are countless desktop applications out there, and they fall into many different categories. Some are more full-featured (like Microsoft Word), while others may only do one or two things (like gadgets). Below are just a few types of applications that you might use:

>Word Processors:

A word processor allows you to write a letter, design a flyer, and create many other kinds of documents. The most well-known word processor is Microsoft Word.

>Personal Finance:

Personal finance software, such as Quicken, allows you to keep track of your income and expenses, create a budget, and more. Most personal finance programs can automatically download information from your bank, so you don't have to manually type in all of your transactions.

>Web Browsers:

A web browser is the tool that you use to access the World Wide Web. Most computers come with a web browser pre-installed, but you can also download a different one if you prefer. Examples of browsers include Internet Explorer, Firefox, Google Chrome, and Safari.

>Games:

There are many different games that you can play on your computer. They range from card games such as Solitaire, to action games like Halo 2. Many action games require a lot of computing power, so they may not work unless you have a newer computer.

>Media Players:

If you want to listen to mp3s or watch movies that you've downloaded, you'll need to use a media player. Windows Media Player and iTunes are popular media players.

>Gadgets:

Sometimes called widgets, these are simple applications that you can place on your desktop (or on the Dashboard if you're using a Mac). There are many different types of gadgets, and they include calendars, calculators, maps, news headlines, and more.

Installing Desktop Applications

In order to work, an application usually has to be installed on your computer. typically, installation is as simple as inserting the installation disc and following the instructions on the screen. For software that is downloaded from the internet, you can usually double-click it after it is finished downloading, and then follow the instructions on the screen. Many applications include a readme file (for example, readme.txt), which includes installation instructions and other information.

>>Use caution when downloading software, as it can contain viruses or other malware. If you have an antivirus program, you should scan the downloaded software before installing it.

Opening Files with Applications

Many applications are designed to open one or more types of files (or file formats). For example, Microsoft Word can create and edit Word documents. If you don't have the right kind of application, you won't be able to open a file. For example, if you are taking our Access 2010 tutorial, you will need to have Microsoft Access in order to open the sample database.

There are two main ways to open a file:

1. Find the file on your computer, and double-click it. This will open the file using the

default program.

2. Open the application, then use the application to open the file. Once the application is

open, you can go to the File menu at the top of the screen and select Open. This is

useful because some files can be opened by several different applications, and this

method allows you to choose which application to use.

If you're not sure what a file's format is, you can look at the extension at the end of the file name (for example .docx, .txt, or .jpg). On some computers, the extension may be hidden, and you may need to look at the icon to determine the file format.

Mobile Apps

Desktop and laptop computers aren't the only devices that can run apps. You can

also download apps for mobile devices like smartphones and tablet computers,

which opens up a lot of new possibilities. Here are a few examples of mobile apps:

>RedLaser: You can use RedLaser to compare prices while shopping. You

simply scan an item's barcode using your phone's built-in camera, and the app

searches the web for the best price.

>Word Lens: Word Lens is a language translator app. Like RedLaser, it uses

your phone's camera to take a picture of a sign, menu, or other text that you

want to translate, and then it displays the translation for you.

>Foursquare: If you're going out to a restaurant, bar, or mall, you can "check in"

with Foursquare to find nearby friends and also let your friends know where

you are. Foursquare can also show you a list of nearby businesses (using your

phone's built-in GPS), which can help you discover places that you've never

been to before.

Compared to traditional applications, mobile apps are relatively cheap. Many of

them cost as little as 99 cents, and others are free. If your mobile device has an

internet connection, you can download apps directly onto the mobile device.

Otherwise, you can download them to your computer and then transfer them over.

>>>Challenge!

1. What are some examples of applications you have on your computer? Did you

have to install them, or did they come pre-installed on your computer?

2. Try double-clicking some files on your computer. Which applications open up?

3. What are some examples of mobile apps?

4. If you have a mobile device, research some of the apps available for Apple iOS

or Android.

[4] What is the Cloud?

You may have heard people using terms like the cloud, cloud computing, or cloud storage. But what exactly is the cloud?

Basically, the cloud is the internet - more specifically, it's all of the things that you can access remotely over the internet. When something is in the cloud, that means it is stored on servers on the internet, instead of on your computer. It lets you access your calendar, email, files and more, from any computer that has an internet connection.

If you've ever used web-based email, then you've used the cloud - all of the emails in your Inbox are stored on servers. However, there are many other services that use the cloud in different ways. Here are just a few examples:

>Dropbox is a cloud storage service that lets you easily store and share files with other

people, and it lets you access your files from a mobile device as well.

>Evernote lets you type notes, clip web pages, take photos, and organize all of them from

your computer or mobile device.

>Mozy and Carbonite can automatically back up your data in case your computer is lost,

stolen, or damaged.

Why Use the Cloud?

There are many reasons to use the cloud, but the main reasons are convenience and reliability. In the past, if you wanted to bring a file with you, you would have to save it to a USB flash drive, external hard drive, or CD-R disc. Saving a file to the cloud ensures that you'll be able to access it with any computer that has an internet connection, so you don't have any physical media to keep track of. The cloud also makes it much easier to share a file with coworkers or friends, making it possible to collaborate over the internet.

With the cloud, you're much less likely to lose your data, since it is stored on servers. However, just like anything online, there is always a risk that someone may try to gain access to your personal data, so it's important to choose a strong password and pay attention to any privacy settings for the service you're using.

What is a Web App?

Previously, we talked about how desktop applications allow you to perform tasks on your computer. However, there are also web applications (or web apps), which run in the cloud and do not need to be installed on your computer. These are sometimes called cloud apps.

Examples of Web Apps

Here are a few examples of web apps:

>Online Email Services:

Services like Gmail and Yahoo! Mail run within your browser and can do many of the same things that email programs like Microsoft Outlook can do. After you sign up for an online email service, you can begin using it immediately - no installation is required. Instead of being stored on your computer, your emails are

stored in the cloud.

>Google Docs:

Google Docs is an office suite that runs within your browser. Much like Microsoft Office, you can use it to create documents, spreadsheets, presentations, and more. Your documents are stored in the cloud, which makes it easy to share your documents with other people.

>Facebook:

Facebook lets you create an online profile and interact with your friends. Profiles and conversations are constantly evolving, so Facebook uses web app technologies throughout

the site to keep the information up-to-date. There are also games and other web apps that you can add to your Facebook profile.

Web apps are becoming more and more integrated with websites, and it may be hard to distinguish between a web application and a "regular" website. In many cases, you may be using a web application without even knowing it!

How Do Web Apps Work?

When you use a web app, you are working from your computer or mobile device, but much of the actual processing is done by a network of servers. These servers can pool all of their processing power in order to handle requests from all over the world. They also use specialized servers to store the data that you're working with, as well as the data from all of the other users. All of this happens very seamlessly, so it looks almost like

the application is running on your computer.

For example, if you open a document with Google Docs, your web browser will communicate with the network of servers to display your document. As you edit the document, your browser will work closely with the servers to make sure everything is kept up-to-date.

>>>Challenge!

1. Do you already use the cloud for things like web-based email?

2. What are some other ways you could use the cloud?

3. How is a web app different from a desktop application?

[5] Basic Parts of a Desktop Computer

The basic parts of a desktop computer are the computer case, monitor, keyboard, mouse, and power cord. Each part plays an important role whenever you use a computer.

Computer Case

The computer case is the metal and plastic box that contains the main components of the computer. It houses the motherboard, central processing unit (CPU), the power supply, and more. Computer cases come in different shapes and sizes. A desktop case lies flat on a desk, and the monitor usually sits on top of it. A tower case is tall and sits next to the monitor or on the floor. The front of the case usually has an on/off switch and one or more optical drives.

Most of the personal computers you can purchase today include tower cases, rather than desktop cases; however, some computers are being made with all of the internal components built into the monitor, which completely eliminates the tower.

Monitor

The monitor works with a video card, located inside the computer case, to display images and text on the screen. Newer monitors usually have LCD (liquid crystal display) or LED (light-emitting diode) displays. These can be made very thin, and they are often called flat panel displays. Older monitors use CRT (cathode ray tube) displays. CRT monitors are much bigger and heavier, and they take up more desk space.

Most monitors have control buttons that allow you to change your monitor's display settings, and some monitors also have built-in speakers. LED displays are actually LCD displays that are backlit with light-emitting diodes. This allows for greater contrast than a traditional LCD display.

Power Cord

The power cord is the link between the power outlet and the power supply unit in the computer casing. If the power cord is not plugged in, the computer will not power on. To protect your computer from voltage spikes, you can plug the power cord into a surge protector. You can also use an Uninterruptable Power Supply (UPS), which acts as a surge protector and also provides temporary power if there is a blackout.

Keyboard

The keyboard is one of the primary ways we communicate with the computer and enter data. There are many different types of computer keyboards such as wired, wireless, ergonomic, multimedia, and more. Although there may be differences in the location of some keys or features, keyboards are very similar and allow you to accomplish basically the same tasks.

Mouse

The mouse is a peripheral that is known as a pointing device. It lets you point to objects on the screen, click on them, and move them.

There are two main types of mice: optical and mechanical. The optical mouse uses an electronic eye to detect movement and is easier to clean. The mechanical mouse uses a rolling ball to detect movement. Generally, a mechanical mouse is cheaper, although it may require regular cleaning to keep it working properly.

Traditionally, a mouse connects to the computer using a USB or PS/2 connection. However, you can also buy a wireless mouse, which can reduce clutter on your desktop

Mouse Alternatives

There are other devices that can do the same thing a mouse can do, but with a different look and feel. Many people find them to be easier to use, and they also require less desk space than a mouse. The most common mouse alternatives include:

>Trackball:

A trackball has a ball on top that can rotate freely. Instead of moving the device like a mouse, you can simply roll the ball with your fingers to move the pointer. Some mobile devices have miniature trackballs that can be controlled with your thumb.

>Touchpad:

A touchpad (also called a trackpad) is a touchsensitive pad that lets you control the pointer by making a "drawing" motion with your finger. Touchpads are very common on laptop computers.

>>>Challenge!

l Think about the desktop computers you've seen at work, school, the library, a store, or

a friend's house. What did they look like? Were they all-in-one, or did they have a

separate tower?

2. Review the Parts of the Keyboard interactive on page 3 of this lesson. Are there any

keys that you haven't used before?

3. If you're using a mouse, flip it over to see whether it's optical or mechanical.

4. Is your monitor LCD, LED, or CRT?

5. If your monitor has control buttons, try adjusting the brightness and contrast.

[6] Buttons, Sockets and Slots on a Desktop Computer

Take a look at the front and back of your computer case and count the number of buttons, sockets, and slots you see. Now, look at your monitor and count any that appear there. You probably counted at least 20.

Each computer is different, so the buttons, slots, and sockets will vary from computer to computer. However, there are certain features you can expect to find on most desktop computers. Being familiar with the names of each and how they are commonly used will help you later on when you connect that new printer, mouse, digital camera, or other device.

Front of Computer Case

<Optical Disc Drive>

<Power Button>

<Audio In/Out>

<USB(Universal Serial Bus> Port

Back of Computer Case

On the back of the computer case are connection ports that are made to fit specific devices. The arrangement of these vary from computer to computer, and many companies have their own special connectors for the specific devices. Some of the ports may be color coded to match a color on the device, which will help you determine which port is used with a particular device.

<Power Socket>

<Audio In/Out Port>

<Ethernet Port>

<USB Port>

<Serial Port>

<Monitor Port>

<PS/2>: Mouse(green) & Keyboard(purple)

<Expansion Slots>

<Parallel Port>

Other Types of Ports

There are many other types of ports that computers can have. For example, some Macs have a FireWire port, which is similar to USB. There are also newer ports such as Thunderbolt, which can transmit data at very high speeds, making them ideal for use with high-resolution monitors and external hard drives. If your computer has ports that you don't recognize, consult your manual for more information.

Peripherals You Can Use with Your Computer

The most basic computer setup usually includes the computer case, monitor, keyboard, and mouse, but you can plug many different types of devices into the extra ports on your computer. These devices are called peripherals.

Below are a few examples of peripherals.

>Printers: A printer is used to print documents, photos, or anything else that appears on your screen. There are many types of printers available, including inkjet, laser, and photo printers. You can also buy an all-in-one printer, scanner, and copier.

>Scanners: A scanner allows you to copy an image or document and save it to your computer as a digital (computer-readable) image. Many scanners are included as part of an all-in-one printer/scanner/copier, although you can also buy a separate flatbed or hand-held scanner.

>Speakers/Headphones: Speakers and headphones are output devices, which means that they are devices that communicate information from the computer to the user. They allow you to hear sound and music. Depending on the model, they may connect to the audio port or the USB port. Some monitors also have built-in speakers.

>Microphones: A microphone is a type of input device, or a device that receives information from a user. You can connect the microphone to the computer and use the computer to record sound or to communicate with another computer user over the internet. Many computers come with built-in microphones.

>Web Cameras: A web camera, or webcam, is a type of input device that can record videos or take pictures. It can also transmit video over the internet in real time, allowing you to do video chat or video conferencing with somebody in a different part of the world. Webcams are used often in business, and they also help many friends and families stay connected.

>Joystick or Game Controller: A joystick is a lever that is used to control computer games. There are various other types of controllers that you can use, and you can also use your mouse and keyboard to control most games.

>Digital Cameras: A digital camera lets you capture a picture or video in digital form. By connecting the camera to your computer's USB port, you can transfer the images from the camera to the computer. You can then print the images, email them to a friend, or post them on the web.

>Mobile Phones, MP3 Players, Tablet Computers and Other Devices:

When you buy an electronic device such as a mobile phone or mp3 player, check to see if it comes with a USB cable. If it does, that means you can connect it to your computer. With many devices, you can synchronize (or sync) them with your computer, which automatically keeps your contacts, music, and other data up-to-date whenever you connect the device to your computer.

>>>Challenge

1. Find out what types of drives are on your computer (e.g, CD-ROM, DVD-ROM)

2. Count the number of USB ports on your computer.

3. What are some of the peripherals that you can use with your computer?

4. Does your mobile phone include an adapter cable that connects to your computer?

[7] Inside a Desktop Computer

Have you ever looked inside a computer case before, or seen pictures of the inside of one? The small parts may look complicated, but the inside of a computer case really isn't all that mysterious. This lesson will help you master some of the basic terminology and understand a little about what goes on inside the computer casing.

A Look Inside a Desktop Computer

Let's explore the inside of a computer tower.

CPU/Processor

The Central Processing Unit (CPU), also called a processor, is located inside the computer case on the motherboard. It is sometimes called the brain of the computer, and its job is to carry out commands. Whenever you press a key, click the mouse, or start an application, you're sending instructions to the CPU.

The CPU is generally a 2-inch ceramic square with a silicon chip located inside. The chip is usually about the size of a thumbnail. The CPU fits into the motherboard's CPU socket, which is covered by the heat sink, an object that absorbs heat from the CPU.

A processor's speed is measured in megahertz (MHz), or millions of instructions per second, and gigahertz (GHz), or billions of instructions per second. A faster processor can execute instructions more quickly. However, the actual speed of the computer depends on the speed of many different components - not just the processor. There are many processor manufacturers for personal computers, but the most well-known ones are Intel and AMD.

Motherboard

The motherboard is the computer's main circuit board. It's a thin plate that holds the CPU, memory, connectors for the hard drive and optical drives, expansion cards to control the video and audio, as well as connections to your computer's ports (such as the USB ports). The motherboard connects directly or indirectly to every part of the computer.

Power Supply Unit

The power supply unit in a computer converts the power from the wall outlet to the type of power needed by the computer. It sends power through the cables to the motherboard and other components. If you decide to open the computer case and take a look, make sure to unplug the computer first. Before touching the inside of the computer, you should touch a grounded metal object (or a metal part of the computer casing) to discharge any static buildup. Static electricity can be transmitted through the computer circuits and ruin them.

RAM (Random Access Memory)

RAM is your system's short-term memory. Whenever your computer performs calculations, it temporarily stores the data in the RAM until it is needed. This short-term memory disappears when the computer is turned off. If you're working on a document, spreadsheet, or other type of file, you'll need to save it to avoid losing it. When you save a file, the data is written to the hard drive, which acts as long-term storage.

RAM is measured in megabytes (MB) or gigabytes (GB). The more RAM you have, the more things your computer can do at the same time. If you don't have enough RAM, you

may notice that your computer is sluggish when you have several programs open. Because of this, many people add extra RAM to their computers to improve performance.

A bit is the smallest unit of data in computer processing. A byte is a group of eight bits. A megabyte contains about one million bytes, and a gigabyte is about one billion bytes.

Hard Drive

The hard drive is the data center of the computer. This is where the software is installed, and it's also where your documents and other files are stored. The hard drive is long-term storage, which means the data is still saved even if you turn the computer off or unplug it.

When you run a program or open a file, the computer copies some of the data from the hard drive onto the RAM so that it can access the data more easily. When you save a file, the data is copied back to the hard drive. The faster the hard drive is, the faster your computer can start up and load programs.

Most hard drives are hard disk drives, which store data on a magnetic platter. Some computers now use solid-state drives

(also called flash hard drives). These are faster and more durable than hard disk drives, but they are also more expensive. A USB flash drive is basically a small, removable flash hard drive that plugs into a USB port. These are a convenient way to bring your files with you and open them on a different computer. If you're using Windows, you can view information about your computer's RAM and processor speed without opening up your computer. Just go to the Control Panel (in the Start menu) and click System and Security. In Mac OS X, you can view this information by clicking the Apple icon and selecting About This Mac.

Expansion Cards

Most computers have expansion slots on the motherboard that allow you to add various types of expansion cards. These are sometimes called PCI (Peripheral Component Interconnect) cards. You may never have to add any PCI cards, as most motherboards have built-in video, sound, network, and other capabilities. However, if you want to boost the performance of your computer or update the capabilities of an older computer, you can always add one or more cards. Below are some of the most common types of expansion cards:

Video card

The video card is responsible for what you see on the monitor. Most computers have a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) built into the motherboard, instead of having a separate video card. If you like playing graphics-intense games on the computer, you can add a faster video card to one of the expansion slots to get better performance.

Sound Card

The sound card, also called an audio card, is responsible for what you hear in the speakers or headphones. Most motherboards have integrated sound, but you can upgrade to a dedicated sound card for higher quality sound.

Network Card

The network card allows your computer to communicate over a network and access the internet. It can either connect with an Ethernet cable or through a wireless connection (often called Wi-Fi). Many motherboards have built-in network connections, and a network card can also be added to an expansion slot.

Bluetooth Card

Bluetooth is a technology for wireless communication over short distances. It's often used in computers to communicate with wireless keyboards, mice, and printers. It's often built into the motherboard or included in a wireless network card. For computers that don't have Bluetooth, a USB adapter (called a dongle) can be purchased.

>>>Challenge

l. Review the parts of the computer identified in this lesson. Make sure you know

the function of each part.

2. Which parts provide short-term and long-term memory for your computer?

3. Think Creatively! In the videos, we compared the CPU to a brain, the hard drive

to a closet, and the motherboard to a blueprint. Can you think of any other good

analogies, or comparisons? Do any of the computer parts listed remind you of

anything else?

4. Find out what your processor speed is. Is it measured in gigahertz or megahertz? How

much RAM does your computer have?

[8] Laptop Computers and Netbooks

What is a Laptop Computer?

A laptop is a battery or AC-powered personal computer that can be easily carried and used in a variety of locations. Many laptops are designed to have all of the functionality of a desktop computer, which means they can generally run the same software and open

the same types of files. However, some laptops, such as netbooks, sacrifice some functionality in order to be even more portable.

How is a Laptop Different From a Desktop?

Since laptops are designed for portability, there are some important differences from desktop computers. A laptop has an all-in-one design, with a built-in monitor, keyboard, touchpad (which replaces the mouse), and speakers. That means it is fully functional even when there are no peripherals attached to it. A laptop is quicker to set up, and there are fewer cables to get in the way. You also have the option of connecting a regular mouse, a larger monitor, and other peripherals. This basically turns your laptop into a desktop computer, with one main difference: You can easily disconnect the peripherals and take the laptop with you wherever you go.

Here are the main differences that you can expect with a laptop:

>Touchpad: A touchpad (also called a trackpad) is a touch-sensitive pad that lets you control the pointer by making a "drawing" motion with your finger. Many touchpads now include multi-touch gestures, which allow you to perform specific tasks by making gestures with more than one finger. For example, a pinch gesture is often used to zoom in or out.

>Battery: Every laptop has a battery which allows you to use the laptop when it's not plugged in. Whenever you plug the laptop in, the battery recharges. Another benefit of having a battery is that it can provide backup power to the laptop if the power goes out.

>AC Adapter: A laptop usually has a specialized power cable called an AC adapter, which is designed to be used with that particular kind of laptop. Some of these cables use magnetic MagSafe connectors that will safely pull out if someone trips over the power cable. This helps to prevent damage to the cable and the laptop.

>Ports: Most laptops have the same types of ports that desktop computers have (such as USB), although they usually have fewer ports to save space. However, some ports may be different, and you may need an adapter in order to use them. For example, the monitor port is often a Mini DisplayPort, which is a smaller version of the normal DisplayPort. Since some ports have a similar appearance, you may need to consult your manual to determine what types of ports your laptop has.

What is a Netbook?

A netbook is a type of laptop that is designed to be even more portable. Netbooks are often cheaper than laptops or desktops. They are generally less powerful than other types of computers, but they provide enough power for email and internet access, which is where the name "netbook" comes from. In order to save space, netbooks generally have smaller screens and keyboards. Many netbooks also lack certain hardware such as optical drives. However, there are many different models available, and in some cases there isn't much difference between a large netbook and a "regular" laptop. Since netbooks are less powerful, they sometimes use a more simplified operating system. Many new netbooks use Windows 7 Starter, but some use simplified versions of Linux.

