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Why is computer literacy a vital skill in today’s world?
Computers are everywhere, and in our digital world, becoming computer literate is not negotiable. From the chip that powers your smartphone to social media applications and email software, computers permeate every aspect of our daily lives. And since we are living side by side with information technology, understanding the nuts and bolts of what drives these technologies and learning how to use them will enable you to better manage your personal affairs and enhance your career.   And as new technologies constantly deploy into the workplace at an exponential rate, arming yourself with the right digital skills is important for the following main reasons.
The importance of computer literacy at work comes down to five benefits: a foundation for learning any company system, higher productivity, faster communication, the ability to research on your own, and better job prospects. This guide explains each benefit of computer literacy and gives practical computer literacy examples, from basic mouse and keyboard skills to email, search engines and office productivity suites. If you or your team need to build these skills, our Microsoft Office and computer skills courses start at complete-beginner level and go up to advanced Excel.
- Computer literacy is a foundational advantage
Even basic computer literacy skills will enable you to better perform in the workplace. You can carry out essential computer-related tasks in any job from the outset. This foundation will also give you a foot in the door in terms of allowing you to quickly grasp any company-specific programs and software. This also means that any company you work for will spend fewer resources on training you in basic concepts and instead you will move straight into more advanced applications.
- Improved computer literacy means increased productivity and efficiency
Technology offers a variety of solutions in the workplace and even more so where enhanced productivity and efficiency comes into play. For instance, more tasks can be tackled in less time, and job efficiency is improved through enhanced workflow processes, thereby freeing up resources to focus on other priorities and tasks.
- Computer literacy improves communication
Those who are computer literate are better equipped to connect with people across the globe almost instantly and keep abreast of current events in real-time. An understanding of computer programs and applications such as email service providers and search engines like Google and Yahoo helps to streamline communication. Internal communication is enhanced through document sharing and meetings can be held virtually using platforms such as Teams and Zoom.Â
Examples of computer literacy skills
Basic Computer Skills
If working on a computer is completely unfamiliar to you, you will first need to acquire basic computer skills such as how to power a computer on and off, use a mouse, type, and learn simple commands. Upon mastering the basics, you will be ready to move on to learning different programs and software.
Proficiency with Operating Systems
Every computer uses an operating system. An operating system is a framework that enables the computer to manage key functions. Most organisations use Windows but others also use MacOS which is the computer operating system for Apple desktops and laptops.
Operating knowledge of productivity suites
An operating knowledge of office productivity suites is a vital skill. An office productivity suite consists of a collection of software programs that offer spreadsheet, word processing, and presentation tools. The most popular office productivity suites are:
- Microsoft Office, which operates via Windows
- GSuite, which is a cloud or Internet-based suite
- iWork, which operates via macOS
Within each productivity suite, the commonly used programs are:
- Word processing programs such as Microsoft Word, Mac Pages and Google Docs
- Spreadsheet programs such as Microsoft Excel, Mac Numbers and Google Sheets
- Presentation programs such as Microsoft PowerPoint, Mac Keynote and Google slides
Proficiency with email and communication programs
Since effective communication is essential to every organisation, a critical skill to develop in the workplace is an understanding of how to use email platforms such as Microsoft Outlook and other applicable communication programs. Email is necessary to communicate information to customers as well as employees. Other programs enable connection such as video conferencing programs like Teams and Zoom.
A working knowledge of search engines
Search engines are used to access the world wide web. Skill in using a search engine is vital for most employees since it provides the means to independently conduct research. Proficiency in this area includes the ability to search using appropriate keywords or phrases.
Social media skills
Social media skills are especially important to those who fulfil a marketing function. Platforms such as Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and TikTok are used extensively to post content and advertising.Â
Computer literacy increases your chances of getting that dream job
There is no doubt that in the digital age that we are living in, computer literacy skills provide better job opportunities for everyone. Most employers will seek candidates who are computer literate. When drafting your CV, it is vitally important to highlight your level of computer literacy and knowledge of the various programs, platforms and different types of software. In so doing, you will improve your chances of getting that dream job.
Reference sources: Indeed.com
Frequently asked questions
Why is computer literacy important?
Computer literacy matters because almost every job now involves computers. Even basic skills let you carry out essential computer tasks from day one, pick up company-specific software quickly and work more productively. Computer literacy also improves communication through email, document sharing and video meetings, and it makes you more employable, because most employers look for candidates who are computer literate.
What are 5 reasons computer literacy is important at work?
First, it gives you a foundation, so you can learn any company system quickly. Second, it raises productivity, because more tasks get done in less time. Third, it improves communication through email, shared documents and video meetings on platforms such as Teams and Zoom. Fourth, search-engine skills let you research independently. Fifth, it improves your job prospects, because most employers want computer-literate candidates.
What are examples of computer literacy skills?
Common examples are: basic skills such as switching a computer on and off, using a mouse and typing; working with an operating system such as Windows or macOS; using productivity software for word processing, spreadsheets and presentations, such as Word, Excel and PowerPoint; using email programs such as Outlook and video-conferencing tools such as Teams and Zoom; searching the web with well-chosen keywords; and, for marketing roles, social media skills.
What are the advantages of computer literacy when looking for a job?
Most employers look for candidates who are computer literate, so these skills widen the range of jobs you can apply for. Employers also spend less time training you in the basics and can move you straight on to more advanced or company-specific programs. When you write your CV, state your level of computer literacy and list the programs and platforms you can use, such as Word, Excel, Outlook and Teams.
For anyone starting from scratch, our Introduction to Computers and Microsoft Office Basics course is a two-day, hands-on start to using a computer and the core Microsoft Office programs. We run it in-house at your premises, at our Sunningdale, Johannesburg venue, or online. Delegates receive a BOTI certificate of attendance. Call 011 882 8853 or email [email protected].