Computer User Skills (CUS 411S)
Unit 1
Icons used online in this course
Icon for extra reading (material on eLearning)->
Icon for Online Learning Content (material on eLearning)->
Icon for extra reading (material on the internet) ->
Icon for practical activity ->
Icon for assessment ->
Videos
Practical sections are explained with
videos. Where applicable, move your
pointer over the images on a slide to
activate the video player.
Welcome to the course. This course is divided into
several lessons, and each lesson will guide you
towards becoming proficient in using computers,
e-learning and modern-day operating systems
through online learning content such as videos,
audio and practical exercises.
Unit 1- Introduction to the Student
Portal, E-learning and Collaboration
Software
Introduction to the Student Portal
Unit 1 - Introduction to the Student Portal,
E-learning and Collaboration Software
Lesson One Objectives
At the end of this lesson you will be able to:
• Navigate the Student Portal (MyNUST).
Unit 1- Introduction to the Student
Portal
My NUST Portal link
The student portal is an online
platform that offers various services
to every student registered at the
Namibia University of Science and
Technology (NUST). The online
student portal at NUST is called
MyNUST.
The My NUST portal is a one-stop
link for all student-related services
on the NUST website.
Unit 1- Introduction to the Student
Portal
My NUST Portal link
The student portal is an online
platform that offers various services
to every student registered at the
Namibia University of Science and
Technology (NUST). The online
student portal at NUST is called
MyNUST.
The MyNUST portal is a one-stop link
for all student-related services on
the NUST website.
Unit 1 - Introduction to the Student Portal,
Kiosk?
Once you click on MyNUST, one of
the first services accessible is the
Student Kiosk, seen circled in red
on the image.
The Student Kiosk provides
student-specific services such as
online registration, demographics,
progress reports, course results and
examination timetables, to
mention a few. Login credentials
are normally provided upon
registration.
Unit 1 - Introduction to the Student Portal,
Kiosk – login page.
Unit 1 - Introduction to the Student Portal,
Step 1
Step 2
E-learning?
Another important link accessed through the
MyNUST portal is E-learning.
Most courses, if not all, at NUST have an
online presence. The Computer User Skills
(CUS411S) course, for example, is a fully online
course, though a blended teaching approach is
followed.
To access e-learning click on the links as
indicated on the image, step 1 and 2.
Unit 1 - Introduction to the Student Portal,
Login
E-learning Login?
Study material and related course information can be
accessed on e-learning. Additionally, assessments for
courses such as CUS411S are conducted on this
platform.
Each course lecturer or coordinator is responsible for
facilitating and maintaining their courses online to
ensure students have a seamless experience with their
online courses.
The image depicts the login page. Each NUST student
receives login credentials once registered. The same
credentials can also be used to login to any computer
at NUST.
Unit 1 - Introduction to the Student Portal,
E-learning, login page.
E-learning
Unit 1 – Introduction to the Student Portal,
E-learning and Collaboration Software
Lesson Two (Part A) Objectives
At the end of this lesson you will be able to:
• Define the term E-Learning and give examples of its
application.
• Describe the different modes of e-learning as offline or online.
• Classify learning activities as asynchronous or synchronous.
• Explain the merits and limitations of using E-Learning as
means of training delivery.
Unit 1 - …E-learning
Introduction to e-learning
Access to educational facilities:
When we consider the elements of space and
time in education, we can easily identify how:
for a working-class mother working from 8am
to 5pm and having to fend for a family,
educational needs and how education is
delivered will need to be tailor-made to
navigate these challenges.
Another scenario can be that of students based
in a distant centre and access to education