>>>Challenge!

l. If you've used a laptop computer before, think about some of the ways it was different

from a desktop computer. Was it easier or more difficult to use?

2. What are some of the advantages of using a laptop or netbook? Are there any

disadvantages?

3. If you are thinking about buying a laptop, think about how you would use it. Are there

any parks, coffee shops, or bookstores where you could use your laptop?

4. Would a laptop, netbook, or tablet computer work best for you?

[9] Getting to Know Mobile Devices

What is a Mobile Device?

A mobile device is basically any handheld computer. It is designed to be extremely portable, often fitting in the palm of your hand or in your pocket. Some mobile devices are more powerful, and they allow you to do many of the same things you can do with a desktop or laptop computer. These include tablet computers, e-readers, and smartphones.

Tablet Computers

Like laptops, tablet computers are designed to be portable. However, they provide a very different computing experience. The most obvious difference is that tablet computers don't have keyboards or touchpads. Instead, the entire screen is touch-sensitive, allowing you to type on a virtual keyboard and use your finger as a mouse pointer.

Tablet computers are mostly designed for consuming media, and they are optimized for tasks like web browsing, watching videos, reading e-books, and playing games. For many people, a "regular" computer like a desktop or laptop is still needed in order to use some programs. However, the convenience of a tablet computer means that it may be ideal as a second computer. Below are some of the main features that you can expect with a tablet computer:

>Mobile OS: Different types of tablets use different operating systems. Examples include Android and iOS. You'll usually be able to download free updates to your OS as they become available.

>Solid-State Drives: Tablet computers usually use solid-state drives, which allow the computer to boot up and open programs more quickly. They are also more durable than hard disk drives.

>Wi-Fi and 3G/4G: Since they are optimized for internet use, tablet computers have built-in Wi-Fi. For a monthly fee, you can also purchase a 3G or 4G data plan, allowing you to access the internet from almost anywhere.

>Bluetooth: In order to save space, tablet computers have very few ports. If you want to use an external keyboard or other peripherals, they will often use a wireless Bluetooth connection.

E-Book Readers

E-book readers (also called e-readers) are similar to tablet computers, except they are mainly designed for reading e-books (digital, downloadable books). Examples include the Amazon Kindle and the Barnes & Noble Nook.

E-book readers have either an e-paper display or an LCD display:

>E-Paper: Short for electronic paper, this type of display can usually only display black and white. It is designed to look a lot like an actual page in a book. Unlike an LCD display, it is not backlit, so the text stays readable even outdoors in full sun. Many people consider epaper to be more pleasant to read, as it causes less eye strain. However, it generally can't be used for videos or other applications because the refresh rate is too low.

>LCD: This is the same type of screen found on tablet computers and laptops. It's more versatile than e-paper, but it's often more difficult to view in bright sunlight, as the image becomes washed out. Since an LCD screen can display colors, this type of e-reader is better for viewing magazines or books with photos. Many LCD ereaders (such as the Nook Color) are basically tablet computers, as they can do many different tasks in addition to displaying e-books. You don't need an e-reader in order to read an e-book. E-books can usually be read on tablet computers, smartphones, laptops, and desktops

Smartphones

A smartphone is a powerful mobile phone that is designed to run a variety of applications in addition to phone service. They are basically small tablet computers, and they can be used for web browsing, watching videos, reading e-books, playing games and more. Smartphones use touchscreens and operating systems similar to those used by tablet computers. Many of them use a virtual keyboard, but others (such as the BlackBerry Bold) have a physical keyboard, which allows the entire screen to be used for display purposes.

Internet access is an important feature of smartphones. Generally, you will need to purchase a 3G or 4G data plan in addition to normal cell service. Smartphones can also connect to Wi-Fi when it is available, which is usually faster than 3G.

A personal digital assistant (PDA) is a mobile device that is used for managing phone numbers, addresses, calendars, and other information. Before smartphones existed, a PDA was usually a separate device. Today, smartphones combine the functionality of a PDA and a mobile phone.

>>>Challenge!

l. Think about how a tablet computer is different from a laptop. What are some of the

advantages and disadvantages of a tablet computer?

2. If you're thinking about buying an e-reader, think about what kinds of things you like

to read. Do you mostly read books or magazines? What kind of screen do you think

would be best?

3. Smartphones can have virtual keyboards or physical keyboards. What are some

advantages and disadvantages for each one?

[10] Connecting to the Internet

How Do I Connect to the Internet?

Once you've set up your computer, you'll probably want to get internet access so that you can send and receive email, browse the web, watch movies, and more. Before you can access the internet, there are three things that you need: internet service, a modem, and a web browser.

Choosing an Internet Service

Which Service is Best for Me?

It all depends on where you live and how much speed you need. Internet Service Providers usually offer different levels of speed based on your needs. If you're mainly using the internet for e-mail and social networking, a slower connection might be all you need, but if you want to download a lot of music or watch streaming movies, you'll want a faster connection. You'll need to do some research to find out what the options are in your area.

Types of Internet Service

> Dial-up

> DSL
> Cable
> Satellite
> 3G and 4G

Choosing an Internet Service Provider

Once you have decided which type of internet access you are interested in, you can determine which ISPs are available in your area that offer the type of internet access you want. Then, you will need to purchase internet service from one of the available ISPs. Talk to friends, family members, and neighbors to see what ISP they use.

Below are some things to consider as you research ISPs:

> Speed

> Price

> Ease of Installation

> Service Record

> Technical Support

> Contract Terms

Although dial-up has traditionally been the cheapest option, many ISPs have raised dial-up prices to be the same as broadband. This is intended to encourage people to switch over to broadband. Generally, you should only use dial-up if it's the only option available.

Hardware Needed

Modem

Once you have your computer, you really don't need much additional hardware to connect to the internet. The primary piece of hardware you need is a modem. The type of internet access you choose will determine what type of modem you need. Dial-up access uses a telephone modem, DSL service uses a DSL modem, cable access uses a cable modem, and satellite service uses a satellite adapter. Your ISP may give you a modem (often for a fee) when you sign a contract with them, which helps to ensure that you have the right kind of modem. However, if you would prefer to shop for a better or cheaper modem, then you can choose to buy one separately.

Router

A router is a hardware device that allows you to connect several computers and other devices to a single internet connection, which is known as a home network. Many routers are wireless, allowing you to easily create a wireless network. You don't necessarily need to buy a router to connect to the internet. It's possible to connect your computer directly to your modem using an Ethernet cable. Also, many modems now include a built-in router, so you have the option of creating a network without having to buy more hardware.

Most routers also act as a hardware firewall, which helps prevent people from gaining access to your computer through the internet.

Network Card

A network card is a piece of hardware that allows computers to communicate over a computer network. Most newer computers have a network card built into the motherboard, so it probably is not something you will need to purchase. The network card will either have an Ethernet port, a wireless connection, or both. If you have a laptop with a wireless connection, you can access the internet at any place that offers a Wi-Fi connection. Many restaurants, coffee shops, bookstores, hotels and other businesses offer free Wi-Fi. In addition, many cities provide free Wi-Fi in public areas such as parks and downtown areas.

Web Browsers

A web browser is the tool that you use to access the World Wide Web. The browser's main job is to display web pages. It also lets you create Bookmarks (sometimes called Favorites) for sites you like, so that you can easily find them again later.

!!! The World Wide Web is a virtual network of web sites connected by hyperlinks (or "links"). Web sites are stored on servers on the internet, so the World Wide Web is a part of the internet.

Your computer probably came with a browser preinstalled. PCs come with Internet Explorer, and Macs come with Safari. If you prefer to use a different browser, you can download Firefox, Google Chrome, or Opera. All of these browsers are free.

Setting Up Your Internet Connection

Once you have chosen an ISP and purchased the appropriate modem, you can use the instructions provided by your ISP (or included with the modem) to set up your internet connection. Depending on what type of service you have, your ISP may need to send a technician to your house in order to turn the connection on. After you have everything set up, you can open your web browser and begin using the internet. If you have any

problems with your internet connection, you can call your ISP's tech support number.

Home Networking

If you have multiple computers at home and want to use all of them to access the internet, you'll probably want to create a home network. In a home network, all of your devices connect to your router, which is connected to the modem. That means everyone in your family can use the internet at the same time, and you don't have to purchase a separate internet service for each computer.

How is a Home Network Used?

Each computer on a network doesn't just connect to the internet - it also connects to the other computers and devices on the network. That means you can easily share

files with other computers. Some programs even let you stream music and movies from one computer to another. One example of this is the Home Sharing feature in iTunes.

These types of features are easy to set up, but it's up to you whether you want to use them.

Home networks aren't just for families! Even if you live alone, you may have multiple devices that can connect to a network. Many phones, printers, mp3 players, video game consoles, and Digital Video Recorders (DVRs) are equipped with wireless cards and often require very little setup to connect them to your home network.

Wireless Security

A home network can be wired (using Ethernet cables) or wireless (using Wi-Fi). It may also be a mixture of the two, with some devices connecting with Ethernet and others connecting wirelessly. Wireless is generally more convenient; however, you'll need to think about wireless security. Below are some important security terms that you'll need to know:

>SSID: A service set identifier, commonly called the SSID,is the name of a wireless network. You should change the default SSID to something unique that you'll remember. You may not want to use your actual name, but you can use a hobby or other interest (for example, rockclimbing1).

>Encryption password: An encryption password is a series of characters that is used to control access to the network. For even greater security, some people use a passphrase, which is longer (and therefore more secure) than a password. You should choose a password or passphrase that's easy for you to remember, but hard for other people to guess.

>Encryption: Encryption prevents unauthorized people from reading the data that is transmitted over your wireless network. The data is coded into an unreadable form, and it can only be decoded by a computer that has the correct password (or passphrase). The most common types of encryption for wireless networks are WPA (Wi-Fi Protected Access) and WPA2.

!!! Although it's possible to create a wireless network that doesn't have a password, it is very risky. You should always create a password or passphrase to protect it from unauthorized access.

Setting Up a Home Network

Before you set up your home network, you'll need to have a working internet connection. The exactprocess of creating a network will vary depending on what type of computer you have, as well as what type of internet service you have. You should use the instructions provided by your ISP (or the ones included with your router) when setting up your network. The following steps will give you an idea of what to expect:

1. If you have a separate router, connect it to the modem, and make sure it has power

through the power adapter. If you have a combined router/modem, you won't have to

do this.

2. Connect all non-wireless devices to your router using Ethernet cables. You may also

need to connect your computer to the router until setup is complete, even if your

computer has a wireless card.

3. From your computer, you will need to create the SSID and password (or passphrase) for

your router. You now have a wireless network that you can begin connecting wireless

devices to.

4. On each wireless device, you will need to go to your network settings and select the

name (SSID) of the network that you just created. You will then be prompted to type in

your password.

At this point, your home network setup is complete. If your network isn't working, the instructions from your ISP should include some troubleshooting tips. You can also call your ISP's tech support number if you're still having

trouble.

>>>Challenge!

l. Research two or more Internet Service Providers and compare their service packages.

What are the different connection speeds offered by each provider?

2. Try using a couple of different web browsers. Do they work differently? Which one

was easier to use?

3. Do you have any devices (computers, mobile phones, etc.) that can connect wirelessly?

Would it make sense to create a wireless network in your home?

[11] Computer Safety and Maintenance

How Do I Keep My Computer Healthy?

Computers are expensive, and with all big purchases, you probably want to protect your investment. Luckily, it is not difficult to keep your computer healthy and in good working order. Maintaining a computer involves three things: keeping it physically clean, protecting it from malware, and backing up your important files.

Keep Your Computer Physically Clean

When dealing with computers, dust isn't just unattractive; it can potentially destroy parts of your computer. By cleaning your computer regularly, you can help to keep it working properly and avoid expensive repairs.

Cleaning the Keyboard

A dirty keyboard doesn't look nice, and can cause your keyboard to not work properly. Dust, food, liquid, or other particles can get stuck underneath the keys, which can cause them not to work. Check your owner's manual to see if the manufacturer has provided you with instructions for your specific keyboard. If so, you should follow them. If not, the following steps are basic cleaning tips that will help you keep your keyboard clean:

1. Unplug the keyboard from the USB or PS/2 port. If the keyboard is plugged into the

PS/2 port, you will need to shut down the computer before unplugging it.

2. Turn the keyboard upside down and gently shake it to remove dirt and dust.

3. Use a can of compressed air to clean between the keys.

4. Moisten a cotton cloth or paper towel with rubbing alcohol, and use it to clean the tops

of the keys. Do not pour alcohol (or any other liquid) directly onto the keys.

5. Reconnect the keyboard to the computer once it is dry. If you are connecting it to a

PS/2 port, you will need to connect it before turning the computer on.

Dealing with Liquids

If you spill liquid on the keyboard, quickly shut down the computer, and disconnect and turn the keyboard upside down to allow the liquid to drain. If the liquid is sticky, you will need to hold the keyboard on its side under running water to rinse the sticky liquid

away. Then, turn the keyboard upside down to drain for two days before reconnecting it. The keyboard may not be repairable at this point, but rinsing the sticky liquid off the keyboard is the only chance for it to be usable again. The best way to avoid this situation is to keep drinks away from the computer area.

Cleaning the Mouse

There are two main types of mice: optical and mechanical. Each is cleaned in basically the same way, although the mechanical mouse requires a bit more work.

>Optical mice require no internal cleaning since there aren't any rotating parts; however, they can get sticky over time as dust collects near the light emitter. This can cause erratic cursor movement or prevent the mouse from working.

>Mechanical mice are especially susceptible to dust and particles that can accumulate inside the mouse, which can make it difficult to track, or move, properly. If the mouse pointer does not move smoothly, the mouse may need to be cleaned.

Before you clean your mouse, check your owner's manual to see if the manufacturer has provided you with

1. Unplug the mouse from the USB or PS/2 port. If the mouse is plugged into the PS/2

port, you will need to shut down the computer before unplugging it.

2. Moisten a cotton cloth with rubbing alcohol, and use it to clean the top and bottom of

the mouse.

3. If you have a mechanical mouse, remove the tracking ball by turning the ball-cover

ring counterclockwise. Then, clean the tracking ball and the inside of the mouse with a

cotton cloth moistened with rubbing alcohol.

4. Let all of the parts dry before reassembling and reconnecting the mouse. If you are

connecting it to a PS/2 port, you will need to connect it before turning the computer

on. If you just want to give the mouse a quick cleaning, place it on a clean, white

sheet of paper and move the mouse back and forth. Some of the dust and particles

should rub off onto the paper.

Cleaning the Monitor

Dirt, finger prints, and dust can make your computer screen difficult to read; however, it's easy to clean your screen when needed. Although there are monitor cleaning kits that you can buy, they may damage your monitor if they are designed for a different type of monitor. For example, a monitor cleaner that is designed for glass screens may not work with some non-glass LCD screens. The safest method is simply to use a soft, clean cloth moistened with water.

Do not use glass cleaner to clean a monitor. Many screens have anti-glare coatings that can be damaged by glass cleaner.

1. Turn off the computer.

2. Unplug the monitor from the power. If you are using a laptop, unplug the laptop.

3. Use a soft, clean cloth moistened with water to wipe the screen clean.

!!! Do not spray any liquids directly onto the screen. The liquid could leak into the monitor and damage the internal components.

Tips for Cleaning Other Computer Surfaces

From time to time, you should clean your computer case and the sides and back of the monitor, to avoid buildup of dust and dirt. Here are a few tips you can use when cleaning these surfaces:

>Dust is your computer's main enemy. Use an anti-static wipe to lightly dust your computer casing. Don't use furniture cleaners or strong solvents.

>Use a can of compressed air with a narrow nozzle to blow out debris from the air intake slots.

>Spray cleaning solution (diluted ammonia cleaner or glass cleaner) on a paper towel or anti-static wipe. Clean the monitor housing and case (not the monitor screen) by wiping in a downward motion.

>A safe cleaning solution for computer surfaces (not computer screens) is ammonia diluted with water, or glass cleaner comprised mostly of ammonia and water (check the label). Remember, the milder the solution, the better.

Keep it Cool

Don't restrict the airflow around your computer. A computer can generate a lot of heat, so the casing has fans that keep it from overheating. Avoid stacking papers, books, or other items around your computer.

Many computer desks have an enclosed compartment for the computer case. If you have this type of desk, you may want to position the case so it is not against the back side of the desk. If the compartment has a door, you may want to leave it open to improve the airflow.

Protecting Your Computer

Safeguarding Against Malware

Malware is any type of software that is designed to damage your computer or gain unauthorized access to your personal information. It includes viruses, worms, Trojan horses, spyware, and other types. Most malware is distributed over the internet, often bundled with other software.

The best way to guard against malware is to install antivirus software such as BitDefender, Norton, or Kaspersky.

Antivirus software helps to prevent malware from being installed, and it can also remove malware from your computer. New malware is being created all the time, so it's important to update your antivirus software frequently. Most antivirus programs can do this automatically, but you'll need to make sure that this feature is enabled.

It's also important to stay smart when you're browsing the web or using email. If a website or email attachment looks suspicious, trust your instincts. Keep in mind that your antivirus program may not catch everything, so it's best to avoid downloading anything that might contain malware.

Backing Up Your Computer

Imagine what would happen if your computer suddenly stopped working. Would you lose any important documents, photos, or other files? It may be possible to repair your computer, but your files may be lost forever. Luckily, you can prevent this by creating backup copies of all of your files (or just the important ones) on an external hard drive or an online backup service.

External Hard Drives

You can purchase an external hard drive and copy the contents of your computer to it. The initial backup could take several hours, so you will need to select a period of time

where you do not need access to your computer. Running the backup overnight usually works best. Follow-up backups should be conducted on a regular basis, but will not take as long because the drive will only need to copy your most recent files.

Western Digital, Iomega and Seagate produce popular external hard drives. Conduct some research on which product best suits your storage needs, or ask a computer sales

representative for recommendations.

One drawback, compared to online backup services, is that your external hard drive can be lost, damaged or stolen just as your computer might be. Therefore, it is important

to keep your drive in a secure location when not in use.

Online Backup Services

You can also back up your files to one of the online backup services like Mozy, Carbonite or Box, and your files will always be accessible to you. The amount of storage space provided by these sites varies and you may have to pay a monthly or yearly fee for adequate storage. Again, do your research as these services are constantly changing and offer varying features.

One drawback to online backup services is that the initial backup can be slow and may even take days to upload if you have a large amount of files. However, subsequent backups should not take as long.

Other Maintenance Techniques

To keep your computer running smoothly, it's important to keep the files and folders

uncluttered. Cluttered or unorganized folders make it more difficult to find the files you need. Additionally, unwanted files can eventually fill up your hard drive, which will make your computer slower and harder to use. Here are a few things you can do to delete unwanted files and improve your computer's performance:

l. Delete Files: If you have any unwanted files, you can delete them manually. To do

this, simply drag them into the Recycle Bin (or Trash), and then empty the Recycle Bin.

2. Disk Defragmenter: Windows includes a Disk Defragmenter program in the Control Panel. It scans the files on your hard drive and then rearranges them so that it can read them faster. If your computer is running slowly, running Disk Defragmenter can help to speed it up.

3. Disk Cleanup: Windows also includes a Disk Cleanup program in the Control Panel. It scans your computer for temporary files and other files that can be deleted. You can then delete the files to free up space on your hard drive.

Creating a Safe Workspace

Avoiding Strain and Injury

In addition to keeping your computer healthy, it's important to think about your own health. Using a computer involves a lot of repetitive motions such as typing and using the mouse. Over time, these motions can begin to take their toll on your body, especially your wrists, neck, and back. Staring at a monitor for long periods of timecan also cause eye strain. To minimize this, you should take a few moments to make sure your workspace is

arranged in a comfortable and healthy way.

Computer ergonomics is the science of equipment design and how specific equipment usage and placement can reduce the user's discomfort and increase productivity. Some equipment is designed with special attention to ergonomics, such as ergonomic keyboards or ergonomic chairs. Here are a few tips to help you avoid injury in your workspace:

>Adjust your chair: Make sure your chair is adjusted to allow you to sit in a natural, comfortable position. Many office chairs are specially designed to support the lower back and promote good posture.

>Keep the keyboard at a comfortable height: Try to place the keyboard in a position that allows you to keep your wrists straight and relaxed, to avoid wrist strain. Many desks have a keyboard tray that may keep the keyboard at a better height. You can also buy an ergonomic keyboard that is designed to minimize wrist strain.

>Keep the mouse close to the keyboard: If possible, place the mouse right next to the keyboard. If the mouse is too far away, it may be uncomfortable or awkward to reach for the mouse.

>Place the monitor at a comfortable distance: The ideal position for a monitor is 20 to 40 inches away from your eyes. It should also be at eye level or slightly lower.

>Avoid clutter: The computer area can quickly become cluttered with papers, computer accessories, and other items. By keeping this area as uncluttered as possible, you can improve your productivity and also prevent strain or injury.

>Take frequent breaks: It's important to take breaks while you're working at your computer. To avoid eye strain, you should look away from the monitor every once in a while. You can also stand up and walk around to avoid sitting in the same position for long periods of time.

>>>Challenge!

l. Take a look at your computer. Does it need to be cleaned?

2. Clean your monitor following the steps in the lesson. Be sure not to use glass cleaner

or any harsh chemicals.

3. Based on the type of mouse you have, clean your mouse following the steps in the

lesson. Do you have an optical or mechanical mouse?

4. What do you do if you spill liquids on your keyboard?

5. Does your computer have antivirus software installed? If not, research some of the

different antivirus programs that are available.

