Zoom: https://sdccd-edu.zoom.us/j/9191959460?pwd=OXh0RE9ZTVZTWElTMUQ0ZzAxQzExdz09
If asked, the passcode is emeritus
Course Overview
Welcome to Getting Started with Windows!
What is Windows?
Windows is your computer's operating system - the control center that helps you manage everything on your computer. Think of it as your computer's command center that helps you:
Open and use programs
Store and organize files
Connect to the internet
Customize how your computer works
The Desktop: Your Digital Workspace
The desktop is your main work area. It has three important parts:
1. Start Button
Located at the bottom-left corner of your screen
Opens the Start menu, your gateway to programs and settings
Looks different in Windows 10 (colorful tiles) vs Windows 11 (simple design)
Important Note: To customize your Start menu, go to: Settings → Personalization → Start
2. Taskbar
Located at the bottom of your screen, the taskbar shows:
Running programs
Important tools:
Search box for finding files and programs
Task view for seeing all open windows
Copilot (AI assistant)
Internet connection status
Sound controls
Time and date
Tip: To customize your taskbar, go to: Settings → Personalization → Taskbar
3. Desktop Icons
Shortcuts to your favorite programs and files
Can be arranged however you like
Right-click empty desktop space to add or remove icons
Using Your Mouse or Trackpad
Mouse Skills
Left Click: Select items
Double Click: Open items
Right Click: See more options (context menu)
Scroll Wheel: Move up and down
Trackpad Skills
Tap: Select items (like left click)
Two fingers:
Slide up/down to scroll
Pinch to zoom in/out
Three fingers:
Swipe up to see all windows
Swipe down to show desktop
Managing Windows
Every program window has three control buttons in the top-right corner:
Minimize (─)
Hides the window but keeps the program running
Program appears as a button on the taskbar
Maximize (□)
Makes the window fill the whole screen
Click again to return to original size
Close (×)
Closes the program completely
Remember to save your work first!
Making Windows Comfortable to Use
Adjusting Text Size
Open Settings
Choose 'Accessibility'
Select 'Text size'
Move the slider until text is comfortable to read
Click 'Apply'
Other Helpful Adjustments
All found in Settings → Personalization:
Fonts: Change text style
Colors: Adjust screen colors
Dynamic lighting: Control screen brightness
Practice Exercises
Try these activities to build your skills:
Starting Programs
Open three different programs from the Start menu
Close each one using the × button
Try minimizing and maximizing windows
Window Management
Open two programs
Resize them to see both side by side
Practice moving them around your screen
Using the Taskbar
Open several programs
Click their taskbar buttons to switch between them
Right-click taskbar buttons to see what options appear
Customization
Try changing your text size
Experiment with different color settings
Add or remove desktop icons
Next Session Preview
We'll cover:
File management
Creating and organizing folders
Finding and organizing your documents