(for example tertiary) may require them
relocating.This is a great challenge.
•
Technology has impacted our lives
greatly over the past decades. The
way organisations do business and
even the way we learn.
The growing demand on time,
space and skilled training deliverers
has put immense pressure on
institutions and their education
delivery.
Technology has been introduced
into mainstream education to help
alleviate some of these situations
that are becoming more prevalent
in education in Namibia. We will
consider some of these in brief:
Costs:
In the example provided above about relocation in
order to access education we should also bear in
mind that costs associated with relocation and
then cost of fees may hamper any hope that some
people may have
•
Unit 1 - …E-learning
What is e-learning?
• The use of technology to facilitate the delivery of learning material (content and
activities) that enables the acquisition of skills and knowledge is known as e-learning.
•
E-learning refers to using technology to increase the effectiveness and accessibility of
learning.
•
E-learning is not intended to replace conventional methods of training such as classroom
teaching. Its aim is to create an augmented learning environment where technology is used
to deliver a combined range of teaching techniques to maximise the individual’s learning
process.
• Do you want to improve your Research Methodology skills but don’t have time to do a training
course in the evening or over the weekend? Or maybe there are no training opportunities in
your home town. You have explored different routes including the local library but have not
found up to date information or resources.
Unit 1 - …E-learning
Conventional Learning Model
Unit 1 - …E-learning
The Learning Process
When you learn you are in the process
of acquiring a skill or knowledge.
Learning happens in various ways –
through courses, conversations, life
experiences, personal thought, or
working on a project.
Learning requires attention. Effective
training grabs attention and holds it.
Unfortunately, the neural systems in
the brain that control attention and
store information as memory get tired
very quickly (in minutes).
Training is patterned to move from one set/unit
to another in order to provide the most effective
learning model. Let us consider these activities:
1.Listening
to a fact e.g. Flour, when mixed
with eggs, can be kneaded into dough and cut
into shapes for pasta.
2.Relating a concept to that fact e.g. Foods
high in carbohydrates help the body generate
energy.
3.Visualizing the two together e.g. Sports
teams need quick energy that can be provided
by carbohydrates, so they often have a meal of
pasta prior to games. (How eLearning Works)
The same sequence follows learning material and
activities provided during training sessions. Topics
are structured in a pattern that allows for you to
develop your skills progressively and to relate the
skills.
Unit 1 - …E-learning
How does learning take place?
Learning takes place in different ways
for individuals. Think of your peers:
Some prefer to learn by discussion
and sharing.
Some prefer to learn by practice or
experiment. Some prefer to read and
understand on their own
The traditional mode of learning
involves an instructor led environment:
Much like the Conventional Model
shown above. But we should consider
that activities can be used as a means of
imparting skills. Think of case studies in
business management or experiments in
science subjects. They are all learning
activities (which may carry marks) but
are generally part of the learning cycle
and are thus designed to support the
acquisition of knowledge (learning).
Discussion question
Give yourself time to reflect on your
studies to date. Have you learnt anything
new about how you prefer to learn? Do you
think this affects/has affected how learn?
Unit 1 - …E-learning
E-Learning Implementation Modes
E-learning can be implemented in different ways (approaches) for training purposes.
Consider the following methods.
Purely online:
 In this scenario, no face-to-face
meetings or physically facilitated
learning is conducted. All learning
and facilitation is done via the
computer system.
Blended Learning:

Combination of computer-based
and face-to- face meetings
Unit 1 - …E-learning
E-learning delivery
It can be divided into two major models:
Asynchronous learning:
Synchronous learning:
It involves self-paced learning,
with limited or without live
instruction from the lecturer. It
can be delivered using CD-ROMbased, Network-based, Intranetbased
or
Internet-based
mediums.
Is done in real-time with a live
instructor facilitating the training.
Everyone logs in at a set time and
can communicate directly with the
instructor and with each other.
 live instructor
 Facilitated training.
Unit 1 - …E-learning
Platforms for E-learning Delivery
If we take note that eLearning has a focus on information communication technology
as a means to facilitate learning, the question that would beg to be answered is: Are
there different ways of providing E-learning?
Discussion question
Let us attempt to answer the question by looking at the various medium available for
delivery of E-learning which includes:
DVD/CD-ROM Based delivery
Web-based/Online Learning
Unit 1 - …E-learning
Benefits and limitations of E-learning
Benefits of E-learning:


•


•
E-Learning is student centred. The learner is the core of any
e- Learning system. Materials and activities are designed
with the needs and interests of the learner in mind. Students
assume control of their learning experience and use it to suit
their specific needs.
E-Learning is self-directed and self-paced. Students control
the amount of time spent on a particular topic. This allows
learners to skip material they already understand or to spend
additional time on difficult areas. This individualized
approach usually allows learners to complete their education
and training faster than in traditional courses.
E-Learning is interactive and hands-on. The use of a variety of
multimedia increases student involvement and reinforces the
learning experience. This leads to increased retention and a
stronger grasp of the subject at hand.
E-Learning is flexible. Learning can take place anytime and
anywhere, as long as the necessary equipment is available.
The logistics and expense of face-to-face education and
training can be extremely limiting when students are
separated by distance.
E-Learning also allows physically or otherwise challenged
studentsto more fully participate.
E-Learning provides consistent and effective training. All of the
target learners can participate simultaneously and receive the
same information, reducing the variability introduced through
multiple sessions indifferent locations
Limitations of E-learning:


•
Computer literacy and access to equipment. Any eLearning system involves basic equipment and a
minimum level of computer knowledge in order to
perform the tasks required by the system.
Some topics are not appropriate for e-Learning.
Certain subjects that require physical activity and
practice, such as sports and public speaking, are
not good candidates for e-Learning. However, eLearning can be a useful companion to traditional
education for teaching background and technical
information.
The flexibility and student-centred nature of e-Learning
requires a high level of student responsibility. A
successful e-Learning student must bewell organized,
self-motivated, and possess good time management
skills.
Unit 1 – Introduction to the Student Portal,
E-learning and Collaboration Software
Lesson Two (Part B) Objectives
At the end of this lesson you will be able to:

Define the term Learning Management system and
explain how it may be used to support learning activities.

List examples of tools that may be found on a LMS that
are used to support learning.

Understand and explain how assessment can be
facilitated in E- Learning.
Unit 1 - …E-learning
Learning Management Systems
The LMS is made up of the units shown in the diagram above.
•
Content Repository: Database housing all the files
•
Content Management Unit: Management unit carrying out the usercommands
•
Interface: The medium through which the user gets to interact withthe system.
Unit 1 - …E-learning
Learning Management Systems
Features of a LMS
The tools and features found on LMS vary from brand to brand, as you will find in extra reading; different
LMSs offer different capabilities based on their development background, target clients as well and the
platforms they arerunning off.
This is a point we can reflect on when we look at accessing an LMS via a cellular phone rather than a PC.
The features and tools that you may be able to use on a PC would not be available via some cellular
phones.
The typical features available on an LMS include:
• User Profile: User details and user detail management area showing user management options
(passwords & contact details)
• Course: Content associated with a particular course this includesActivities & Resources.
• Resources: eBooks , Content Pages , Audio files(podcast),videos,animations images etc.
• Messaging Service: Area were a user can access messages sent tothem by other users of the LMS. (MAILBOX)
• Grade Book: Area were a user can access his/her grades inassessments.
Unit 1 - …E-learning
Learning Management Systems
Unit 1 - …E-learning
Learning Management Systems
How to Use an LMS
The procedure usually involves:
1. Access a computer connected to the LMS via a network or via
the internet.
2. Enter your user details (Typically username and security pin
or password).
3. Access the course area you wish to study.(usually by just
clicking on the course title).
4. Select the activity or content you wish to engage in.
Lesson Activity
Log into the NUST LMS and see if you can
go through the steps mentioned above and
observe how content management occurs.
You can raise your questions about content
management on the LMS Under general
Queries.
Unit 1 - …E-learning
Learning Management Systems
Learning in an Online Environment
E-learning vs Conventional Learning:
The conventional means of learning highlighted above are not
present in an online learning environment. The student has a
greater responsibility and ability to manage the pace of learning
and reflect on the learning material without the limitations of
time and space.
Unit 1 - …E-learning
Learning Management Systems
Best Practices in eLearning courses:
•
The nature of eLearning courses offers a new dimension to learning and communication.
A very important aspect of collaboration is brought into consideration. Many of us have
heard of social networking and chat rooms available over the internet. These are
platforms that may be used to having for social purposes but are now gaining ground in
enhancing education and knowledge sharing.
•
How can we conduct ourselves in an online learning environment such that the
information we are seeking or sharing is delivered and understood effectively?
•
How can we ensure that our participation and education experiences are fruitful and
lead us to the attainment of the desired learning outcomes?
 Message Acknowledgement: When you receive a message, it is appropriate to respond
to the message requirements as soon as received else send an acknowledgement of
receipt of the message.
 Participation: Discussion Forums are meant to be a platform for collaboration and
interaction and all areas in your E-Learning course that require you to participate in a
discussion should be treated with great priority. In some instances, contributions to
Discussion Forums are used as an assessment tool.
Unit 1 - …E-learning
Learning Management Systems
Best Practices in e-learning courses:
Language & Conduct: It is important to remember that as
much as the LMS provides a user with a tailor-made
environment to support their learning, it is critical that the
sense of community and harmony in language and conduct be
practised. This can be done by exercising some of the
following:






Restraint in the volume of unsolicited communication toother users.
Using proper English in all communication on discussionforums.
Researching fully topics or ideas before presentation toonline
communities.
Removing personal content from all forms of communicationon a LMS.
Adhering to instructor/Tutor instructions and guidelines.
Reporting any form or abuse or infringement on oneslearning rights.
Unit 1 - …E-learning
Learning Management Systems
Collaboration Software
Unit 1 – Introduction to the Student Portal,
E-learning and Collaboration Software
Lesson Three Objectives
At the end of this lesson you will be able to:


Understand collaboration software and give examples of its
application.
Login and navigate through different features of Microsoft
Teams.
Unit 1 - ...Collaboration Software
What is it?
Collaboration software, also known as
collaboration tools, refers to a category of
software applications and platforms designed to
facilitate and enhance teamwork and
communication among individuals or groups.
These tools enable people to work together on
projects, share information, communicate in
real-time, and streamline various aspects of
collaboration.
2023 vedantu.com ’.Use of computer for gaming Retrieved from
https://www.vedantu.com/computer-science/use-of-computers-inentertainment
Unit 1 - ...Collaboration Software
Examples?
1. Communication Tools:



Email: Basic email clients like Microsoft Outlook or Gmail are often
used for communication within organizations.
Instant Messaging (IM): Tools like Slack, Microsoft Teams, or
WhatsApp Business provide real-time chat and file sharing.
Video Conferencing: Platforms such as Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and
Google Meet offer video and audio conferencing capabilities
2. File Sharing and Storage:

Cloud Storage: Dropbox, Google Drive, and OneDrive allow
for easy file sharing and cloud-based storage.
The choice of collaboration software depends on the specific
needs and objectives of a team or organization. Many
organizations use a combination of these tools to create a
comprehensive collaborative environment that suits their
requirements.
2023 vedantu.com ’.Use of computer
for gaming Retrieved from
https://www.vedantu.com/computerscience/use-of-computers-inentertainment
Unit 1 - ...Collaboration Software
Microsoft Teams (MS Teams)
MS Teams:
•
Is a widely used collaboration platform and
communication tool developed by
Microsoft. It's part of the Microsoft 365
(formerly Office 365) suite of productivity
tools and services. Microsoft Teams
facilitates teamwork and communication
among individuals and groups within
organisations.
2023 vedantu.com ’.Use of computer
for gaming Retrieved from
https://www.vedantu.com/computerscience/use-of-computers-inentertainment
Unit 1 - ...Collaboration Software
Microsoft Teams (MS Teams)
How to login to MS Teams:
1. Open your preferred web browser (e.g., Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Microsoft Edge)
and navigate to the Microsoft Teams website at teams.microsoft.com.
2. On the Microsoft Teams homepage, you will see two options: "Sign in" and "Create a
team." Click on the "Sign in" button.
3. You will be redirected to the Microsoft sign-in page. Here, you have two options to sign in:
a. If you have a Microsoft account (such as Outlook.com, Hotmail, or Xbox Live), enter your
email address in the provided field and click "Next." Then enter your password on the
following page and click "Sign in."
b. If you have a work or school account, click on the "Sign in with a work or school
account" link located below the email field. Enter your work or school email address and
click "Next." Then provide your password and click "Sign in."
4. If you entered the correct credentials, you'll be logged into Microsoft Teams, and the main
interface will be displayed.
Alternatively, you can also download and install the Microsoft Teams desktop or mobile
application and sign in using the same steps mentioned above.
Note: The login process may vary slightly depending on your organization's settings and
requirements. If you encounter any issues, it's best to reach out to your IT support or system
administrator for assistance.
Unit 1 - ...Collaboration Software
Microsoft Teams (MS Teams)
Key features of MS Teams:
•
•
•
•
•
•
Chat and Messaging: Teams allows users to send instant messages and chat in realtime, either one-on-one or in group chats. It supports text-based messaging as well as
file sharing, GIFs, and emojis.
Video and Audio Conferencing: Teams provides a platform for video and audio
meetings. It includes features like screen sharing, meeting recording, and the ability to
schedule and join meetings from within the application.
Channels: Teams organizes conversations and content into channels, making it easy to
categorize discussions and collaborate on specific topics or projects. Each channel can
have its own set of members and permissions.
Integration with Microsoft 365 Apps: Teams seamlessly integrates with other Microsoft
365 applications like Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and SharePoint, allowing users to edit
and collaborate on documents directly within Teams.
File Sharing and Collaboration: Users can upload, share, and collaborate on files,
documents, and presentations within Teams. The integration with OneDrive and
SharePoint ensures that files are easily accessible and can be edited collaboratively.
Third-Party App Integrations: Teams supports a wide range of third-party app
integrations, allowing users to incorporate tools and services they already use into the
Teams platform. This includes apps like Trello, Slack, and many others. er any issues, it's
best to reach out to your IT support or system administrator for assistance.
Unit 1 - ...Collaboration Software
Microsoft Teams (MS Teams)
Key features of MS Teams…
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Guest Access: Teams allows organizations to invite external collaborators or guests into
their Teams environment, enabling secure collaboration with clients, vendors, or
partners.
Security and Compliance: Microsoft Teams offers enterprise-level security features,
including data encryption, multi-factor authentication, and compliance with various
industry standards and regulations.
Customization and Bots: Teams can be customized with tabs, connectors, and bots to
enhance functionality and automate tasks.
Customization and Bots: Teams can be customized with tabs, connectors, and bots to
enhance functionality and automate tasks.
Search and Discovery: Powerful search capabilities enable users to find conversations,
files, and information quickly and easily.
Mobile Accessibility: Microsoft Teams has mobile apps for iOS and Android devices,
allowing users to stay connected and collaborate on the go.
Meetings and Webinars: Teams supports large meetings and webinars, making it suitable
for both internal team meetings and external presentations or events.IT support or
system administrator for assistance.
Activity
Complete the unit 1 activity
once activated by your lecturer.
References
Please note all references are listed at the end of the course
learning units in the file titled “CUS Units Image Credits and
References”.
The references and or list follow no particular referencing style
and are in no particular order.