6. What are two ways of backing up the data on your computer?

7. To minimize eye strain, how far should your monitor be from your eyes?

[12] Basic Troubleshooting Techniques

The computer goes blank before the Word document was saved. The browser window freezes for no reason. You can't hear anything from your speakers.

Most people have at one time or another experienced a computer problem like the situations just described, and if you haven't, chances are you will at some point. When a problem occurs, don't panic! Instead, work your way through some basic troubleshooting techniques and try to solve the problem.

General Tips to Keep in Mind

There are many devices, parts, cords, and connections on a computer, which means that there are many possible problems that could arise. In addition, your computer uses a variety of software, which can also cause problems. However, no matter what the problem is, you can use the following tips to help you find a solution:

>Always check the cables: Many computer problems are related to an issue in the cables and connections. The easiestfirst step you can take to troubleshoot most problems is to check all related cables and connections.

>Isolate the problem: If possible, try to isolate the problem. For example, if you can't get the cursor to move on the screen, try to determine if the issue is with the mouse. If you have an extra mouse, you can alternate devices to see if the one plugged in is the issue, or use the arrow keys on the keyboard to help determine if the mouse is the source of the problem. When trying to isolate the problem, only make one change at a time.

>Take notes about error messages: If your computer gives you error messages, be sure to write down as much information as possible. If the basic troubleshooting steps don't work, you may need the information.

>Remember the steps you've taken, or write them down: Once you start troubleshooting, you will want to remember what you have done, so you don't repeat yourself. If you can't

remember it, then write it down. If you end up asking someone for help, it will be much easier if they know exactly which steps you've taken.

Simple Solutions to Common Problems

Most of the time, problems can be fixed by using simple troubleshooting techniques, such as closing and reopening the program. It's important to try these simple solutions before resorting to more extreme measures. If the problem still isn't fixed, you can then try other troubleshooting techniques, such as reinstalling the software.

>Program Runs Slowly or Isn't Working Right

If a program is running slowly or otherwise isn't working right, the first thing you should try is closing the program and re-opening it. You can also shut down your computer, wait a few seconds, and boot it up again. Some minor problems will work themselves out when you do this. Check with the company for any known problems or updates to the software.

>Program is Completely Unresponsive

If a program has become completely unresponsive, you can press (and hold) Control+Alt+Delete on your keyboard to open the Task Manager. You can then select the program that isn't working and click End Task. If you are using a Mac, you can press Option+Command+Esc to open a similar dialog box.

Problems Starting or Shutting Down the Computer

Power Button Will Not Start Computer

>If your computer does not start, begin by checking the power cord to confirm that it is plugged securely into the back of the computer case and the power outlet.

>If it is plugged into an outlet, make sure it is a working outlet. Often, this will require you to plug a lamp or other electrical device into the outlet to make sure it is receiving power.

>If the computer is plugged into a surge protector, verify that it is turned on. You may have to reset the surge protector by turning it off and then back on. You can also plug a lamp or other device into the surge protector to verify that it is on.

>If you are using a laptop, the battery may not be charged. Plug the AC adapter into the wall and then try to turn on the laptop. If it still doesn't start up, you may need to wait a few minutes and then try again.

"Non-System Disk or Disk Error" Message

>If you get this message when you boot up your computer, it usually means there is a CD, DVD, USB flash drive, or floppy disk in your computer, which is interfering with your computer's booting process. Remove the disk from the drive and restart the computer.

Windows Shutting Down Message Will Not Disappear

>Sometimes Windows will freeze during the shutdown process. If this happens, the Windows is Shutting Down message screen will stay active on your screen. To finish shutting down the computer, press and hold the power button for about 10 seconds, or until the computer turns off.

Computer Begins Randomly Rebooting or Crashing

>Check for overheating. Make sure the vents in the case are not blocked. Confirm that there is good air flow around the computer.

>Update your antivirus software and scan for viruses.

Problems with the Monitor and Speakers

No Picture on the Monitor

>Confirm the computer is turned on.

>Check the brightness control, located on your monitor or your keyboard, and make sure it is not set too low.

>Check the connections for the monitor and surge protector, and make sure the surge protector is turned on.

Monitor Goes Blank Periodically

>You may have the screensaver enabled. If the screen saver is enabled, just move your mouse back and forth and your original screen will appear. You can change the screensaver settings by going to your Control Panel (or your System Preferences if you're using a Mac).

No Sound

>Check the volume control on your computer. In Windows, the sound icon will usually be on the taskbar, and you can also access the sound options in the Control Panel. On Macs, the sound options are found at the top of the screen or in System Preferences.

>Most media programs (such as iTunes or Windows Media Player) have a volume control, which will need to be turned up.

>Make sure the speakers are turned on, if using external speakers.

>Make sure external speakers are connected to the correct audio port or a USB port. If your computer has color-coded ports, the audio output will usually be green.

>Connect headphones to the correct audio port and determine if sound is audible from the headphones.

Solving More Difficult Problems

If you still haven't found a solution to your problem, you may need to ask someone else for help. Try searching the web for the problem that you're having, as other people may have had similar problems. Also, if you have a friend or family member who knows a lot about computers, they may be able to help you.

Keep in mind that most computer problems have simple solutions, although it may take some time to find them. For very difficult problems, a more drastic solution may be required, such as reformatting your hard drive, reinstalling programs, or reinstalling your operating system. If you're not a computer expert, it's possible that you could make the situation worse, so it's best to consult a professional if you think a drastic solution is needed.

>>>Challenge!

1. What do you do if a program on a PC is completely unresponsive? What about a

program on a Mac?

2. What should you do if you've tried everything and the problem still isn't fixed?

3. Do you have a family member or friend who knows a lot about computers and would

be able to help you with a computer problem?

Chapter 2. Internet

[1] What is the Internet?

no secret that more and more the internet is becoming an integral part of our everyday lives. But if you are new to the online experience, it may be a bit overwhelming. You may be wondering, "What exactly is the internet, and how does it work?"

his lesson, we will give a brief overview of the internet, and we will talk about some fundamental concepts such as networks, servers, and clients.

The Internet Today

he early days, most people just used the internet to search for information. Today's internet is a constantly evolving tool, that not only contains an amazing variety of information, but also provides new ways of accessing, interacting and connecting with people and content. As a result, new terms are constantly appearing as new technologies are introduced. The internet is the largest computer network in the world, connecting millions of computers. A network is a group of two or more computer systems linked together.

<VoIP>

Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), also known as internet telephone, allows a user to have telephone service through an internet connection. Some people find that they can save money by using VoIP instead of purchasing a separate telephone service. One example is Skype.

<Email>

<Blog>

"Blog" is short for "web log." It's a type of web site that is usually updated frequently, often with news articles or random thoughts. Some sites, such as blogger.com, allow you to create and edit your own blog for free.

<Streaming>

If you watch a movie online or listen to iTunes radio, it's called streaming media, which means it plays while downloading so you don't have to wait for it to download first. The media starts downloading a little bit before it starts playing (called "buffering") so that it can play more smoothly.

<Wiki>

A wiki is a type of website that allows content to be edited or created by anyone. This allows content to stay up to date and (ideally) allows for errors to be found and corrected. Examples include Wikipedia, which is an encyclopedia, and wikiHow, which is a collection of how-to guides.

<online chat>

<Social networking>

Social networking refers to online services that allow people to interact with each other and stay connected with friends, family, and people around the world. Examples include Facebook and Twitter. Some social networking sites, such as LinkedIn, focus on career networking.

<Social bookmaring>

Social bookmarking allows users all over the internet to save and share interesting sites. Examples include Reddit and Delicious.

Some social bookmarking sites are mainly used to share photos that people have found around the web. Pinterest (shown below) is an example of this type of site.

<Podcast>

With a podcast, you can subscribe to a series of audio or video files that will automatically be downloaded to your computer. The files can then be played on the computer or an mp3 player. A podcast is basically a web feed for media. Unlike internet radio, podcasts are not streaming, so the media has to download fully before it can be played.

There are two main types of computer networks:

>Local Area Network (LAN): A LAN is two or more connected computers sharing certain resources in a relatively small geographic location, often in the same building. Examples include home networks and office networks.

>Wide Area Network (WAN): A WAN typically consists of two or more LANs. The computers are farther apart and are linked by telephone lines, dedicated telephone lines, or radio waves. The internet is the largest Wide Area Network (WAN) in existence.

Servers and Clients

You may have heard someone say something like "The server is down" or "We're having problems with the e-mail server." A server is a computer that "serves" many different computers in a network by running specialized software and storing information. For example, web pages are stored on servers.

When you access a web page, your computer is acting as a client. A client runs familiar software such as web browsers or email software, and it communicates with the server to get the information it requires. In order for your browser to display a web page, it requests the data from the server where the page is stored. The server processes the request, then sends the data to your browser, where it is displayed.

In peer-to-peer (P2P) networks, each computer acts as both a server and a client. Examples of P2P software include Skype and BitTorrent.

The World Wide Web (WWW)

When most people think of the internet, the first thing they think about is the World Wide Web. Nowadays, the terms "internet" and "World Wide Web" are often used interchangeably—but they're actually not the same thing. The internet is the physical network of computers all over the world. The World Wide Web is a virtual network of web sites connected by hyperlinks (or "links"). Web sites are stored on servers on the internet, so the World Wide Web is a part of the internet.

HTML

The backbone of the World Wide Web is made of HTML files, which are specially-formatted documents that can contain links, as well as images and other media. All web browsers can read HTML files.

URL

To get to a web page, you can type the URL (Uniform Resource Locator) in a browser. The URL, also known as the web address, tells the browser exactly where to find the page. However, most of the time, people get to a web page by following a link from a different page or by searching for the page with a search engine.

The World Wide Web was created in 1989 by Tim Berners-Lee, a software engineer. Before then, computers could communicate over the internet, but there were no web pages.

Did you know?

>The foundation of the internet began in 1969, when the US Department of Defense created ARPAnet, a project to allow military personnel to communicate with each other in an emergency.

>By 2012, the number of internet users worldwide reached 2.4 billion—about one third of the world's population. To store all of the information on the internet, you would need over 1 billion DVDs or 200 million Blu-ray discs.

[2] How is the Internet Used?

As the internet has grown, it has developed into a multifaceted tool with a vast

range of uses. It's now easy to keep in touch with friends, publish your own articles, or even watch your favorite TV shows using the internet. In this lesson, we'll talk about some of the ways the Internet is used today, including blogs, social networking, instant messaging, VoIP, and media.

Finding Information Online

The most common way to find information online is with a search engine. All you have to do is type in a few words, and the search engine will give you a list of results that you can click on. There are many different search engines that you can use, but Google is the most popular one.

Intelligent Personal Assistants

If you're using a mobile device, there are some situations where it's not convenient to type a search into a search engine. Instead, you can simply talk to your device's intelligent personal assistant. One example is Siri, which comes pre-installed on all new iPhones.

With Siri, you can ask a question like "What's the weather today?" or "Are there any Thai restaurants nearby?" Siri will then try to give you an answer. You can also use Siri to do other things on your device such as setting up reminders. For example, you could say, "Remind me to go to the dentist on Thursday."

Using the Internet to Communicate

The internet isn't just about finding information. It's also about connecting with friends, family, and people you've never met before. Today, there are many different ways to communicate online, including social networking, chat, VoIP, and blogging.

Social Networking

Social networking has become one of the main ways people keep in touch. Below are a few of the most popular social networking sites:

>Facebook is used by about one billion people. If you have family or friends that live far

away, you can use Facebook to keep up with their lives. You can also share things you've

found online that interest you.

>Twitter lets you share brief messages (or "tweets") with the entire world, or with just your circle of friends. By following people with similar interests, you can discover new things that you wouldn't have found otherwise.

>LinkedIn is a site that you can use for business networking. It allows you to connect

with other people in your field and find out about new job opportunities.

Chat and Instant Messaging

Chat and instant messaging programs allow you to have conversations with your friends or just write them a quick note. Two examples are Yahoo! Messenger and Microsoft Messenger. Some sites, such as Gmail and Facebook, allow you to chat within your browser.

VoIP

VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol), allows you to have telephone service through your internet connection. Some services also let you do video conferencing, such as Skype and Facebook Video Calling. Many of these services are free or very inexpensive, and some people use them as a replacement for a landline, or just to save minutes on their mobile phones.

Blogs

Today, the average user has the ability to shape the web by adding to it. If you have knowledge or interests that you're passionate about, you can create your own blog and share your thoughts with the world. There are many sites like blogger.com and wordpress.com that let you create a blog for free. You don't need any web design experience—most of the technical stuff has already been created for you, and you can choose a predesigned template that has the look and feel that you want.

Media on the Internet

TV, radio, and the internet used to be completely separate things, but that's no longer true with today's technology. You can now watch TV shows on your computer, and you can connect to the internet on many TVs and DVD/Blu-ray players. In addition, you can listen to online radio from all over the world, thus granting you greater access to a more diverse range of media.

Streaming Media

TV and radio on the internet are examples of streaming media, which means the media downloads while it's playing so you don't have to wait for it to download first.

Not all media is streaming. If you've ever bought music on the iTunes store, you probably had to wait for it to download before you could listen to it.

Media Players and Embedded Media

Media is often embedded in a web page, which means that it plays within the web browser. Other times, you'll use a separate program called a media player to play it. Examples include Windows Media Player and iTunes. An iPod contains built-in media player software that can play various types of files.

Online Media on Your TV

You can now access online TV shows, movies, and music on your TV. Many newer TVs are able to connect to an existing internet connection. If yours doesn't have this feature built-in, you can buy a separate digital media receiver, which is a small device that connects to your TV. Apple TV and Roku are two examples of digital media receivers. Many game consoles, such as the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3, can also be used to access online content.

Using the Internet in the Future

The internet is always changing, and the ways in which we access it will also continue to change. Current trends will become more common and integrated into our everyday lives. In addition, we'll see many technologies and devices in the future that will allow us to use the internet in new and exciting ways.

[3] Connecting to the Internet

<앞장 cmptr basics의 인터넷 연결하기 참조>

[4] Browser Basics

A web browser is the tool that you use to access the World Wide Web. In order to get the most out of the Web, it's important to understand the various features of a browser.

In this lesson, we'll talk about navigating the Web with a browser, downloading files, bookmarking your favorite web sites, tabbed browsing, plug-ins and more.

Browser Basics

To get the most out of your web browser, there are some basic concepts that you need to be familiar with, including navigation, downloading, bookmarking, tabbed browsing, and plug-ins.

Common Web Browsers

Today, Chrome and Internet Explorer are the most popular web browsers. Other browsers include Firefox, Safari, and Opera. Each one has its own look and feel, but they have the same goal: to display web pages correctly. For most web pages, any well-known browser will work.

Like most modern programs, browsers use a Graphical User Interface (GUI), which means you can navigate by pointing and clicking with a mouse instead of just typing. Some devices such as mobile phones use different types of GUIs, such as touchscreens. However, many of the principles remain the same.

Navigating to a Web Site

To get the most out of your web browser, there are some basic concepts that you need to be familiar with.

Address Bar

Browsers have an address bar that shows the web address (also called a URL) of the page you are on. To go to a different page, you can type an address in the address bar and then press Enter (or Return).

Links

Most of the time, you will get to a different page by clicking on a link. A link can be text or an image, and it's usually formatted to stand out so you know to click on it. Many text links are blue, and they may also be underlined.

For example, this is a link. It will open a web page in a new window, and you can close it to come back to this page.

A link may lead to another web page, or it could lead to a document, video, or any other type of file. If you're not sure if something's a link, hover the mouse over it. The pointer should change to a hand symbol.

Navigation Buttons

Sometimes, after you click on a link, you might want to go back to the previous page. You can do this using your browser's Back button. Once you've pressed the Back button, you can press the Forward button to follow the link again.

When you use the Back and Forward buttons, your browser may use its web cache to display the page. The web cache stores recently-viewed web pages so that they don't need to be downloaded again. That's usually good because it speeds up your web browsing, but sometimes you want to see the most up-to-date information on the page. You can use the Refresh button (sometimes called Reload) to tell the browser to load the page again.

There are some instances where you don't want to use the navigation buttons. For example, in some online stores, you shouldn't refresh the page after purchasing an item, as it could cause you to purchase the item twice

Search Bar

Some browsers have a built-in search bar for performing web searches. However, many browsers have combined the address bar and the search bar into a single bar where you can type web addresses or search terms. We'll talk more about web searches in the next lesson.

Some websites may track your activities online, usually for marketing purposes. It's also possible to encounter malicious sites that could harm your computer. check out Staying Safe While Browsing in our Internet Safety tutorial.

Adding Bookmarks

If you've found a page you'd like to go back to later, you can add it to your bookmarks (sometimes called favorites). Bookmarks make it easier to find a page later on. Instead of having to remember the exact web address, you can just scroll through your bookmarks until you see the name of the page.

Browsing History

Suppose you visited a page a few days ago but forgot to bookmark it. You can find the page again by using your history, which is a list of web sites you've visited. Usually, pages will stay in the history for a certain number of days. To maintain privacy, you can delete your history at any time.

Viewing Your History

l. To view your history in Internet Explorer 9, click the star icon and then select the

history tab.

Deleting Your History

1. In Internet Explorer 9, click the gear icon to open the Tools menu.

2. Click Safety and then select Delete browsing history....

If you're using a browser other than Internet Explorer, the process of viewing and deleting history will be a little bit different.

Tabbed Browsing

Many browsers allow you to open a link in a new tab. This allows you to keep the current page open instead of going directly to the new page. For example, if you're reading an article that has a link in it, you can open the link in a new tab so that you can finish reading the article. Then, you can go to the new tab to view the link.

Tabs are designed to make browsing more convenient. You can open as many links as you want, and they'll stay in the same browser window instead of cluttering up your screen with multiple windows.

1. To open a link in a new tab, right-click the link and click Open in new tab (the wording may vary from browser to browser). To close a tab, click the "X" on the tab.

Downloading Files

Your browser can display many different types of documents, media, and other files. But there are times when you'll want to access a file outside your browser. Downloading enables you to do this by putting the file on your computer so that you can access it.

For example, suppose you needed to complete and print a form that you found online. You could download it to your desktop, then open it with the appropriate program (such as Microsoft Word) to edit it.

How to Download a File

If you click on a link to a file, it may download automatically, but sometimes it just opens within your browser instead of downloading. To prevent it from opening in the browser, you can right-click the link and select Save Target As... (different browsers may use slightly different wording). You'll be able to choose the folder where the file is saved.

Since the process of downloading a file varies from site to site, it may require some trial and error.

For various reasons, many sites do not allow you to download content. For example, YouTube does not offer a way to download its videos.

Saving Images

Sometimes you might want to save an image to your computer. To do this, right-click the image and select Save Picture As...

Plug-ins

Plug-ins are programs that are installed in your browser that enable it to play various types of media, such as video. Examples of plug-ins include Quicktime Player and Flash Player. If you don't have the correct plug-in, the site will usually provide a link to download the plug-in.

Once you have the necessary plug-ins, you'll be able to enjoy streaming video from sites such as Hulu, and play games on sites such as Newgrounds.

Your browser may have come with some plug-ins already installed.

[5] Search Engines and Strategies

With billions of web pages on the World Wide Web, how can you find exactly what you're looking for? By using a search engine. Search engines are specialized web sites that help you find what you're looking for on the Web. All you have to do is type in one or more keywords, and the search engine will look for matching web sites from all over the Web.

In this lesson, you'll learn the basics of using a search engine, as well as some techniques you can use to get better search results.

Performing a Search

There are numerous search engines out there, but the most popular ones are Google, Yahoo, and Bing. Each one has its own unique features, but the process of doing a search is very similar on each.

Using the Search Bar

Many browsers have a built-in search bar, located to the right of the address bar. To do a search, just type what you're looking for (known as the search terms) in the search bar, and then press Enter. Your browser will then take you to the search engine's web site to show you the search results, which is a list of all of the web sites that contain your search terms.

Assessing the Search Results

After you do a search, glance over the first page of search results. Did it return what you are looking for, or is it just a lot of unnecessary "junk"? If your search results don't seem very good, you may need to try different search terms. Remember, the search

engine can't read your mind; it just looks for matching words. For example, if you just search for the word polish, the search engine doesn't know whether you're looking for shoe polish or a history of the Polish language

You could improve your search results by searching for shoe polish. However, that still may return a wide variety of web sites, such as:

> Stores that sell shoe polish

> Guides on how to polish shoes

> The history of shoe polish

> And probably much more

To get the best results, ask yourself: What exactly am I looking for? Specific terms usually return better results.

Related Searches

A search engine will often recommend related searches that may be more specific than the search terms you

used. Related searches are usually listed at the bottom of the page. Bing also lists them to the left of the search

results

Improving Your Searches

As you gain experience with search engines, you'll be able to do better and better searches, which means it will become quicker and easier to find what you are looking for. Here are a few tips for improving your searches:

>Take suggestions. As you're typing your search terms, the search engine will try to guess what you're searching for, and it will show a list of search suggestions (which are similar to related searches, except they happen while you're typing). These can give you ideas for search terms that you may not have thought of.

>Search phrases. Put quotes around a phrase so each word in the phrase isn't searched for separately. For example, if you put quotes around "sugar cookies", the search engine searches for that entire phrase in aweb page. However, if you simply type sugar cookies, the search engine searches for each of the words individually, and it will find recipes for other types of cookies that have sugar in the ingredients.

>Exclude words. Use a hyphen (-) at the beginning of a word to exclude search results containing it. For example, macaroni -cheese. Note that there is a space before the hyphen, but not after it. In many search engines the word NOT (in all caps) is used, as in macaroni NOT cheese.

>Use OR. You can use OR (all caps) to include either of two search words. For example, soup recipe tofuOR fish should return recipes for soup that contain tofu or fish (or both). You could also search for soup recipe tofu OR fish OR chicken OR beef.

>Get Help. Go to your search engine's Help page for more tips.

Specialized Searches

Are you looking for news articles, images, videos, or online stores? You can use a specialized search to search for a specific type of content. For example, if you do an image search, the search will find and display images for you, instead of finding links to pages that may or may not have relevant images.

Generally, a search engine will include links at the top of the page to go to the specialized searches.

<참고자료>

Internet Safety

[1] Introduction

We all know we need to stay safe while using the internet, but we may not know just how to do that. In the past, internet safety was mostly about protecting your computer from viruses. But today, the internet's vast reach, constantly changing technologies and growing social nature have made users more vulnerable to identity theft, privacy violations and even harassment.

This lesson will introduce you to the types of threats you may encounter while online. It will teach you basic strategies like how to Google yourself and create strong passwords, in addition to encouraging you to adopt a safer mindset toward using the internet.

Adopting a Safer Mindset

When it comes to the internet, people generally think they are safer than they actually are. Why? Well, often the impersonal nature of technology can give us a false sense of security. After all, no one can physically attack us through a computer screen. We tend to have an it-won't-happen-to-me attitude. We may even believe that our computer programs and the "powers that be" are automatically taking care of all that internet security stuff for us. Sometimes we just avoid it all together because, to be frank, we just don't get it. Does this sound like you? Consider the following the questions:

> Have you ever Googled yourself to see what information can be found on you?

> Have you set your computer's security program to make sure you are getting regular

updates?

> Do you have an external back-up source for your computer?

> Are you enticed by emails or advertisements with special discount offers?

> When shopping online, do you check a website's security status before entering your

billing information?

> Have you customized your privacy settings for your social networking accounts like

Facebook, MySpace, Skype, etc.?

Do these questions make you nervous? Don't worry, this tutorial is not meant to scold or scare you, but to make you realize that there are precautions we should all be taking on a regular basis to maintain our personal safety and protect our computer while using the internet.

Think of the Internet as You Would a Shopping Mall

Generally a mall is not considered a dangerous place. We go there to shop, run errands and meet people, but we also take precautions while there. We wouldn't leave our car unlocked in the parking lot or walk around with our wallet hanging out of our purse. We wouldn't tell a sales clerk our social security number or give our address to a stranger we just met.

The same applies when we are on the internet. We need not fear our every mouse click, but we should take precautions to ensure our safety.

Understanding Internet Threats

Before we can learn how to protect ourselves, we need to understand what the threats are on the internet.

<Pharming>

Pharming is a technique used to redirect a legitimate website's traffic to another illegitimate website in order to gain access to a user's personal information.

<Phishing>

Phishing is mail or instant message scams that are disguised to look like official communications from a legitimate website. They fool users into providing sensitive information like passwords, credit card details, etc.

<Spyware>

Spyware is a type of malware that collects information about users without their knowledge, often to track browsing habits and to create pop-up advertisements. Along with invading your privacy, it can sometimes interfere with a computer's functions.

Spyware is sometimes bundled with other software. Before downloading software, it's a good idea to read the reviews to see if it has a good reputation.

<Browser Hijacking>

Browser hijacking occurs when malware or spyware replaces your browser's home page with its own in order to force more hits to a particular website.

<Clickjacking>

Clickjacking is a technique that tricks users into clicking on a malicious link by adding the link to a transparent layer over what appears to be a legitimate web page.

Users think they are clicking on buttons or links in the legitimate page, when in reality they are clicking on the concealed links in the hidden page and often providing access to confidential information in the process.

<Hoax>

A hoax is an email chain letter that warns of impending viruses and tries to scare users into forwarding and continuing the hoax email.

<Mousertrapping>

Mousetrapping keeps visitors from leaving a website by locking them into a window, opening multiple windows on the desktop, or relaunching their website in a window that can't be closed.

Internet Safety and Privacy

In the past, internet safety generally referred to threats to our computer hardware or identity theft, but now with the internet becoming more and more social, privacy has become a significant safety concern. Privacy violations can especially affect our mental and physical well-being, thus creating distress or harm from the following:

> Undesired advertisements that can be annoying

> Embarrassing or humiliating photos or videos

> Legal entanglements from libelous posts

> Cyber-harassment or cyber-stalking

> Identity theft

> Offline or "real world" crimes

Understanding the lingo

<Sockpuppet>

A sockpuppet is a fake identify that someone creates and uses to deceive others for some kind of personal gain. On most websites it is possible to have more than one account, so it is easy to create sockpuppets.

For example, John could have a few online identities for the same chat service: John45, Sarah03, and HarmonicasRock12. When he is HarmonicasRock12, he might pretend to be a 30-year-old music enthusiast to find out what music stores you go to. And when he is Sarah03, he might pretend to be a 20-year old college student to find out where you went to college.

<Avatar>

An avatar is a virtual representation of yourself. The term usually refers to a virtual image. Instead of using your picture on a social networking profile, you might use an avatar to protect your privacy.

<Dooced>

If someone loses their job because of something they posted on a blog or social networking site, they have been dooced.

<Troll>

A troll is a person who posts comments just to get a rise out of people and cause a distraction. Trolls might say something rude, assert incorrect information, or ask questions unrelated to the topic at hand. People who respond to obvious trolling posts are said to be feeding the trolls, which often causes the trolls to return and continue disrupting the discussion.

<Flame war>

A flame war is a heated argument in a social media outlet such as a web forum, mailing list or chat room, in which intentionally insulting comments and personal attacks become a focus of conversation.

<Screen name>

A screen name, sometimes called a user name, is a virtual name that is used to identify users of a website where social media is a component. Your screen name can be your real name or a pseudonym.

On sites where you regularly interact with strangers, it is a good idea to choose a pseudonym. When choosing a descriptive pseudonym such as tennis247 or partyboy18, keep in mind the image it might protray and the response it will solicit.

<Flamebait>

A comment posted by someone trying to provoke a flame, or an angry response, is called flamebait. If anyone responds to the comment, they are said to have taken the bait.

<Meme>

Meme is something that has gone viral, or spread rapidly around the internet, such as a catchphrase, hoax, topic, concept or piece of media.

Memes are often cute, funny or curious and make you want to pass them on! If you are forwarding an email, just remember that everyone who gets that email in the future could have access to your email address.

<Posts>

Content that people publish on websites involving social media, such as blogs, newsgroups, and forums are called posts. Twitter calls the posts that users make to Twitter sites tweets.

Posts are available to everyone who has access to the site. You do not always have the option to change or delete your post once it is posted. It is an instantly public representation of you or your online identify. Think before you post!

Googling Yourself

Do you know how much anyone can quickly find out about you and your background just by doing a simple web search? Most people don't know that personal records such as their address, phone number, and sometimes even pictures can be easily accessible to anyone online. While this information may not be harmful, in some situations you could put yourself at risk by not knowing what is out there. For instance, someone only needs to find out your home phone number, and they can find your address and directions to your house just by doing a simple online search. Google yourself regularly to find out which websites and public databases share information about you.

Make the Most out of Your Search

Enter search terms such as your name, email address, home and work address, and phone numbers in a variety of ways to get the most accurate and complete results. Also, putting quotes around your search terms tells the search engine to find a specific phrase just how you wrote it. This will make your search more efficient

> First name and last name: "Will Bolding”

> First, middle, and last name: “Will Edward Bolding”

> Last name followed by a comma and then your first name: “Bolding, Will”

> Last name followed by a comma, your first name and middle name: “Bolding, Will

Edward”

> Street address: “2521 Street Address Lane”

> Phone number (using no spaces or hyphens searches all instances of your number):

“9195554444”

> Email address: “boldingsoccer@email.com”

Removing Your Information from Websites

You can ask a website to remove your information. Keep in mind that they are not always obligated to comply with your request. If the information posted about you is a direct threat to your safety and you need help negotiating with a website to remove the content, you can contact WiredSafety.org. They will be able to advise you on your specific case.

You can also pay an outside service like Reputation.com to remove your personal information online. For most people, this kind of service is unnecessary, but keep in mind that it is an option.

[2] Passwords: The First Step to Safety

Passwords: The First Step to Safety

Most people don't put a lot of thought into creating a password. It's usually easiest just to create a short, easy-to-remember password, or even just to use the same password for every account you have. After all, the average person probably won't be able to guess your password.

However, hackers often use password-cracking software that can keep testing many different passwords until they find the correct one, and they can easily crack weak passwords. By creating strong passwords, you can greatly reduce the chance that your personal or financial information will be stolen.

Common Password Mistakes

Many people create passwords based on their spouse's name, a hobby, or a simple pattern, since those types of passwords are easy to remember. Unfortunately, they are also very easy for hackers to guess. To create a strong password, you will need to avoid these types of common mistakes.

Tips For Creating Strong Passwords:

>Never use personal information such as your name, birthday, or spouse's name. Personal information is often publicly available, which makes it much easier for someone to guess your password.

>Use a longer password. Your password should be at least six characters long, and for extra security it should ideally be at least twelve characters (if the site allows it). If you need to write down your passwords, keep them in a secure place. It's even better if you "encrypt" your passwords or just write down hints for them that others won't be able to understand.

>Don't use the same password for each account. If someone does discover your password for one account, all of your other accounts will be vulnerable. Try to include numbers, symbols and both uppercase and lowercase letters (if the site allows it). Avoid using words that can be found in the dictionary. For example, "swimming1" would be a very weak

password.

>Random passwords are the strongest. Use a password generator instead of trying to think of your own. Random passwords are harder to remember, so create a mnemonic device. For example, "H=jNp2#" can be remembered as "HARRY = jessica NOKIA paris 2 #." This may still seem random, but with a bit of practice it becomes relatively easy to memorize.

Using Password Managers

Instead of writing your passwords on paper where others can easily see them, you can use a password manager to encrypt and store them online. Some password managers can also generate random passwords, making your information even more secure. Examples of password managers include LastPass, KeePass, Firefox's password manager, and Google Chrome's password manager.

[3] Protecting Your Computer from Internet Threats

Viruses, Trojan horses, worms and spyware are all threats that can damage our computer systems. We know we need to protect our computer, but with so many antivirus programs on the market, how do we know what's best for our specific needs?

In this lesson, we will review what kind of antivirus protection you might need and how you can determine which product is best for you. In addition, we will discuss how to back up your system and get the most out of your security programs.

What Protection Do You Need?

The best defense against internet threats is good antivirus software, or anti-malware as it is sometimes known. Antivirus software can protect you from infected email attachments, corrupt websites, internet worms, spyware and more. There are a ton of antivirus products on the market, so figuring out what you need can be quite confusing and overwhelming. Therefore, we will outline the things you need to consider to give you a better idea of what you should be looking for in an antivirus program.

Multiple Protections

The protection you obtain should include the following three components:

> Antivirus - specifically protects against viruses

> Anti-spyware - protects against malicious software that may be gathering your information without your knowledge

> Firewall - screens out threats that try to reach your computer over the internet Some security suites offer a lot of additional protections, but these are the three main components that you will need.

Security Suites

Most antivirus companies offer both a stand-alone product that only scans for viruses, and a packaged security suite that offers additional protections like firewalls, spam filtering, anti-spyware tools and more.

>Security Suites

Security suites are generally easier to manage and offer a wide range of protection which can be useful if you are a beginner. However, in some cases the extra functions of a suite are not as good as the standalone products for that function. In addition, some suites have a tendency to slow down a computer.

>Stand-Alone Products

More advanced users sometimes prefer to take a pick-and-mix approach, researching and selecting the best products for each component and building their own security system.

Things to Consider Before You Buy

Investigate Your Computer

If you are purchasing a new computer, you should ask the sales representative about what types of protections are already provided. Some computers come with security software, but you may need to subscribe to it after a trial period. Windows 7 and Mac OS X already have built-in firewalls. However, they cannot help you unless you make sure they are turned on.

In addition, your web browser has security settings that you should review. Before you choose a new antivirus software, it would be a good idea to fully investigate what protections you already have on your computer.

Free vs. Paid Premium Software

There are a number of free antivirus programs available that can offer an adequate amount of protection. However, many free antiviruses are scaled-back versions of paid software programs that companies hope you will eventually upgrade to. The disadvantage of free antiviruses is that they often do not include technical support and may have limited functions and updating capabilities. It should be noted that most paid software is based on a yearly subscription that will need to be renewed in order to receive the latest software and updates.

Mac Users

Traditionally, there have been fewer Mac viruses, and as a result many Mac users do not use antivirus software. However, Mac viruses have become more common recently. Many experts now recommend using antivirus software, as well as turning on the OS X Firewall.

Scareware

Malicious links disguised as security warnings have become a popular tactic with cybercriminals. These official-looking notices warn you that your computer has a virus, and claim that you need to click a link or download a program to fix it. They are trying to scare you into clicking the link, but in reality the link leads to malware.

The word for this type of scam is scareware. Scareware also shows up in a lot of advertisements for antivirus software, so as you begin browsing for this software make sure you are checking the address domains and going to legitimate websites for your research. Just note that any virus warnings that show up through your web browser or email are bogus.

How to Choose an Antivirus Software

Now that you have assessed your needs and determined whether you want a stand-alone product or a security suite, you can begin the process of choosing an antivirus software. Review the interactive below to learn about what you should focus on in your research.

Strategies for Using an Antivirus Software

The most important thing to remember is that new viruses are being introduced on a constant basis; therefore, your antivirus software is only as good as the latest update. Follow these strategies to make sure you are using your antivirus software effectively:

> Make sure the automatic update function is turned on.

> Don't ignore your renewal notices. Once your subscription expires, you will stop receiving updates.

> There may be times when you need to disable your antivirus to allow certain programs, upgrades or downloads. Just make sure you don't forget to re-enable your program when finished.

> Your antivirus should give you specific instructions for dealing with difficult problems, but if you are having trouble with an issue, contact technical support.

> If you are unhappy with an antivirus program, make sure you uninstall it before installing a new product.

Additional Computer Safety Practices to Consider

Below are some additional tips that you can use to keep your computer healthy.

>Restart Your Computer Regularly

Some of us leave our computers on all the time, but it is a good practice to turn it off and restart it at least once a week. This gives your computer a chance to perform regular diagnostic checks, and fix minor issues before they become a problem.

>Install Software Updates

When your operating system informs you of a software update, download and install it. Software updates are designed to fix security vulnerabilities and other bugs in your operating system. This will help protect your computer against some of the latest threats.

>Use System Restore

If you have a download that is causing problems, then try your operating system's system restore function. This feature allows you to restore your computer to a time and place before it started to have issues.

Back Up Your Computer

With antivirus protection, your chances of losing your files to damaging malware are greatly reduced. However, no product offers 100% security; therefore, it is a good idea to back up your files on an external source. Windows 7 and Mac Operating Systems do come with an internal backup system, but this will not help you if your computer is lost, damaged or stolen. For externally backing up your files, there are two basic options for home users:

external hard drives or online backup services.

External Hard Drives

You can purchase an external hard drive and copy the contents of your computer to it. The initial backup could take several hours, so you will need to select a period of time where you do not need access to your computer. Running the backup overnight usually works best. Follow-up backups should be conducted on a regular basis, but will not take as long because the drive will only need to copy your most recent files.

Western Digital, Iomega and Seagate produce popular external hard drives. Conduct some research on which product best suits your storage needs, or ask a computer sales representative for recommendations.

One drawback, compared to online backup services, is that your external hard drive can be lost, damaged or stolen just as your computer might be. Therefore, it is important to keep your drive in a secure location when not in use.

Online Backup Services and the Cloud

You can also back up your files online—in other words, in the cloud. When you store something in the cloud, it's your computer is lost, damaged or stolen.

Popular online backup services that utilize this technology include Mozy, Carbonite and Box. The amount of storage space provided by these sites varies and you may have to pay a monthly or yearly fee for adequate storage. Again, do your research as these services are constantly changing and offer varying features.

One drawback to online backup services is that the initial backup can be slow and may even take days to upload if you have a large amount of files. However, subsequent backups should not take as long.

[4] Email Tips for Scams and Spam

Email has become an essential tool for communicating, which is why it is so popular with scammers, cybercriminals and advertising companies. In order toprotect ourselves from phishing scams and malware, it is essential that we learn how to safely manage our mail.

In this lesson, you will learn tips for managing spam and email attachments.

In addition, you will learn how to identify and avoid phishing scams.

Spam

Spam is another term for junk email or unwanted email advertisements. Today, the majority of emails are spam. That's because it's very easy and inexpensive for a spammer to send an email to thousands of people at the same time, and they can do it anonymously, making anti-spam laws difficult to enforce. Phishing scams and malware are often included in spam, so it is important to be able to effectively manage the spam we receive in our inbox.

Tips For Dealing With Spam:

>Use a Spam Blocker. A spam blocker can greatly reduce the amount of spam that ends up in your inbox. Most online email services like Yahoo or Gmail have a built-in spam blocker. You can also use a separate anti-spam program such as MailWasher, which can be used with Outlook or any other email program. Unfortunately, even with a spam blocker, some spam may still get through.

>Don't Reply to Spam. You may be tempted to reply to a spam email or click on a link within the email to unsubscribe. This may work with legitimate emails that you have subscribed to; however, spammers will rarely honor these requests. In fact, by replying or clicking on a link, you are confirming to the spammer that your email address works, and you may end up getting more spam.

>Turn Off Images. An email may contain images that the spammer can track. When you open the email, the images will load, and the spammer will be able to tell that your email

address works, possibly resulting in even more spam.

>Turn Off Your Preview Pane (if your email service has one). You cannot avoid viewing spam when your email automatically displays it in your preview pane. Once you view a spam message it may actually lead to receiving more spam. Therefore, you will need to weigh the convenience of using your preview pane withyour desire to avoid spam.

>Regularly Check Your Spam Folder. Sometimes, spam blockers block legitimate emails. It's a good idea to regularly check your spam folder to make sure you are not missing important emails. Check your email program for settings that will "allow" legitimate emails that are being blocked.

Email Scams

Many spam emails aren't trying to sell you something—they're trying to steal your money or personal information. Email scams come in many different forms, but generally they work by promising you something that's too good to be true or by making you think something bad will happen if you do not act. Popular email scams include work-at-home offers, weight-loss claims, debt-relief programs and cure-all products.

Advance-Fee Fraud

Have you ever seen an email or classified ad (for example, on Craigslist) promising you something if you advance them a certain amount of money? The word for this is advance-fee fraud. It's different from other email scams because it involves corresponding with an actual person—someone who is trying to trick or mislead you by sharing their "personal story," which is almost always false.

One of the most notorious examples of advance-fee fraud is the Nigerian letter scam.

Phishing

Phishing is a type of scam where an email pretends to be from a bank or another trusted source in order to trick you into handing over your personal information. Scammers can use this information to withdraw money fromyour bank account or steal your identity. A phishing email will often have a sense of urgency. For example, it may claim that "unauthorized charges" were made on your credit card and that you need to immediately verify your information.

Additional Tips and Resources

>Don't follow the link. It's easy for an email to use the logo from a legitimate company in order to look "official," but any link you click could take you to a shady site. Always type in the web address or click on one of your own bookmarks to go to your bank or other trusted websites.

>Report scams and spam. Some email service providers have a "This is Spam" button or another method for reporting spam. You can also contact the company being misrepresented and report the spam. Another option is to email a report of the spam to the Federal Trade Commission at spam@uce.gov.

>Get more information and learn about specific scams by visiting New Email Scams & Warnings from FBI.gov and Phishing from OnGuardOnline.gov.

Dealing with Email Attachments

Email attachments are especially dangerous because they can contain viruses and other malware. When you open the attachment, the malware can be automatically installed on your computer, and you may not even realize that anything has happened. Malware may damage files on your computer, steal your passwords, or spy on you, so it's important to be extra careful when you receive attachments.

Tips For Dealing With Attachments:

>Don't open any attachment that you weren't expecting. Even if an email looks like it's from someone you know, it may have been automatically sent to you by a virus. That's how many email viruses spread. If you receive an attachment from a friend, you should call or email them to verify that they meant to send it to you.

>Keep your antivirus software updated. Viruses can spread quickly, and if your antivirus software isn't upto-date, it may not be able to block new viruses.

>Keep your computer's firewall on. Firewall software helps to prevent people or malware from gaining access to your computer through the internet.

>Scan attachments for viruses before downloading. Many online email providers can scan attachments for viruses, and some will not let you download any attachment without scanning it.

[5] Staying Safe While Browsing

Most browsers have very similar security functions, although how you access these functions and what they are called can vary. For the purpose of our tutorial, we will focus on showing you features from Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox and Google Chrome. If you use the Safari or Opera internet browsers, many of these concepts will still apply.

Protecting Against Malicious Sites

Every browser has security features that protect you against visiting malicious sites that contain malware or phishing scams. When you visit a malicious site, your browser will display a red warning message. To learn how each browser screens and blocks these types of sites, choose from the following:

>Internet Explorer uses its SmartScreen Filter to block malicious websites. Go to our Internet Explorer 8 Security Lesson to learn about the SmartScreen Filter.

>Firefox displays a red warning message and blocks access to malicious websites. Go to Firefox Safe Web Browsing to learn more.

>Chrome uses a warning message, an extra security feature called sandboxing, and auto-updates to protect against malicious sites. Go to Google Chrome and Browsing Security to learn more

Keeping Your Browser Updated

New malware and phishing threats are constantly being introduced, so it is important to keep your browser updated. How do you do this?

1. Make sure you have the latest version of your browser. Your browser usually notifies you when it has a new version, but if you want to double-check, visit your browser's website. If your version is not the latest, then download the newer version.

2. Make sure you have installed all recent updates. Your browser also notifies you when it has updates. Ifyou think you have missed or ignored these updates, then locate the "Updates" option from your browsertoolbar and install any available updates.

Domain Checking

Malicious sites often use deceptive domains to trick users into believing they are on a legitimate site. Consider the example of www.bankofamerican.com. It should read www.bankofamerica.com, without the added "n". If you are about to download content, shop with a credit card or access your bank account, then you should carefully check the domain before continuing.

Verifying Secure Sites

Browsers have security features to help you check to make sure a site is secure for financial transactions.

Downloading Precautions

One of the easiest ways malware, spyware and adware can access our computers is through downloads. Therefore, we all need to take precautions when we download content to our computer, whether it is a software program, the latest pop song or a cool game we found. There are two things that provide the best defense against infected downloads: your computer's security programs and your own judgment. That's why it is important to make sure all your security programs are up-to-date and your firewall is turned on.

In addition, you can help by treating all downloads as suspicious until you determine they are safe. The following interactive offers various tips on how you can download content safely.

Understanding How Your Browsing Activity is Tracked

Did you know that your actions and what you click on may be tracked when you browse the internet?

If you are surprised, then you may be wondering why and how this is happening. Sometimes it is done for website efficiency, other times to collect data, and in some cases for spying or cyber-snooping. Here are a few examples:

>A website places a cookie on your computer to remember certain data, so that it may run smoother when you return to the site.

>Websites, like Amazon, eBay or Netflix, collect data about your preferences so they may make suggestions to you for products or movies they think you might like.

>Google tracks and analyzes activity to provide statistical data to companies. These companies may use this data for marketing, advertising or to analyze the effectiveness of a website.

>Sometimes by downloading a program or signing up for a website, we agree to allow the program or site to collect data that may be provided to third-parties for advertising.

>If we share a computer, other people can spy on our activity by reviewing the browsing history.

>Most malware or spyware is used to track and obtain sensitive information like credit card numbers and bank account passwords that can be used for identity theft crimes.

It is important to have an awareness of this tracking, in order to practice safe browsing habits based on the levelof privacy that you desire.

How to Keep Your Browsing Private

All browsers have privacy features for cookies, private browsing and deleting browsing history that you can use to manage your privacy based on your needs. For a tour of these features, choose from the following:

>Internet Explorer - Go to Videos for Internet Explorer and select the Security video for an overview tour.

>Firefox - Go to Firefox Safe Web Browsing for an overview of Firefox's privacy features.

>Chrome - Go to Explore the Chrome Browser to learn more about Chrome's security and privacy features.

How to Keep Your Browsing Private

All browsers have privacy features for cookies, private browsing and deleting browsing history that you can use to manage your privacy based on your needs. For a tour of these features, choose from the following:

>Internet Explorer - Go to Videos for Internet Explorer and select the Security video for an overview tour.

>Firefox - Go to Firefox Safe Web Browsing for an overview of Firefox's privacy features.

>Chrome - Go to Explore the Chrome Browser to learn more about Chrome's security and privacy features

Control Cookies

Many web sites add small text files to your computer called cookies. Cookies can help your computer communicate with a web server, but they can also be used to track your browsing activity. Every browser has tools for controlling, blocking and deleting cookies from your computer. By becoming familiar with these tools, you can help protect your information from being accessed. Be aware that completely blocking cookies may negatively impact your experience on certain web pages.

>Internet Explorer - Go to our Internet Explorer 8 Tutorial to learn how to access the cookie settings in Internet Explorer.

>Firefox - Go to Cookies to learn how to manage cookie settings in Firefox.

>Chrome - Go to Manage Cookies to learn how to manage, block and delete cookies in Chrome.

Use Private Browsing

Most browsers have a tool option that allows you to browse in private. When in private browsing mode, the following information will not be saved by the browser:

> Pages you visit will not be recorded to your history or address bar

> Cookies will be deleted at the end of the session

> The cache that stores temporary internet files will be emptied at the end of the session

> Forms, search bars and text boxes will not save the data you enter including passwords

> Downloads listed in your download window or folder will be deleted, although the download itself will remain on your computer

It is important to note that private browsing does not make you anonymous on the web. Websites can still track your visit and activity through your IP address.

>Internet Explorer - Go to our Internet Explorer 8 Tutorial to learn how to access private browsing in Internet Explorer.

>Firefox - Go to Private Browsing to learn how to access private browsing in Firefox.

>Chrome - Go to Incognito Mode to learn how to access private browsing in Chrome.

Delete Browsing History

Accessing your browsing history is one way a site or person can collect information about your online activity and preferences. The browsing history is a convenient feature that allows you to view and access sites that you have been to before. However, you may want to delete your browsing history for added privacy. Most browsers have options for customizing how much history you delete and if you are concerned about losing a site you like to visit, you can always bookmark the site or save it to your Favorites.

>Internet Explorer - Go to our Internet Explorer 8 Tutorial to learn how to delete browsing history in Internet Explorer.

>Firefox - Go to Clear Recent History to learn how to delete your browsing history in Firefox.

>Chrome - Go to Delete Browsing History to learn how to delete your browsing history in Chrome.

Additional Privacy Options

>Internet Explorer - Go to our Internet Explorer 8 Tutorial to learn about Internet Explorer's Content Advisor which allows you to block undesired websites.

>Internet Explorer - Go to our Internet Explorer 8 Tutorial to learn about Internet Explorer's InPrivate

Pop-Up Blocker

Pop-ups are small browser windows that automatically pop up when you visit certain sites. Pop-ups usually contain advertisements that can be annoying or objectionable. However, some pop-ups may contain malware; therefore it is important to make sure your browser's pop-up blocker is turned on.

Most browsers are set to block pop-ups by default, but if you want to check your settings to make sure, choose from the following:

>Internet Explorer - Go to our Internet Explorer 8 Tutorial to learn how to check pop-up blocker settings in Internet Explorer.

>Firefox - Go to Pop-up Blocker to learn how to check pop-up blocker settings in Firefox.

>Chrome - Go to Pop-ups to learn how to check pop-up blocker settings in Chrome.

If you do encounter a pop-up that seems suspicious, do not click "OK", "Cancel" or "Agree" to try and close the window, as this may access malware. Close the window by clicking the X in the upper-right corner or by pressing ALT+F4 on your keyboard (if you use Windows).

How to Clear Your Cache

Web browsers store pages, images and downloaded content to the cache when you visit sites. The browser can speed up access to sites by loading pages from the cache rather than re-downloading content when you return to a site. However, with high-speed internet connections you may not notice the difference. In addition, the cache can take up space over time causing your browser to slow down. Therefore, it is a good idea to clear the cache on a regular basis to help free space on your computer.

Clearing the cache can also protect your privacy as it deletes stored content and information from your browsing activity.

To learn how to clear the cache, choose from the following:

>Internet Explorer - To clear the cache in Internet Explorer, go to Delete Browsing History and make sure you select "Temporary Internet Files" (cache) to delete.

>Firefox - Go to Clear the Cache to learn how to clear the cache in Firefox which includes using "Clear Recent History" along with more advanced settings.

>Chrome - Go to Clear Browsing Data to learn how to clear data including the cache in Chrome.

[6] Protecting Your Financial Transactions

The internet has made banking, shopping and conducting other financial transactions online quite convenient. But when it comes to our money, we definitely want to make sure our transactions are safe.

In this lesson, we will review strategies you should employ when dealing with money and the internet. You will learn how to make sure a website is secure, including checking the SSL Security Certificate. In addition, we will show you the steps you need to take to make shopping online a safe and enjoyable experience.

When is a Website Secure for Financial Transactions?

Before sending any sensitive or financial information online, you want to know that you are communicating with a secure site. Secure sites make sure that all information you send is encrypted, or protected as it travels across the internet. The https address heading and your browser's security symbol are two signs that indicate you are on a secure site.

Https

Web addresses either begin with http or https. If the address is https then the information you send to it is encrypted and will look like gibberish if intercepted by cybercriminals.

Security Symbol

Your browser will use a security symbol or a lock to indicate that the browser verifies the website is a secure site. As seen in the examples below, the look of each browser's symbol can be slightly different, and it is usually located in the address bar.

Security Alerts and the SSL Certificate

SSL Certificate

Secure sites have an SSL certificate. An SSL certificate does two things. First, it acts like a virtual passport or driver's license. It means, "I am who I say I am." Second, it enables encryption. If a site does not have an SSL certificate, the address will begin with http instead of https, and your browser will not show a lock symbol. If it does have an SSL certificate, you can access it by double clicking on your browser's lock.

Security Alerts

Current versions of Internet Explorer, Firefox, and Chrome verify SSL certificates for you. They will alert you if the certificate is not up to date, or if it was not issued from a trusted certificate authority. To guarantee these alerts, make sure you are always running the most updated version of your browser. For more information on these alerts, choose from the following:

>Internet Explorer 8 uses a four-level color system to alert you about certificate validation. Go to our Internet Explorer 8 Security Lesson to learn more.

>Firefox verifies certification with its One-Click Site ID. Go to About One-Click Site ID to learn more.

>Chrome uses basic warning messages and some color-coded domain highlighting to alert you about certificates. Go to Security Settings to learn more.

What About Phishing?

Secure sites can protect your information from being intercepted by cybercriminals, but you also need to be aware that cybercriminals can contact you directly through phishing scams. Many phishing scams are made to look like official notices from your bank, credit card company or other financial institutions.

Cybercriminals can send official looking emails and create official looking websites pretending to be an organization you trust, in order to trick you into giving up credit card numbers and other account information.

Never respond to emails, pop-ups, text messages, or phone calls from your financial institutions asking for personal information. Always call them to verify if there is a problem.

Safe Online Shopping

Online shopping is a convenient way to shop and gives you access to products that may not be available to you locally. However, as with any online financial transaction, there is the potential for fraud. When using a shopping site, you should practice the normal safety precautions that include making sure a site is secure, carefully reading the terms of use and utilizing your security programs.

1. Research the Company of Seller

2. Closely Examine the Product

3. Understand the Terms and Costs

4. Pay with a Credit Card

5. Save and Print a Record of the Transaction

6. Enjoy Your Purchased

Additional Tips for Conducting Online Financial Transactions

>Leave No Trace

Consider always doing financial transactions in a private browsing session so that your browsing history, passwords and other private data will not be saved or accessible to anyone who uses the computer after you. Make sure to log off the website and close all browser windows when you are finished. And if possible, do not conduct any financial transactions from a public or shared computer or over a public wireless internet

connection.

>Be Careful with the Back Button

If you are making a purchase from an online store, the site has to gather and process information about your purchase. If you press the back button after you have entered information, it may cause the information to be sent again. Depending on the site, this could result in your credit card being charged twice. A similar thing could happen on a banking site if you press the back button while transferring funds.

If you accidentally press the back button, your browser will often ask you if you want to "send the form again," and you can click cancel to prevent it from re-sending.

[7] Smart Social Networking and Communication Tips

Social networking through sites like Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn is flourishing like never before and many of us have now become comfortable with communicating online. However, before we relax too much into this new way of interacting, we may need to take a closer look at the issues regarding safety and privacy in order to protect ourselves both online and off.

In this lesson, we will introduce current issues regarding privacy, in addition to providing strategies and tips for communicating safely and effectively while online. These tips will include how to set up a profile, what to consider before you share, what to do when you meet people face-to-face and how to practice good netiquette.

Social Networking and Privacy

Social networking and sharing on the web are taking off in ways that we may never have imagined. But along with all of the fun social aspects, come big questions about privacy.

Review the interactive to see why everyone should be aware of the consequences social networking may have on privacy.

Additional Resources

Go to Online Privacy & Technology from PrivacyRights.org for more information on how privacy is affected by technology.

Go to Can the law keep up with technology? from CNN.com to review an article on legal cases regarding online technology.

Setting Up Profiles on Social Networking Sites

Most social networking sites require you to set up a profile to join. Some profiles are simple and may only include a screen name and image, like when you join a website's discussion board. Other profiles, such as those on YouTube or Facebook pages, can give you a lot of freedom to be creative and elaborate. Review the interactive to learn how to safely represent yourself in a profile.

Don't forget to create a strong password, so no one can access your accounts.

Review Your Privacy Settings

Social networking sites have settings for privacy, but many people either do not customize them or do not understand how to do so. Facebook is a perfect example of a site with complicated settings that have the potential to expose a user's private information. So with all this confusion, how can you make sure your profile is protected?

>Carefully Review a Site's Privacy Policy

It is best to thoroughly review the privacy policy of any site that you join in order to understand how your information is being displayed and used. If the privacy policy is overwhelming and confusing, then conduct some research and see what kind of advice or tutorials are offered.

>Look for Advice or Tutorials

Conduct a search on how to set up a profile for the site that you are interested in. Often, there will be blogs or how-to tutorials that will uncover the things you really need to know about how to maintain your privacy on certain sites.

>Google Yourself

The best way to see how your profile is being displayed is to enter your name into a search on Google.

Netiquette Tips

In order to avoid awkward or negative experiences while communicating online, it is helpful to know the basics of netiquette. Netiquette refers to network etiquette for online communications and can be very helpful for beginners. Listed below are a few basic tips everyone should practice when communicating online.

>Be Respectful

Always treat others as you would like to be treated. A good rule of thumb is not to communicate anything online that you would not be willing to say to a person's face.

>Don't Be Too Quick to Take Offense

In online communication, we usually cannot see facial expressions, judge body language or hear tone of voice. Therefore, it is very easy to misinterpret the meaning of a message or post. Also, the technology itself tends to make us less personable. Before taking the offensive, clarify a message with the sender.

>Use Emoticons and Abbreviations to Convey Meaning

To convey tone, humor and meaning, learn common abbreviations, like "lol" (laugh out loud) or "jk" (just kidding), or use emoticons, such as :) or :( or =0. However, be careful not to overuse these symbols, otherwise your messages might become annoying or hard to read.

>Protect the Privacy of Others

As a courtesy, you should ask permission before posting photos or videos of others online. You should also protect the email addresses of others by deleting them from emails you forward.

>Check Your Spelling, Grammar and Language

Using incorrect spelling, poor grammar or offensive language is unpleasant to read and can cause people to portray you negatively. Spare a few moments to check your communication before sending it and avoid using foul or inappropriate language.

For a more extensive resource on netiquette, visit Albion.com or NetworkEtiquette.net. Also, keep in mind that the rules may vary for email, online chats, web forums, online gaming and other social networking outlets. It may be smart to search for specific rules pertaining to the particular outlet you are using.

Think Before You Share!

As we become more comfortable with communicating and sharing online, we still need

to keep in mind that what we post has the potential to get us into trouble. Something about the impersonal nature of technology makes us feel safe about writing or posting things that we would likely not say to an individual face-to-face. In some situations, we

definitely need to think before we hit send.

Consider the following examples:

>A teacher in North Carolina complained about her students on Facebook and ended up getting suspended and then reassigned to a different position. Think before you hit share, especially when posting comments about your job.

>A job candidate sent a scathing email when he was rejected for a position by a hiring manager. He may have been considered for a second opening, but instead he destroyed his chances. Think before you hit send, especially if you are upset, frustrated or angry.

>A politician in South Carolina used his work email account to send romantic messages to his lover. The messages were retrieved and published in the media causing great embarrassment. Think! Never post or write personal or inappropriate content in the accounts you use on the job. They are not considered private and any content belongs to the company and can be used against you.

>An administrative assistant takes a sick day and heads out to the beach for a day of fun. Unfortunately, her "tweets" about her great day at the beach get back to her boss. Think! Managers are now using social media more and more to catch employees participating in unprofessional behavior.

We tend to use online sharing for casual communication and socializing; therefore it's easy to become careless. Here's a good rule to keep in mind: Do not write or post anything you would not be comfortable sharing with an entire room full of people.

Precautions to Take When Meeting People Face to Face

As we get to know people online, there may be times when we want to meet them in person in the real world. It is extremely important that we take precautions before meeting face-to-face with someone from online. Criminals and fraudsters can easily fake their identities and pretend to be someone else while online in order to lure victims into meeting with them in person.

Protect Your Identity

Tell Someone

Research the Person

Meet in Public

Bring a Friend

Repeat Until Safe

You can also chat with a person on the phone before meeting them in person, but be careful to block your caller ID or use an anonymous phone service like Skype. Never use your home phone or give out your phone number as this information can be used to identify and locate you.

Warning Signs

Review the following tips to avoid running into trouble with people you meet face to face.

>Trust your instincts and pay attention when something doesn't feel right. Watch for "red flags" and questionable characteristics. Is the person too controlling? Do they talk badly about others? Do they avoid certain questions? Are they quick to get mad? Your gut instincts are a good measure of whether you should proceed with someone or end

things right away.

>Take your time and maintain control. At any time you feel uncomfortable, you have the right to walk away and end communications without any need to explain. Do not allow someone to persuade or badger you into moving forward before you are comfortable with doing so. If a person is genuine, then they will understand your need to take things slow.

>End things with someone who brings up "sex talk" too soon or asks about money. These people are almost always insincere and could end up scamming or harming you.

>Avoid drinking alcohol before or during your meeting, as this can impair your ability to judge another person and the safety of the circumstances.

Additional Resources

Go to these additional resources for online dating and online buying and selling:

> Online Dating Safety Tips from OnlineDatingMagazine.com

> 11 Safety Tips for Online Dating from iLookBothWays.com

> Safety Tips for Selling Things on the Internet from iLookBothWays.com

[8] Cyber-Harassment, Stalking and Addiction

Unfortunately, our use of the internet has the potential to turn ugly. As we integrate technology more and more in our lives, we need to be aware of the potential for cyber-harassment, stalking and internet addiction.

In this lesson, we will discuss how to prevent negative communications and how to respond to cyber-harassment and cyber-stalking. In addition, we will explore the aspects of internet addiction and provide resources for assessment and treatment.

The Negative Side to Communicating Online

Social networking can be a great way to communicate on a global level and a fun way to socialize and maintain relationships. However, this form of communication can have its negatives. The anonymous nature and open access of the internet allows for the potential to be exposed to offensive, derogatory and inappropriate communications. Usually, you can ignore this type of content or simply leave a page where you are being exposed to it.

However, there may be times when things suddenly escalate into the following:

>Flame Wars: heated arguments online where intentionally insulting statements and personal attacks become the focus of conversation

>Cyber-Harassment: any kind of harassment that happens online

>Cyber-Stalking: cyber-harassment that is ongoing, with the cyberstalker often using multiple online resources to harass the victim, such as emails, instant messages, and posts written on various message boards

Tips to Help Prevent Cyber-Harassment and Cyber-Stalking

Unfortunately, these experiences can create mental and emotional distress and have the potential to become harassment offline or in the "real world." While most sites have policies against such negative content, they are often limited in how they can respond and control it. Therefore, it is important to take the following precautions to prevent these circumstances from occurring in the first place.

>Avoid Getting Involved in Flame Wars

It is important to think before you share comments, especially if they are controversial, religious, political or disagreeing in nature. These types of posts have the potential to provoke a negative response and should be considered carefully.

>Avoid Using a Revealing Screen Name

Choose a screen name that is gender and age neutral, and that does not reveal your name, or any personal information about you. If you have a racy or attention-grabbing nickname, be aware that this may cause you to be the target of unwanted attention.

>Avoid Sharing Personal Information

Be extremely cautious about sharing any personal information online. The more someone knows about you, the easier it is to access you online and offline.

>Responding to Cyber-Harassment and Cyber-Stalking

If you do find yourself in a cyber-harassment or cyber-stalking situation, then there are specific steps you should take to respond. Review the interactive to learn the details of these steps.

Internet Addiction

Internet addiction is becoming a growing concern as more and more people are spending larger quantities of time online. Internet addiction is generally defined as a compulsive use of the internet and may include the unhealthy use of the following:

> Online gambling

> Online shopping including auction sites like eBay

> Online dating including online affairs

> Cyberporn and cybersex sites

> Social networking sites like Facebook and Twitter

> Online gaming

> Compulsive surfing of the web for entertainment and information

For some of us, spending a lot of time on the internet may seem like a necessity as we integrate technology with our daily work tasks, home life tasks and communications. But how can you tell when your internet use has shifted from normal to unhealthy?

If your use of the internet starts interfering with your life offline then there may be a problem. Signs include neglecting your work, relationships and daily responsibilities in order to spend time on the internet. In addition, if you have an extreme emotional response to the internet, like feeling anxious when you are offline and euphoric when you get back online, then you may need to seek help.

[9] Wireless and Mobile Device Safety

The days when we had to be tied to a desk in order to use the internet are long gone. With devices like the iPad and smartphones, along with the widespread availability of wireless signals, we can now access the internet from just about anywhere at anytime. So what precautions should we take while we are on-thego?

In this lesson, you will learn tips for securing your wireless network and mobile devices from internet threats, especially in Wi-Fi hotspots. You will learn how to practice mobile device courtesy. In addition, we will discuss strategies for using mobile devices while driving.

Wireless Network Security

If you are using a wireless network (also known as Wi-Fi) to access the internet, then you need to make sure it is secure; otherwise, all of your activity and information could be accessible to hackers and cybercriminals. Securing a wireless network can get very technical, so beginners may prefer to get help from their internet service provider (ISP). When setting up your wireless security, consider the following tips:

> Limit your signal strength so that it cannot be detected beyond the boundaries of your home.

> Disable SSID broadcasting so your network is not visible to other wireless users within its signal range.

> Use a strong password. You should choose a password or passphrase that's easy for you to remember, but hard for other people to guess.

> Enable MAC (Media Access Control) address filtering to prevent unauthorized wireless clients from breaking into your network.

> Make sure your network utilizes WPA (Wi-Fi Protected Access) or WPA2.

> If you use the older WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy) instead of WPA, then make sure to maximize the encryption.

Wi-Fi Hotspot Safety Tips

Being able to access the internet through Wi-Fi hotspots in coffee shops, hotels, airports, etc. can be quite convenient. However, these Wi-Fi hotspots are often not as secure as your home network. Review the following interactive to learn how to stay safe when connecting to a public network.

Mobile Device Safety

In recent years, mobile phones have become much more powerful, allowing you to browse the internet, check your email, download programs, and more. But these new abilities also mean there is a greater risk of viruses and other malware, as well as threats to your privacy. When using a mobile device, you should use the same caution that you

would use with a computer.

Tips for Avoiding Malware

Some companies, such as Norton and Kaspersky, offer antivirus software that can run on a mobile phone, but do your research as they may potentially slow down your phone's functions. Here are some tips to help you avoid malware on your mobile device.

>Keep your mobile phone updated. Check your phone manufacturer's website for instructions on downloading security updates.

>Be cautious when downloading programs or apps. A program or app could contain malware, so research it before downloading.

>Avoid "free offers" and "free ringtones." An email or instant message that offers software for download, such as a ringtone or security update, may contain malware.

>If something seems suspicious, trust your instincts.

Privacy on the Go

If privacy is important to you, you should pay close attention to the apps you install on your device. Always review their terms of service and privacy policy, so you know how they may or may not be using your information. You can also customize your privacy settings if the app gives you that option.

In addition, you should think back to privacy concerns that you've already learned about (for example, geolocation), and how they might affect your experience on a mobile device. This is especially important for social networking apps, and other apps that track your activity.

Wireless and Mobile Device Courtesy

With the new wireless capabilities and advanced mobile devices like the iPad and smartphones, we can communicate and access media almost anywhere and anytime. However, these new technologies are also becoming increasingly intrusive and can sometimes contribute to troublesome behavior. Disruptive ringtones, noisy conversations and rude texting can disrupt, annoy and anger others, leading to what is now being called

Cell Phone Rage.

Mobile Devices and Physical Safety

Distracted Driving

The number of accidents related to driving while talking, surfing and texting on mobile devices is increasing significantly. So why do the majority of us continue to participate in these activities, despite the overwhelming evidence of their dangers? Consider the following:

>We believe we can multi-task.

The brain is capable of engaging in more than one activity at a time if one of the activities is passive, or noninteractive, like driving and listening to music. However, our brains cannot participate in two interactive behaviors that require thinking and responding at the same time, like driving and dialing a phone number.

One activity is always being ignored for the other, thus exposing us to danger.

>We believe we are better drivers than others.

We may get upset with others for driving recklessly while talking on their cell phones, but we believe we are better drivers and can pull it off. In reality, we are not driving well either, but "inattention blindness" prevents us from noticing.

>We believe we have to respond.

In today's world of instant access, we believe we have to be constantly available; therefore, ignoring a phone call or text message may seem unheard of. Also, some of us get a little "rush of excitement" when we hear that ring or bing telling us we are wanted. Unfortunately, these emotional desires seem to overrule the reasonable side of our brain that cautions us to be safe.

For your safety, as well as the safety of others, review the interactive to learn how to stay safe while using mobile devices and driving. Accidents from distracted walking are also on the rise. For many of the same reasons as listed above, walking and engaging with a mobile device can also prove harmful to your health.

Cell Phone Radiation and Cancer

Interest and debate regarding cell phones and their link to cancer, particularly brain cancer, is on the rise due to increasing research. Cell phones, as well as other wireless devices, emit low-frequency "non-thermal" radiation that is considered the cause of the cancer. At this time, the World Health Organization, American Cancer Society, National Cancer Institute, and Food and Drug Administration have all found that the use of cell

phones do not pose a public health risk. However, they do support continued research on the subject, especially in regard to long-term exposure.

[10] Links to Resources for Internet Safety

General Internet safety websites and resources

>WiredSafety.org, an extensive global resource on Internet safety

>OnGuardOnline.gov, maintained by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and includes

games, videos, and information on various topics

>NetLingo.com, for the latest Internet terms and text and chat acronyms

>Reputation.com, to remove personal information from websites

>StrongPasswordGenerator.com, to create stronger passwords

Independent reviewers of software programs

>CNET.com

>TopTenReviews

Email scams, spam, and phishing

>Email Scams from FBI.gov

>Email and Web Scams: How to Protect Yourself from Microsoft.com

>Phishing from OnGuardOnline.gov

>Spam Blocker Software from FireTrust.com

Browsing security

>P2P Security from OnGuardOnline.gov

>Safe Downloads from CNET.com

>Internet Explorer download page, for information on IE's privacy features

>Firefox's Privacy Page, for an overview tour of Firefox's privacy features

>Explore the Chrome Browser, to learn more about Chrome's privacy features

Online banking, shopping, selling, and other financial transactions

>Online Shopping from OnGuardOnline.gov

>SafeShopping.org from the American Bar Association

>Better Business Bureau Online, for researching businesses

>Safety Tips for Selling Things on the Internet from iLookBothWays.com

Online dating

>Online Dating Safety Tips from OnlineDatingMagazine.com

>11 Safety Tips for Online Dating from iLookBothWays.com

Social networking

>Online Privacy & Technology from PrivacyRights.org (how privacy is affected by technology)

>Albion.com and NetworkEtiquette.net, for resources on Netiquette

Internet addiction

>NetAddiction.com

>Internet Addiction Test from NetAddiction.com

>Other Self Tests for Internet-Related Addictions from NetAddiction.com

>Internet Addiction - Signs, Symptoms, Treatment, and Self-Help from HelpGuide.org

Wireless and mobile device safety

>Wireless-Safety.org, for information on securing a wireless network

>MobileBeyond.net, for an article on the cell phone and brain cancer debate

>Hotspot Location Resources from GoDISH.com, for a list of articles about Wi-Fi radiation, >wireless security, and other wireless hotspot information.

Chapter 3. WebPage & JavaScritpt

[HTML Basic]

All HTML documents must start with a type declaration: <!DOCTYPE html>.

The HTML document itself begins with <html> and ends with </html>.

The visible part of the HTML document is between <body> and </body>.

<!DOCTYPE html>

<html>

<body>

<h1>My First Heading</h1>

<p>My first paragraph.</p>

</body>

</html>

HTML headings are defined with the <h1> to <h6> tags:

<h1>This is a heading</h1>

<h2>This is a heading</h2>

<h3>This is a heading</h3>

HTML links are defined with the <a> tag:

<a href="http://www.daegu.ac.kr">Daegu University</a>

HTML images are defined with the <img> tag.

The source file (src), alternative text (alt), and size (width and height) are provided as attributes:

<img src="w3schools.jpg" alt="W3Schools.com" width="104" height="142">

<WebPage Sample>

<html>

<head>

<title>

My First Web Homepage

<!-- 웹페이지 제목 -->

</title>

</head>

<body bgcolor=pink text=yellow link=blue vlink==yellow alink=red>

<!-- background="mypicture.gif" &gt;특수기호&lt; -->

<p>

<!-- p는 한줄건너띄기, br은 줄바꿈 -->

<a name="top">

<!-- name tag는 페이지에서 이동위치를 지정한다 -->

<h3>This is <p>the top of <br>this page

<!-- h는 제목의 글씨크기를 지정하며, 값은 1~7까지이다 -->

<p>

<font size=3>글자크기 조절 1~7까지</font>

<p>

<!-- 특수기호의 표기

1. 사이띄기-  &nbsp; or &#32;

2. < -  &lt; or &#60;

3. > -  &gt; or &#62;

4. & -  &amp; or &#38;

5. " -  &quot; or &#34;

6. - -  &shy; or &#45;

-->

<P>

<center><a href="http:/www.naver.com">Naver</a><p>

<a href="mailto:sunkim@daegu.ac.kr">편지보내세요</a></center>

<!-- img src=".../... .gif" align=center 는 그림부르기와 위치정하기 -->

<p>

<hr width=50% size=5 color=red align=left>

<p>

<pre>

<-- 미리 포맷된 문단  사용하기 -->

1. Bullet List

2. Number List

3. Definition LIst

</pre>

<b>List</b>

<b>1. Bullet LIst</b>

<ul>

<li>문헌정보

<li>심리

<li>사회복지

</ul>

<ul type=square>

<li>문헌정보

<li>심리

<li>사회복지

</ul>

<ul type=circle>

<li>문헌정보

<li>심리

<li>사회복지

</ul>

<ul type=disc>

<li>문헌정보

<li>심리

<li>사회복지

</ul>

<b>2. Complex Bullet LIst</b>

<ul type=square>

<li>문헌정보

<li>심리

<ul type=circle>

<li>사회복지

<li>신문방송

<ul type=disc>

<li>철학

<li>역사

</ul>

</ul>

</ul>

<b>2. Number LIst</b>

<ol>

<li>문헌정보

<ol type=i>

<li>심리

</ol>

<ol type=I>

<li>사회복지

</ol>

</ol>

<p>

<ol type=1>

<li>문헌정보

<ol type=A>

<li>심리

</ol>

<ol type=a>

<li>사회복지

</ol>

</ol>

<p>

<b>3. Definition LIst</b>

<dl>

<dt>문헌정보학이란?

<dd>문헌연구를 기초로 지적 자유의 완성을 추구하는 학문이다

<dt>심리학이란?

<dd>인간의 정신세계를 과학적으로 규명하는 학문이다

</dl>

<p>

<hr width=80% size=5 color=purple align=center>

<p>

<div align=right><a href="#top">top으로 가기</a></div>

</body>

</html>

[JavaScript]

[Sample 1]

<!DOCTYPE html>

<html>

<body>

<h1>My First JavaScript</h1>

<p>Click Date to display current day, date, and time.</p>

<button type="button" onclick="myFunction()">Date</button>

<p id="demo"></p>

<script>

function myFunction() {

document.getElementById("demo").innerHTML = Date();

}

</script>

</body>

</html>

[Sample 2]

<!DOCTYPE html>

<html>

<body>

<p id="p1">Please locate where 'locate' occurs!.</p>

<button onclick="myFunction()">Try it</button>

<p id="demo"></p>

<script>

function myFunction() {

var str = document.getElementById("p1").innerHTML;

var pos = str.indexOf("locate");

document.getElementById("demo").innerHTML = pos;

}

</script>

</body>

</html>

1) Writing Into HTML Output

<!DOCTYPE html>

<html>

<body>

<p>

JavaScript can write directly into the HTML output stream:

</p>

<script>

document.write("<h1>This is a heading</h1>");

document.write("<p>This is a paragraph.</p>");

</script>

<p>

You can only use <strong>document.write</strong> in the HTML output.

If you use it after the document has loaded (e.g. in a function), the whole document will be overwritten.

</p>

</body>

</html>

2) Reacting to Events

<button type="button" onclick="alert('Welcome!')">Click Me!</button>

* The alert() function is not much used in JavaScript, but it is quite handy for trying out code.

* The onclick event is only one of the many HTML events you will learn about in this tutorial.

3) Changing HTML Content

<p id="demo">

JavaScript can change the content of an HTML element.

</p>

<script>

function myFunction()

{

x=document.getElementById("demo");  // Find the element

x.innerHTML="Hello JavaScript!";    // Change the content

}

</script>

<button type="button" onclick="myFunction()">Click Me!</button>

* You will often see document.getElementById("some id"). This is defined in the HTML DOM. The DOM (Document Object Model) is the official W3C standard for accessing HTML elements.

4) Changing HTML Images

<script>

function changeImage()

{

element=document.getElementById('myimage')

if (element.src.match("bulbon"))

{

element.src="pic_bulboff.gif";

}

else

{

element.src="pic_bulbon.gif";

}

}

</script>

<img id="myimage" onclick="changeImage()"

src="pic_bulboff.gif" width="100" height="180">

<p>Click the light bulb to turn on/off the light</p>

Chapter 4. Social Media

BEYOND EMAIL:

[1] All About Online Communication

Introduction

In the past, email was the best way to communicate with people online. But today, there are many different ways to talk online, allowing you to do things like:

> Make phone calls from your computer and even see the person you're talking with.

> Share with lots of friends at the same time without sending an email to each of them individually.

> Engage with different websites by making comments or posting your own content.

Over the next several lessons, we'll take a look at some different methods of online communication, including chat, video calling, text messages, status updates, and more.

How People Communicate Online

When people are not online, they use a variety of communication methods, including phone calls, written letters, and face-to-face conversation. We use these different methods depending on the situation. Online communication is very similar: people may use instant messaging, video chat, or social networking depending on the situation. You can choose whichever methods best fit your needs.

Staying Safe Online

No matter how you communicate online, you'll need to think about privacy and safety. Each service that we'll discuss has its own privacy settings. It's helpful to review these settings before using any service to avoid revealing your conversations and personal information to a broader audience.

Act as if you were communicating offline: remember, everything you write online is relatively permanent, so even passing comments could have negative consequences for you or someone else in the future.

We recommend that you visit our Internet Safety tutorial for more information about staying safe online.

[2] Chat and Instant Messaging

Chat and instant messaging (IM) are short messages sent and read in real time, allowing you to converse more quickly and easily than email.

Chat and IM are generally used when both (or all) people are online, so your message can be read immediately. By comparison, an email message won't be seen until the recipient checks their email, meaning that chat and IM are better for quick messages and conversations

Chat vs. IM

The terms chat and IM are sometimes used interchangeably. However, they can have slightly different meanings:

> Chat often occurs in a virtual chat room, which can include many different people who may or may not know each other. Many chat rooms focus on a particular topic or interest.

> IM usually includes a list of your contacts, called a Buddy List or Friend List, which allows you to see who is online. IM is especially suited for one-on-one communication, but it's possible to send messages to multiple people at once. IM is technically a kind of chat, and some IM services use the term "chat" instead

Pros and Cons of Instant Messaging

Will chat or IM work for your needs? Review some of the pros and cons to help decide:

Pros:

> It's instant; you don't need to wait for the other person to check their email.

> It's great for quick messages, questions, or notifications.

> Compared to email, it's easier to carry on a conversation (or even multiple

conversations).

Cons:

> If someone is not online, you may have to contact them another way.

> It's not as convenient as email for lengthy or complicated messages.

> It's not always instantaneous: if your friends are busy or away from the computer, it may take a while for them to respond.

> Since people may type quickly or use abbreviations, messages could be hard to

understand. Also, as with email, it's possible to misinterpret someone's tone.

Where to Find Chat and IM Services

There are numerous chat and IM programs you can download, including Skype, ICQ, AOL Instant Messenger (AIM), and Yahoo! Messenger (all of these can also perform voice and video chat). In addition, there are many browser-based services that don't require downloading. For example, Facebook and Gmail allow you to chat with your contacts whenever you're signed in.

If you have a smartphone or mobile device, it's possible to use chat or IM when you're away from your computer. Popular mobile chat services include IMO and eBuddy.

If you want to know more about using chat and instant messaging, we have tutorials on the following:

> Facebook 101 - Chat and Video Calling

> Skype - Instant Messaging with Skype

> You can stay logged in while doing other things on your computer, which makes it easy to multitask.

[3] Online Phone Calls

It's easy to make free or inexpensive phone calls to almost anywhere in the world using your computer. You don't even necessarily need a super-fast internet connection. Many IM and chat services include voice chat, which lets you talk to your friends who are online.

Some services go a step further, allowing you to call any phone number and even providing you with a phone number for others to call. As these services are often very inexpensive, some people use them to replace their traditional, or landline, phone service altogether.

You may have heard the term VoIP (pronounced "voyp"), which stands for Voice over Internet Protocol. VoIP can be used to describe any kind of online phone service.

Hardware and Software Requirements.

In order to make phone calls from your computer, you'll need a microphone and speakers, or better yet, a headset with a microphone. If your computer has a built-in microphone and speakers, you may be able to use those instead. There are also adapters that will let you connect a regular phone to your computer or your router.

Different services will have their own hardware and software requirements, but most computers from the last few years will have more than enough processing power. In addition, a broadband internet connection is recommended, but may not be required.

Pros and Cons of Online Phone Service

Will an online phone service work for your needs? Review some of the pros and cons to help decide:

Pros:

> Some services are free or very inexpensive.

> Unlike chat or email, you can actually talk to someone.

> You can use it as a replacement for your landline, or just to save minutes on your mobile phone.

> It's possible to set up a conference call (or group chat) with multiple people.

Cons:

> Compared to IM or chat, it's harder to carry on several conversations at once.

> Unlike a traditional phone, it won't work if the power goes out.

> Some features, like the ability to call phones, may cost extra.

> You may need to purchase a microphone, speakers, or headset if you don't already

own these.

> On slower internet connections, it may not work at all or be unreliable.

> Most online phone services cannot be used to make emergency calls.

Where to Find Online Phone Services

There are numerous online phone services, but some of the most popular include Skype, Google Talk (which can also run within Gmail), Google Voice, and Yahoo! Messenger. Skype is especially flexible, as it allows you to choose from various levels of service, which range from free to paid subscriptions.

Be aware that some services only allow you to voice chat with other users of the same service, and don't permit you to call phone numbers or get your own number. Before you start using an online phone service, make sure that it provides all the features you need.

If you are interested in using online phone chat, we have tutorials on the following:

> Skype - Making Calls with Skype

[4] Video Chat and Group Calls

Video chat allows you to see and hear the people you're communicating with in real time. Whether you're talking with a family member or collaborating at work, video chat can add a personal touch to your conversations. Just like voice chat, it's included in many IM and chat services, and it's often free.

Hardware and Software Requirements

Like voice chat, you'll need a microphone and speakers, or a headset that contains both. You'll also need a webcam so the other person can see you. Many computers have a built-in webcam, usually located just above the screen. There are also inexpensive webcams that connect to your computer's USB port, which can be purchased at any store that sells computer hardware and electronics.

Generally, video chat will require a broadband internet connection. The faster your internet connection, the better the video quality. With slower connections, the video can become choppy or may not work at all.

Group Video Chat

With some services, it's possible to video chat with multiple people. This is often called group video chat or video conferencing, while the meeting itself is often called a webinar (short for web seminar). It's often used in the workplace, but you can use it anytime you want to collaborate with a group. However, you should be aware that some services charge extra for this feature, and it may require a faster internet connection.

If you're giving a presentation, you can even share your screen with the people you're talking to. That means they'll see exactly what you're seeing on the screen, whether it's a PowerPoint presentation, a photo, or a spreadsheet. Screen sharing is also useful if you're having a problem with your computer, as it can help others see and identify the issue.

Pros and Cons of Video Chat

Will video chat work for your needs? Review some of the pros and cons to help decide:

Pros:

> You can see the person you're talking with.

> Many voice chat services are free, and may be included with your IM or chat program.

> It's possible to chat with multiple people at once.

Cons:

> You may need to buy a webcam and headset if you don't already own them.

> It may not work with slower internet connections.

> Even though you can see the person, it's not the same as talking face-to-face. Due to the camera angle and picture quality, you may find it a bit awkward or unflattering.

Where to Find Video Chat Services

There are a variety services that provide voice chat. The most well-known service is Skype, but others include:

> Yahoo! Messenger

> Google Talk

> Google Hangouts

> Facebook Video Calling

> Apple FaceTime

> ooVoo

If your friends and family already use voice chat, you may want to ask them which service they use so you can sign up for the same one.

[5] Text Messages

You've probably heard people talk about text messaging, or texting. Text messages are

short messages (usually 160 characters or fewer) sent from one mobile phone to another.

It's similar to instant messaging, except that you won't need to log in—you'll just send messages directly from your phone.

Typically, texting is not free, although your mobile carrier probably offers service packages that include a certain number of texts per month (or even unlimited texts). If you don't have a texting plan, you'll generally be charged whenever you send or receive a text message.

Text messaging is also known as SMS, which stands for Short Message Service.

Why Text?

Many people ask the same question: "Why would I send a text message when I could just call the person?" One of the main reasons is that it's faster, at least for short messages. It can easily take several minutes to "send" your message with a phone call. With a text message, the same message could be sent with a text in just a few seconds.

There are also times when it's not really possible to call someone, like if you're at a meeting, or in class, or any other place where you're not able to talk easily. Texting is often the best alternative in these situations.

Do note that typing on a mobile phone tends to be slower than typing on a computer. To speed things up, people often use abbreviations and acronyms. If you're not familiar with these abbreviations, it can be difficult to understand some text messages. To see some of the most common acronyms, check out the Top 50 Popular Text & Chat Acronyms.

Texting Without a Mobile Phone

Text messages are designed to be sent from one mobile phone to another. However, there are some websites, such as textem.net, which allow you to send a text message from a computer to a mobile phone.

This can be especially helpful if you don't use texting on your phone but need to contact someone who does.

Pros and Cons of Text Messaging

Will text messages work for your needs? Review some of the pros and cons to help decide:

Pros:

> Texts can be sent and received with almost any mobile phone—not just smartphones.

> They are great for quick messages, especially if you are away from a computer.

> The other person will see your message either immediately, or the next time they look at their phone.

> It's possible to send text messages from a computer to a mobile phone.

Cons:

> Text messages generally cost money, unless they are included in your mobile phone plan. Also, the recipient may also be charged when they read the message.

> The 160-character limit makes text messages unsuitable for longer messages.

> Unless your mobile phone has a full keyboard, it may take a long time to type your message.

[6] Direct Messages

Many websites allow you to send direct messages: private messages sent from one person to another. In many ways, direct messaging is very similar to email, but with a few important distinctions:

> It has fewer features than email.

> It's only used to communicate with other people who use the same website.

> You don't get your own email address, which means that you can't really use direct messages as a replacement for email.

When Are Direct Messages Used?

Direct messages are often used when email is not an option. For example, an eBay seller may keep their email address private, but you can always contact them through eBay's direct message feature. Direct messages allow both parties to communicate without sharing their email addresses. For convenience, you can usually have direct messages forwarded to your email address.

There are two main types of websites where you might use direct messages:

>Online stores: If you have a question about an item, you might send the seller a direct

message. This is especially common on websites like eBay and Etsy where items are

sold by regular people, not retailers.

>Social networking sites: websites like Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn let you send

direct messages to other users. This allows you to send a private message without posting it to a public profile.

Pros and Cons of Direct Messaging

Will direct messages work for your needs? Review some of the pros and cons to help decide:

Pros:

> Your contact info stays private. Neither person has to reveal their email address.

> You can send private messages that are only visible to the recipient.

> It gives you an alternate way to contact friends if you lose their email addresses.

> It's included with sites you may already use, such as eBay, Facebook, and Twitter.

Cons:

> Like email, it may take a long time for the other person to see your message.

> It can't really be used as a replacement for email and its usage is more limited.

Where to Find Direct Messaging

There are many websites that offer direct messaging features, including:

> eBay

> Etsy

> Facebook

> Twitter

> LinkedIn

[7] Social Posts, Status Updates and Tweets

Imagine that you're at a party. You might be talking to one person, or a small group of people, but other people can join the conversation. This is basically how social networking sites work. Conversations are more open and public, which can provide a richer social experience than other forms of online communication

Communicating in a Social Network

Once you've joined a social network, you can start posting your thoughts, questions, pictures, links, videos, or anything else you'd like to share. These are called social posts because they are visible to other people, unlike direct messages or email. Posts will appear on your activity feed, which is visible to your friends on the site.

Social posts are known by many different names, but they are most commonly called status updates. You can use status updates to let your friends know what you're doing or to say what's on your mind. Some social networking sites have unique names for their social posts. For example, on Twitter a post is called a tweet, while a post on Pinterest is known as a pin.

Pros and Cons of Social Networking

Will social posts work for your needs? Review some of the pros and cons to help decide:

Pros:

> You can communicate with lots of people at the same time.

> It's easy to post your thoughts, pictures, links, and more.

> It provides a richer social experience than email or instant messaging.

> You can stay in touch with people who live far away or who you don't see often.

Cons:

> If you have friends who use a different social networking site (or don't use any at all), they won't see your social posts.

> You can accidentally post sensitive information that will be seen by many different people.

> Things that you post may be permanent, so you have to be careful not to post things that could harm your reputation in the future.

> Some sites have complex privacy options, which may be a bit confusing to set.

Where to Find Social Posts

There are many websites that include social posting features, including:

> Facebook

> Twitter

> Pinterest

> LinkedIn

> Meetup

> YouTube

[8] Likes, Comments, and Sharing

One of the great things about the internet today is that anybody can join the conversation. Instead of just reading web pages, you can engage and share things you find with your friends.

Whether you're reading a news article, watching a YouTube video, or shopping for a great deal, there's a good chance you'll be able to add a comment or use a Social Plug-in to post it to your social networks.

Leaving Feedback with Social Plug-ins

If you're viewing something online, you may notice buttons with the Facebook or Twitter logos. These are called Social Plug-ins, and they're designed to let you give feedback on a web page. When you Like, recommend, or tweet a web site, a link to that page will be posted on your profile, allowing you to share that site with all your friends at the same time.

While Facebook and Twitter tend to be the most common Social Plug-ins, there are many others you can use. There is often a "Share" button you can click to see more options.

Depending on the website, you may be able to share content in the following ways:

> Reddit and StumbleUpon allow you to post and vote for websites you like, which is similar to Liking a page on Facebook.

> Some sites have a +1 button, which is Google Plus's version of the Like button.

> Pin the link on a Pinterest board.

> You can email an article or link to someone.

You can even Like, tweet or +1 lessons on GCFLearnFree.org! These buttons are located near the top of each lesson page.

Sharing and Comments

People use comments to give feedback, ask questions, or just continue the conversation.

Comments sections often appear at the bottom of a page or article. Not all web pages have comments, but they're especially common on blogs, news sites, video sites like YouTube, and image hosting sites like Flickr.

When viewing or posting comments, be aware that some people intentionally try to start arguments (often called flame wars) by posting outrageous or offensive comments. These people are known as trolls or cyber-bullies. While it may be tempting to respond to these comments, it's usually best to ignore them.

Pros and Cons of Comments and Plug-ins

Wondering if you should start adding comments and using Social Plug-ins? Review some of the pros and cons to help decide:

Pros:

> Interacting with the things you see on the web provides a better online experience than

just reading web pages.

> You can easily provide feedback on a page by telling the author what you think or

adding information that may be useful to other people.

> When you find something that you like, you can share it with your friends, whether it's a product, article, video, or other website.

Cons:

> Trolls and cyber-bullies may add negative or offensive comments.

> Things that you post may be permanent, so you have to be careful not to post things that could harm your reputation in the future.

> With Social Plug-ins, it's possible for companies to track your browsing to collect data

about your preferences.

[9] Blogging

Have you ever wanted to create your own magazine or newsletter? Would you like to promote your home-based business or build your personal brand? Have you always wanted to create your own website, but didn't know how? Today it's possible to do these things by creating a blog (short for weblog). Best of all, it's free and relatively easy.

Many blogs focus on a particular topic or interest, for example: music, cooking, technology, or parenting. Others are less structured and cover a variety of topics.It's easy to find a professional design for your blog, even if you don't know much about building a webpage.

Different Types of Blogs

You don't necessarily have to be a writer to create a blog. Some blogs focus on a particular type of media, such as video or photos, instead of having full-fledged articles. Others have shorter posts, which won't require as much writing and may be less time-consuming. Below are some common types of blogs:

> Video blog: Also known as a vlog, this is a type of blog composed mainly of videos. Many YouTube channels are classified as video blogs.

> Photoblog: This is a blog that is mostly photos, with or without descriptions.

> Microblog: A microblog consists of very short posts. Status updates are a form of microblogging.

Twitter and Tumblr are two of the most popular microblogging services.

Blogging Privacy

It's important to remember that blogging is a public form of online communication. Generally, anyone in the world can view your posts and your profile. That means you should be extra careful not to post sensitive information. Additionally, posting things that reflect negatively on you (such as derogatory or offensive content) could seriously affect your personal and professional reputation.

Pros and Cons of Blogging

Thinking about starting a blog? Review some of the pros and cons to help decide:

Pros:

> It gives you an opportunity to write about things that matter to you.

> Your blog can be read by people all over the world.

> A blog is much easier to set up than a regular website.

> You can choose a design and layout that you like.

Cons:

> It can be time-consuming, especially if you post frequently.

> You'll need to avoid posting sensitive information, since it can be viewed by anyone.

> Writing derogatory or offensive content could harm your reputation.

Where to Find Blogging Services

There are many websites that allow you to create a free blog. Here are a few of the most popular ones:

> WordPress

> Blogger

> Tumblr

BLOG BASICS

[1] Introduction

Chances are, you've heard about blogging. You may have heard a story about a blogger uncovering information about a politician or controversial subject. Maybe you've even read a book or seen a movie based on a blog. What exactly is a blog, anyway?

In this lesson, you'll learn about blogs and bloggers. You'll also get a look at a few common types of blogs, and explore the reasons why people blog.

What is a Blog?

A blog is a type of website that is updated regularly with new content. Most blogs contain short, informal articles called blog posts. These posts usually contain some combination of text, photos, videos, and other media. At its core, a blog is just a space on the web that you can create to record and express your opinions, experiences, and interests.

If you spend much time browsing the web, you've probably read a blog post before, even if you didn't realize it at the time. Some of the most-read blogs are a bit like online magazines, as they're written by a team of people who are paid to update the blog with new posts several times a day.

However, the majority of blogs are written by one person. As a result, the average blog is fairly personal, reflecting the interests and personality of the person who writes it. This is the type of blog we'll focus on in this tutorial.

Who Blogs?

The people who write blogs are called bloggers. From what you hear on the news, you might think that bloggers are all a certain type of people—all very young, politically-inclined, and tech-savvy. Or maybe you've heard about

bloggers who've written about amazing experiences or ambitious projects, then turned their blogs into bestselling books. While some bloggers do fit these descriptions, the majority of bloggers don't. In fact, there's no "average" blogger—blogs are written by people of all ages and backgrounds, from all walks of life.

Why Blog?

As you saw in the infographic on the last page, most bloggers consider blogging a hobby. It can be a fairly timeconsuming hobby, as many bloggers spend several hours a week writing blog posts, replying to comments, and

more. So why do they do it?

For their State of the Blogosphere 2011 Report, the people behind Technorati.com conducted a survey of over 4,000 bloggers. Here are some of the most common responses bloggers gave when asked why they blog:

> To share my experiences and expertise

> To speak up about an issue I care about

> To become more involved with my hobbies and passions

> To be part of a community

> To advance my career or start a career in writing

> To keep my family and friends updated about my life

No matter what their main reason for blogging is, most bloggers have at least one thing in common: they're passionate enough about a topic to write about it over and over again, usually for free. If there's a subject you care deeply about, you might enjoy blogging about it. When you have your own blog, you have unlimited space and freedom to express your opinions and discuss the things that you care about with others.

Blogging for Money

Another reason why some people blog is to earn money. People earn money from their blogs by hosting advertisements, selling products, or publishing their blog posts in the form of a book or printed articles.

The media often reports on bloggers who have done this successfully, turning their blogs into a career, or even a book deal or movie. While it's fine to try to earn money from blogging, you should be aware that these success

stories are very rare.

You may see advertisements for services that promise to help you make your blog profitable with little effort.

However, making money this way is not as easy as it may seem. Many bloggers write for years without ever earning a cent from their blog. Keep this in mind as you begin blogging.

What Do People Blog About?

A blog can be about literally anything. There are people blogging about every topic imaginable, from their political views to their pets. Think of any interest or hobby, no matter how unusual or specialized—there's bound to be a whole community of blogs devoted to discussing it. Although it's impossible to list all of the subjects people blog about, there are certain topics that are commonly covered.

[2] Subscribing to Blogs

Reading a large variety of blogs can be a great way to learn about new things, be entertained, or get news from a certain perspective. The more blogs you read, the more difficult it can be to keep up with them all. Fortunately, you can easily keep up with a large number of blogs by subscribing to the ones you read most.

In this lesson, we'll discuss the advantages of subscribing to the blogs you read. We'll also provide a list of several popular RSS readers, which you can use to set up blog subscriptions.

All About Subscribing to Blogs

When you subscribe to a blog, you get all of its new posts and updates delivered to you. You subscribe to blogs using an RSS reader, which is a tool that

lets you read posts from multiple blogs on one page.

There are many advantages to subscribing to your favorite blogs:

> It saves time. You won't have to check multiple blogs each day to see if they've added new posts.

>You won't miss any updates. It's easy to miss some posts if you don't visit a particular blog very often. When you subscribe to a blog, every single one of its posts is sent to your RSS reader. Even if you don't check your reader for a week, the posts you haven't read will still be there, waiting for you.

>It creates a feed of stories interesting to you. You'll be able to read posts on many topics and from various blogs, all in one place. It's like having a newspaper written just for you. Many RSS readers even recommend blogs similar to the ones you subscribe to, so you'll always have something to read.

Choosing an RSS Reader

There are many RSS readers to choose from. If you're just getting started, you might want to try one of the RSS readers below. They're all simple and easy to use, even if you've never subscribed to a blog before.

> Feedly

> Digg

> Feedspot

If you have a smartphone or tablet, you could also try one of the news reader apps below. News reader apps aren't much different from traditional RSS readers, but they're designed specifically to be used on mobile devices. These apps collect, or aggregate, content from major blogs and news sites. They can also be used to subscribe to any blog with an RSS feed.

> Flipboard

> Pulse

> Google Currents

[3] Developing Your Blog

Starting a new blog might seem a little overwhelming at first, but planning some things ahead of time can make the whole process a lot easier. In this lesson, you'll learn how to develop a new blog. You'll make decisions about:

> Your blogging goals

> The topic you want to blog about

> How much time you want to spend blogging

> How much personal information you wish to share on your blog

> Your blog's design

As you read the lesson, you may wish to refer to our Developing Your Blog worksheet. It will help you keep track of your blogging goals and decisions

Identifying Your Blogging Goals

The first step to developing your blog is to know your blogging goals. The two main questions to consider in

order to understand your goals are:

> What's the main reason you want to start a blog?

> Who do you want to read your blog?

The main reason you want to start blogging is your primary goal. However, most people have more than one reason for blogging. These extra reasons are your secondary goals. Examining your primary goal and your desired audience can help you identify your secondary goals.

For example, as you can see from the image above, Jessie's primary goal is to keep her friends and family updated about her kids. However, the blog's not just for those people—she says she'd also like for other moms to read her blog. So, one of her secondary goals might be:

> Meet new people and be part of a community of moms who blog

If she's interested in having a lot of people read her writing, she might also have this common secondary goal:

> Become a better writer.

In short, anything that motivates you to blog, no matter how minor, can be one of your blogging goals. As you develop your blog, keeping your goals in mind will help you decide exactly what you want your blog to be like.

Defining Your Blog's Topic

One of the biggest factors in your blog's success is having a topic you find interesting. After all, blogging is something you'll be doing in your spare time, so how much you write will largely depend on how much you enjoy it. Having a topic you like will make keeping up with your blog easier and more rewarding.

One way to test whether or not you've chosen a good topic is to think of potential posts that fit that topic. You may even want to make a list, like Elena's list in the graphic on the right.

Remember, you don't have to commit to writing any of the posts that you come up with. You're just exploring your topic to see if you're interested in it enough to blog about it long-term. If you have trouble coming up with ideas for posts, you may want to reconsider or adjust your topic.

Narrowing Down Your Topic

If you chose to write about a broad topic, you might consider narrowing it down to a smaller one. This can help you keep focused on the topics you're most interested in. It may also make your blog stand out from other, more

general blogs.

One way to narrow down your blog's focus is to think of subjects that fall within the scope of your overall topic.

These subjects are potential sub-topics. Are there any that particularly interest you, or seem like they'd be easy to write about? You might consider focusing mainly on one or two of those sub-topics.

Writing About Multiple Topics

Some people prefer to blog without limiting themselves to a few related topics. Instead, they write "lifestyle" blogs that cover a range of subjects that interest them, including their own lives. A lifestyle blogger might write about a

personal experience in one post, then review products in the next.

For instance, Jessie, who started a blog about her kids, could later decide to expand her blog's focus to include other topics. She might write about her personal life, as well as her hobbies and other things she's interested in, like fashion, crafts, and community issues. She could sort her posts on various subjects into categories, so that readers could easily find the posts that interest them.

Blogging this way can be fun, because you can regularly write about anything that comes to your mind. That said, it has a few drawbacks, too. It may be harder for you to attract readers who don't personally know you. Also, not

all of your readers will be interested in all of the subjects you write about. This can be especially true if you mix personal posts with more polarizing, controversial ones. For example, readers who enjoy Jessie's posts about her kids may be turned off or even offended by some of her posts on sensitive subjects like politics.

Deciding How Much Time to Commit

It's hard to get people to read your blog if you don't update it regularly. While it's easy to be enthusiastic about your blog and post frequently when you first get started, you may find it harder to keep up with posting as time goes on.

Having a posting schedule can make it easier to find time for your blog. How you create your schedule is up to you. Some people work best with a very strict schedule, and may prefer to set aside a little bit of time every day to work on their blog. Others might be happier choosing a loose schedule. With this type of

schedule, they might post twice a week, but not always on the same day or at the same time.

When you're deciding how much time you want to commit to your blog, make sure to consider all your other commitments, and be realistic about the amount of time you actually want to spend writing. Remember, blogging is a hobby. If you treat it too much like a chore, it may become less enjoyable.

Using Drafts and Scheduling Posts

You can also manage your time by writing drafts of your blog posts ahead of time, then posting them at a later date. Most blog services even include a feature that lets you schedule saved posts. Once you've scheduled a post, it will automatically be published at the time you specified. Scheduling posts can be a good way to guarantee that you post about the same number of updates each week.

The drafts and scheduling tools can be especially useful if you find it hard to set aside a particular time of day for writing. You can create drafts when you have a lot to write about, then post them later, when you're feeling too busy or uninspired to write.

Deciding How Much Personal Information to Share

Before you write your first blog post, you should already know how personal you want your blog to be. Some bloggers choose to blog with their real name and include personal details about their lives. Others blog with a pseudonym, or fake name. If you're either a very private or very open person, the decision whether or not to reveal personal information on your blog probably seems pretty straightforward. However, there are a few things that everyone should consider when deciding how much to share.

What's the Best Choice for You?

Now that you understand the pros and cons of sharing personal information on your blog, look back at your blogging goals and the audience you decided to write for. Depending on how you're going to use your blog, you might have to share at least a little information in order to reach your goals.

Blogging Openly

For example, if you want to use your blog to promote yourself or build a career, you'll need to include at least some personal information. You don't have to include many personal details— just enough that someone looking to learn about yourwork would be able to find your blog and get in touch with you, if necessary.

Blogging Anonymously

On the other hand, if you have a more personal blog, you may not want to link real-life information like your full name and location to the things you write. In Jessie's case, there's no real need to share identifying information on her blog. Her main audience is her family and friends, who already know who she is.

Blogging Cautiously

Whether you choose to make your identity public or be completely anonymous, you should be cautious about sharing personal details online. As you decide how much you feel comfortable sharing, keep this in mind: Once you post information about yourself online, it's almost impossible to be totally anonymous later, even if you remove the information you shared.

Unless you have a real need to share personal details, we recommend that you start out sharing a minimal amount of information about yourself. As you get more comfortable blogging, you may choose to share more about yourself with your readers.

Designing Your Blog

Much of your blog's design will depend on the blog service you choose to host it. It's hard to plan the appearance of your blog in too much detail before you've actually signed up with a blog service. However, there are a few components of your blog's design that you can decide on ahead of time.

Blog Name

Your blog name is important, as it's the first thing people will see about your blog. There's no single rule or formula for coming up with a good blog name, but these tips can help:

>Make it relate to your topic.

This can help you attract readers who are looking to read about a specific subject.

>Make it interesting.

"Craig's Cooking Blog" is a descriptive title, but it doesn't really make you want to read it. Think of the blogs you read. Which ones have names that sound interesting to you? What do those names have in common?

>Make it easy to remember.

The best way to do this is to make it short—three or four words max. If you choose to use a made-up word for your blog's title, make it even shorter, and be sure it resembles or contains a real word. Engadget and Gizmodo are two examples of blogs with made-up but memorable titles.

>Make it something that can work as a logo.

One way to test this is to visit Wordmark.it, a site that lets you preview any word in every font you have installed on your computer. While you'll probably want your final logo to include some color or other graphic design elements, this can be a good way to test your title out.

Design Elements

As mentioned above, you'll get to customize the appearance of your blog when you create it with a blog service. Most major blog services offer various themes, or templates, that you can use to select the layout of your blog.

Once you choose a template, you can further customize your blog's appearance by choosing a new color scheme and organizing your posts into categories.

Making choices about your blog's appearance will be easier if you already have an idea about how you want your blog to look. Look at blogs that you find visually appealing. Ideally, these blogs should also have similar subject matter to your own—after all, a design that works for a political blog may look strange on a photoblog. However, this isn't essential. You can use any blogs you like as design inspiration.

Once you've found blogs whose design you like, the next step is to figure out what they have in common. You can then use those design elements in your own blog.

[4] Choosing a Blog Service

Once you have an idea of what you want your blog to be like, the next step is to pick the blog service that you'll use to create your blog. There are many different sites that offer blog hosting. Which one should you use? It depends on what you want to share, and how. You may even find that you'd rather share with a   microblogging service like Tumblr or Twitter, or a social network, like Facebook.

In this lesson, you'll get an introduction to popular blog services. Once you're familiar with these services, you'll be able to figure out which one is best

for you.

What is a Blog Service?

A blog service is a website that lets you create and maintain a blog. It hosts your blog, which means that it gives your blog its own web address, or URL. Your blog service also stores your blog's data. Each blog service has different features, but they all let you share your opinions, interests, photos, and more.

There are two basic types of blog services:

>Traditional blog services

Traditional blog services let you create a website for your blog. Blogs created with these services can include sections, categories, and other features that let you organize your blog posts. These services also include features that let you permit and manage comments, as well as tools to customize the appearance

of your blog.

Traditional blog services are best for creating text-heavy blogs, though you can really use them for any type

of content you like. It's likely that the blogs you're most familiar with use traditional blog services.

>Microblogging services

Microblogging services let you create blog posts that are very short, often consisting of only a line of text, an image, or a link. Most microblogging services are designed to be used in a certain way. For example, Twitter places a 140-character limit on the length of posts. Users can write whatever they want, but they must do so in under 140 characters. Social networking sites that allow sharing, like Facebook, can also be considered microblogging services.

Traditional Blog Services

The two biggest traditional blog services are WordPress and Blogger. Both allow you to create and customize your own blog, and both offer good options for creating all types of posts. The main difference between the two is the options they offer and their ease of use.

WordPress

WordPress is the most popular traditional blog service. It offers advanced blog customization features that let you control your blog's appearance and manage comments, blog post drafts, and more. Some of the advanced tools are designed for people who are familiar with HTML, which is a special computer language used for formatting websites. Even if you know nothing about HTML, you can still customize your WordPress blog's appearance with templates, or themes.

The downside of all of these options is that WordPress's blog management interface, called the Dashboard, can be a little confusing to navigate at first. However, WordPress does have extensive support tools to help you

get started.

Blogger

Blogger is the second most popular traditional blog service. It offers slightly fewer blog customization and management features than WordPress, but it still includes plenty of ways to control your blog's appearance, including a large selection of themes. Since it includes fewer options, Blogger's interface is simpler than WordPress's, so you may find it easier to use.

Blogger is a Google product, so if you already have a Google Account, getting started with Blogger will be especially easy.

Microblogging Services

Tumblr, Twitter, and Pinterest are three of the most popular microblogging sites. Facebook, a social network, can also be used for sharing.

Tumblr

Tumblr is a microblogging service that lets you create and update your own blog. People use Tumblr to share images, videos, links, and short text posts. Tumblr's simple posting tools and visually appealing layouts make it ideal for photoblogs, humor blogs, and other blogs that are updated frequently with short posts.

Like traditional blogging services, Tumblr offers options to customize the appearance of your blog, including a large variety of visual themes. In other ways, Tumblr is different from traditional blogging services. For instance, Tumblr doesn't include an option to leave comments on blog posts, which means that it's not an ideal tool for having a discussion. Instead, readers can like a post or reblog it, which shares the post on their own Tumblr blog.

Pinterest

Pinterest is a microblogging tool that lets you create and share collections of interesting links, images, and more. These collections are called pinboards. The items you share on your pinboards are then shared with others on Pinterest, who can then add your posts to their own pinboards. Pinterest can be a good tool if you're interested in sharing the things you enjoy with a wide audience, but don't necessarily care about writing and managing your own blog.

Twitter

Twitter is a tool that lets you post short text updates of 140 characters or less. Unlike Tumblr or traditional blogging services, you can't use Twitter to create your own blog. Instead, your updates appear on your Twitter Profile, in a feed that people can view or subscribe to. People use Twitter for many reasons, including sharing news and events, keeping up with friends, and engaging in discussions. If you have a traditional blog, Twitter can be a good way to promote your blog by connecting with other bloggers and linking to your own blog posts

Facebook

Facebook is the world's largest social networking site. The main reason people use Facebook is to stay connected with friends and family. However, sharing is also a big part of the Facebook experience. You can post links, photos, and videos to your Profile, and share longer, blog-like posts with the Notes tool. If you decide that you don't need your own blog and just want to share occasionally, Facebook can be a good way to do that.

Most people use Facebook just for sharing with people they know. However, you can also use Facebook to reach a wider audience by allowing others to subscribe to things you've shared publicly, or by setting up a Facebook Fan Page.

Even if you choose to use a traditional blog platform to create your blog, you can enhance your blog with microblogging. Many bloggers promote their blog by maintaining Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest accounts for their blogs and posting links to their blog posts

Which Blog Service is Right for You?

Choosing the right blog service is important. Your blog service will affect your blog's appearance, as well as what you're able to do with it. Every blog service has some limitations, and some services are better than others for

certain purposes.

Now that you know about various blog services, you can think about the features you want for your blog and decide which service is best for you. For instance, if you want a blog that's more like a website, with different categories and sections, you should probably choose a traditional blog service.

Keep in mind that more features doesn't always mean a better blogging experience. The more options your blog service has, the more complicated blogging can become. If you don't actually plan on using the advanced features traditional blog services like WordPress and Blogger have to offer, you'll probably find a simpler service like Tumblr better suited to your needs.

[5] Writing and Promoting Your Blog

Once you've gotten your blog set up and written a few posts, you can start

thinking about attracting readers. While there's no single magic method that will guarantee more readers for your blog, there are a few things you can do to help people find your blog and encourage them to keep reading it.

In this lesson, you'll learn how to attract readers by making your blog readable

and easy to find. You'll also learn strategies for connecting with other bloggers.

Improving Your Blog's Readability

The most essential step you can take to get more people to read your blog is to improve your writing. The best blogs feature writing that is engaging, distinctive, and easy to follow— in short, writing that is entertaining and highly readable.

Having a well-written, readable blog doesn't require that each post be a masterpiece—it just means that you should think before you post. There are a few simple things that anyone can do to improve their blog writing, regardless of their skill level or past experience as a writer.

Blog Writing Tips

Keep Posts Fairly short

Use Paragraphs and Imanges to Break Up Text

Consider Using a Conversational Tone

Proofread and Edit Your Posts

Connecting with a Blogging Community

No matter what you write about in your blog, there's bound to be other people out there who are blogging about the same or similar subjects. Becoming part of this community of bloggers is a good way to get more people to read your blog. People who know you and share your interests are likely to read your blog posts and even recommend them to others.

Being part of a blogging community can also make writing your blog more enjoyable. When you're not sure who's reading your blog, writing can feel a little bit like shouting into a void. In contrast, when you're part of a community, you may feel like you're participating in an established discussion. Many bloggers like the feeling of writing for an audience of friends.

Making Your Blog Easy to Find

Even if you write the best blog posts on the internet, you'll never get many   readers unless people can easily find your blog. The internet is a big place, and making your blog stand out from millions of others is hard. Still, there are a few things you can do to make it more likely that new readers will visit your blog.

[6] Copyright and Fair Use

As you write blog posts, you may find you want to include images you find

online. Or maybe you found a great piece of writing— a recipe, a story, a

review—that you want to highlight on your own blog. It's important to know that

nearly all of the content you find on the web belongs to someone. Just because you can take images, text, and more from other sites doesn't mean it's right to do so—ethically or legally.

In this lesson, you'll learn about the copyright protections that apply to work posted online. You'll learn about the rules that determine which images and text you can use, and how you can use them. You'll also learn how to protect the content that you create.

Understanding Copyright

Copyright is the legal concept that works—art, writing, images, music, and more—belong to the people who create them. According to copyright law, any original content you create and record in a lasting form is your own intellectual property. This means that other people can't legally copy your work and pretend that it's their own.They can't make money from the things you create either.

To use, copy, or change a copyrighted work, you need permission from the person who holds the copyright. This permission is called a license. Even though everyone has the right to require that others respect their copyright and ask permission to use their work, some people and organizations choose to license their content more freely. They do this by giving their work a Creative Commons license or by placing their work in the Public Domain.

Using Public Domain and Creative Commons Content

If you don't want to spend money on the images and content you use for your blog, you may want to use PublicDomain and Creative Commons-licensed content.

Using Public Domain Content

There are no restrictions on using works that are in the Public Domain, which means that you can use them however you want— short of claiming you created them. Unfortunately, it's not always easy to tell whether something is in the Public Domain or not. There may be some cases where you know for sure that a work is Public Domain—for instance, if you find a photo or text that you know was published before 1923— but for the most part, the best way to find Public Domain content is to search for it.

Sites for Finding Public Domain Content:

> Prelinger Archive

> PublicPhoto.org

> TotallyFreeImages.com

> US Government Images

Using Creative Commons Content

Although Creative Commons content won't cost you any money to use, it's not totally free: to use it, you do have to follow certain rules. People who choose to make their content Creative Commons can choose one or more of

these licenses to apply to their work:

> Attribution: You must credit the creator in order to use, copy, or share the content.

> Non Commercial: You can't make a profit from the content.

> No Derivative Works: You can't change the content.

> Share Alike: You can change the content, but you have to let other people use your new work with the same license as the original. So, you can't treat any Share Alike work that you adapt as your own copyright, even if you radically change it.

How to Tell if Content is Creative Commons

To tell if a piece of content is Creative Commons, look for the Creative Commons symbol , as well as symbols that indicate exactly which licenses apply to it. For instance, the symbols in the example below indicate that the photo has three licenses: Attribution, Non Commercial, and No Derivative Works. That means you can use this photo if you credit the person who created it, don't make money from it, and don't change it.

Sites for Finding Creative Commons Content:

> Wikimedia Commons

> Flickr's Creative Commons Search

> Creative Commons Search

Using Copyrighted Material

As you learned earlier, you generally need to license copyrighted material in order to use it, which often costs money. The exception to this is a rule called Fair Use. Fair Use means that you can use copyrighted material without a license only for certain purposes. These include:

> Commentary

> Criticism

> Reporting

> Teaching

So, for example, you can't just grab a copyrighted photo and use it on your blog because you think it's pretty. However, it probably would be considered Fair Use if you included that photo in a blog post that commented on and analyzed a photographer's work.

Guidelines for Fair Use:

>The majority of the content you post must be your own.

To return to the example above, it's probably Fair Use to include a few relevant photos in a long post. However, using those same photos in a post with only a few lines of commentary might not be Fair Use. For another example, imagine if you found a useful tutorial that you wanted to feature on your blog. Including one tip from the tutorial would be Fair Use. Including the entire tutorial would not be Fair Use, even if you linked to the original source.

>Give credit to the copyright holder.

In order for something to be Fair Use, you need to give full credit to the person who created it. This includes the creator's name, as well as other information that will help people find the original work or source. For example, if you're posting and commenting on an image that was published on a newspaper's website, you should include a link to the original story.

>Don't make money off of the copyrighted work.

In general, it's much easier to claim Fair Use when you're using the copyrighted material for noncommercial purposes. While posting images of your favorite TV shows and adding funny captions and commentary might be considered Fair Use, selling those images on tee-shirts would not. Making money from ads on your blog can also limit your ability to claim Fair Use.

Misusing Copyrighted Material

Keep in mind that even if you post content in good faith, the copyright holder may not agree it's Fair Use. If someone requests that you remove their work from your blog, you should do so immediately. Otherwise, you can suffer serious consequences, including:

> The copyright holder may complain to your blog service and have your blog shut down.

> The copyright holder may sue you.

Licensing Copyrighted Content

If you want to use copyrighted content in a way that doesn't fall under Fair Use, you'll have to license it in order to get permission to post it. If you're interested in purchasing the rights to use images, video, and other media on your blog, you may want to visit a few of the following Stock Photo sites:

> iStockphoto

> Fotolia

> Photos.com

Sharing Copyrighted Videos

Video-sharing sites like YouTube and Vimeo offer the option to post videos to your blog by embedding them.

When you embed a video, it automatically creates a link back to the place it was originally posted. Since the original creator or poster is automatically credited, you don't have to worry about going through any extra steps to give credit.

Be aware that many videos on these sites—particularly videos of TV shows and movies— are in violation of copyright law, and may be removed from YouTube at any time. If a video you've embedded is removed from YouTube, it will also be removed from your blog. You should never embed a video that you know is breaking copyright laws.

Protecting Your Intellectual Property

Copyright protects the things you create, too. You own the original content you post on your blog. If people copy or steal your intellectual property, you have the right to try to stop them.

Guarding Your Content

The best way to protect your content is to keep an eye out for it elsewhere. These tips can help you tell if your content has shown up on another website or blog:

>Use plagiarism search services.

These services analyze your blog or site, then search for sites with identical content. Copyscape.com is a reputable site with a free plagiarism search.

>Set up Google Alerts for excerpts of your posts.

Google Alerts is a service that you can use to automatically email you when sites post new information about a person, thing, or event. You can create alerts for individual posts by entering a few sentences from your post in the Search Query field. (Make sure to use quotation marks.) If that text shows up elsewhere on the web, you'll receive an email. Creating a Google Alert for each of your posts can be time consuming,so you may want to limit your Alerts to posts that people are likely to copy, like tutorials.

>Add watermarks to your images.

A watermark is something you add to an image to identify yourself as its creator—usually a symbol or some text. Watermarks make it easy for you and your readers to recognize images you created. They also can have the effect of discouraging others from taking your images in the first place. You can easily create watermarks in image editing programs like Picasa and Photoshop.

What to Do if You Find Your Content on Another Site

There are two things you can do if you find your images, text, or other media on another website or blog. First, contact the person who runs the blog or site that took your content. Most blogs list a contact email address, but if you can't find one, you can always leave a comment on the offending post. Ask them firmly but politely to remove your content (or give you credit, if you don't mind sharing it). This can work, especially in cases where the other person didn't realize they were doing anything wrong.

If contacting the blogger doesn't work, you may want to file a DMCA takedown request. "DMCA" refers to the Digital Millenium Copyright Act, a law designed to help copyright holders protect their content. Under this law, if a site steals your original content, you can complain to that site's service provider. If the service provider finds your complaint valid, it will take down the content.

[What is plagiarism?]

Plagiarism is presenting someone else's work as your own. It can include copying and pasting text from a website into a project you're working on, or taking an idea from a book without including a citation to give credit to the book's author. Plagiarism is common, and the Internet has made it even more common. However, if you are careful to cite your sources it's not too difficult to avoid plagiarism.

(1)

Sylvia works at the regional headquarters for a retail clothing chain. The company is planning to open a new store in Shelbyfield, and Sylvia is tasked with writing an article about Shelbyfield in the company newsletter. She finds a really good article online that talks about the history of Shelbyfield. Because she doesn't have much time to write her article, she copies several paragraphs and pastes them into it. She then changes a few words so it won't be an exact copy. When her coworkers read the company newsletter, they compliment Sylvia on her well-written article.

What's wrong with this situation?

Sylvia has taken credit for someone else's writing. Her coworkers had complimented her on work that she hadn't actually done, so her professional reputation is partly built on a lie! If someone finds out that she copied someone else's work, her reputation could be permanently damaged, and she may even get into trouble.

It's actually OK that she got information from a website. Sylvia's mistake was that she wasn't upfront about her source. She should have included a citation (a brief note saying where the information came from). Instead of changing a few words, she could have put the text in quotation marks to show that it came from another source. Or she could have completely reworked the town history to give it a different angle—while still including a citation.

(2)

Dave has a home improvement blog he updates in his free time. Sometimes he gets an idea from another website, and he writes a blog article based on it. Because he writes all of the text himself, he doesn't link to the site where he found the idea.

What's wrong with this situation?

Although Dave didn't copy the text itself, he copied the ideas from the other website. He should have included a link to the website so he's not taking credit for the idea. It's only fair to the other authors, and it also makes Dave's blog seem more professional.

Tips for avoiding plagiarism

Even if you don't mean to plagiarize, it's still possible to do it without realizing it. It's important to understand that it's still plagiarism, even if it's accidental. By following a few basic tips, you can reduce the risk that you'll accidentally plagiarize.

>If you use a source, cite it.

>Use quotation marks when necessary

>Don’t just change a few words

>Synthesize the information

!!! If something is common knowledge, you don't need to cite a source. For example, "Paris is the capital of France" is a well-known fact which is not disputed, so you wouldn't need to include a citation for that fact.

How should you cite online sources?

The way you cite your sources will vary depending on how formal you need to be. For example, if you're writing a blog article it's often enough to simply link to the original source. You may also want to mention the original author's name and/or the name of the website to help your readers tell at a glance where you're getting your information.

If you're writing a more formal paper, you will generally need to use a specific format for citations. You can use a style guide such as the Chicago Manual of Style to give your citations a consistent style. For these types of citations, you may list the sources as footnotes or include a bibliography at the end (or both).

FACEBOOK

[1] What is Facebook?

Facebook is a social networking website that makes it easy for you to connect and share with your family and friends online. Originally designed for college students, Facebook was created in 2004 by Mark Zuckerberg while he was enrolled at Harvard University. By 2006, anyone over the age of 13 with a valid email address could join Facebook. Today, Facebook is the world's largest social network, with more than 1 billion users worldwide.

Why use Facebook?

Have you ever wondered why people like using Facebook? After all, there are already lots of other ways to communicate online, such as email, instant messaging, and so on. What makes Facebook unique is the ability to connect and share with the people you care about at the same time.

For many, having a Facebook account is now an expected part of being online, much like having your own email address. And since Facebook is so popular, other websites have worked to integrate Facebook. This means you can use a single Facebook account to sign in to different services across the Web.

How does Facebook sharing work?

Facebook allows you to send messages and post status updates to keep in touch with your friends and family. You can also share different types of content such as photos, links, and more. But sharing something on Facebook is a bit different from other types of online communication. Unlike email or instant messaging, which are relatively private, the things you share on Facebook are more public, which means they'll usually be seen by lots of other people.

While Facebook offers privacy tools to help you limit who can see the things you share, it's important to understand that Facebook is designed to be more open and social than traditional communication tools. We'll talk more about sharing and controlling your privacy in our lessons on Understanding Facebook Privacy and Adjusting Your Privacy Settings.

[2] Getting Started with Facebook

If you're thinking about joining Facebook, this lesson will show you everything you need to get started. We'll explain some common Facebook terms and how to create a Facebook account. We'll also explore the Facebook Home page, Timeline, and Facebook for mobile devices.

Common Facebook terms

Friends? Likes? Status updates? If you're new to Facebook, there are a lot of terms and phrases that may seem a little confusing at first. Reviewing some of the most commonly used terms will give you a better understanding of how Facebook works and what to expect as you get started.

<Notification>

You'll receive a notification in an email message and on your Home page whenever someone interacts with you on Facebook. For example, you'll be notified when someone adds you as a friend, likes or comments on something you've shared, or sends you a private message.

<status update>

One of the most common things people share on Facebook are status updates—short, text-based posts that your friends can see and comment on. You can also post other things, like photos, videos, links, and more. Your friends will be able to see your posts on their News feeds, and the things you share will also be posted to your Timeline.

<friend>

You can add people you know as friends on Facebook. Your friends will see the things you share, such as status updates or photos. Friends will also be able to view your profile information and share things on your Timeline.

<Timeline>

Also known as your profile page, the Timeline is where You'll share information about yourself on Facebook. For example, it's where You'll post your profile picture, share basic information about yourself, and more.

Whenever you share something on Facebook, it will appear on your Timeline, as well as your friends' News Feeds

<Like>

Whenever your friends share something on Facebook, you can choose to like the post. This is just a simple way of showing your friends that you enjoyed what they shared.

You can also like the Facebook Page for certain businesses and organizations to receive updates about them in your News Feed.

<News feed>

The News feed is a stream of updates from your friends and any Facebook Pages you follow. This is where You'll probably spend most of your time on Facebook, since it's where you can view and comment on what's happening with all of your friends.

<comment>

Whenever your friends share on Facebook, you can leave a comment about their posts.

Creating a Facebook account

Before you can use Facebook, you must create an account. Creating a Facebook account is free. All you need to get started is an email address and a few minutes of your time.

To create a Facebook account:

1) Navigate to www.facebook.com in your web browser.

2) Under the words Sign Up, enter your personal information and desired password, then click Sign Up.

3) Now, you'll have the chance to find your first Facebook friends. To find friends using your email contacts, enter your email address and click Find Friends. This will give Facebook permission to access your email contacts list, so you may be required to sign in to your email account. You can also click Skip this step to add friends later.

4) If you entered your email address, Facebook will suggest friends for you based on your email contacts. Click Add Friend for anyone you want to add as a friend, then click Save & Continue.

5) If you want, you can now add information about your high school, college, location, and employer. Click Save & Continue when finished. Click Skip if you want to add this information later.

6) If you entered education and employment information, Facebook will suggest more friends. Click Add Friend for anyone you want to add as a friend, then click Save & Continue.

7) If desired, you can now choose to like some of the most popular Facebook pages. Anything you like will automatically appear in your News Feed and on your Timeline. Click Save & Continue when finished. Click Skip if you prefer not to follow anything at this time.

8) If desired, you can now add a profile picture. Click Upload a Photo to select a file from your computer, or Take a Photo to take a new photo with your webcam. Click Skip if you're not ready to add a profile photo.

9) Once you're satisfied with your profile picture, click Save & Continue.

10) The Welcome to Facebook page will appear.

Exploring Facebook

Once you create your account, you'll want to spend a little time becoming familiar with the different parts of Facebook, including the Home page and the Timeline.

The Home page

The Home page appears whenever you sign in to Facebook. The Home page displays your News Feed, which shows the things your friends have shared on Facebook. The Home page also allows you to navigate to other parts of Facebook, such as your Timeline.

The Timeline

The Timeline (also called your profile page) is where you'll share information about yourself. Whenever you post an update, it appears right on your Timeline. Your friends can also share posts on your Timeline.

Facebook for mobile devices

Facebook makes it easy to connect on the go. In fact, more than 50 percent of Facebook users primarily access the site from a mobile device. Facebook offers an official mobile app on a variety of smartphones and tablets, including iOS, Android, and Windows Phone.

You can use the mobile app to do just about everything you can do in the desktop version of Facebook—post status updates and pictures, read stories and updates, and chat with friends. We'd like to give you a quick overview of the two most popular versions of the Facebook app: Facebook for iPhone and Facebook for Android. While the interface for these apps is somewhat different, you'll notice that each app gives you access to the same basic features.

[3] Why is Facebook privacy important?

If you choose to share things publicly on Facebook, anyone with an account will be able to find and view your Facebook information, posts, and activity. This could impact your privacy in a variety of ways. For example:

>You could be sharing personal information you’d rather keep private, such as your birth date and address.

>Anything you post, such as photos, comments, and status updates, will be visible to people you don’t know.

>Embarrassing or unflattering posts could negatively affect your personal and professional reputation.

>Third-party websites and applications can access and share information from your Facebook account.

Understanding basic privacy settings

Whenever you share something on Facebook, you can choose who you'll share with. In the infographic below, you can see the most common sharing options, including Only me, Lists, Friends, and Public.

Let's take a look at these settings in action. For example, let's suppose you set all of the information on your Timeline to be visible only to friends. In this case, this is how your Timeline would appear to your friends:

By contrast, this is how it would appear to someone who isn't your friend on Facebook. Notice how most of the information is hidden, but the name, profile photo, and cover photo are still visible.

Sharing and privacy

Even if you customize your privacy settings, it's important to understand that the things you share on Facebook are visible to a lot of other people. This is because Facebook is designed to be more open and social than traditional communication tools.

For example, let's suppose you post a photo on a friend's Timeline. By default, that photo will be visible to all of your friends on Facebook, not just the person you shared it with. The photo will also be visible to anyone who is friends with your friend. This is one reason people enjoy using Facebook—it's easy to share with lots of people at the same time.

As long as you're somewhat careful about the things you share, Facebook doesn't pose a serious risk to your privacy. Before you share anything on Facebook, such as a comment or a status update, you'll need to consider how comfortable you are with many people seeing that information. If you wouldn't feel comfortable sharing something in a public place, you may not want to share it on Facebook either.