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    Computer Fundamentals Courses Online

    Study computer fundamentals for basic knowledge of computing. Learn about hardware, software, and basic troubleshooting techniques.

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    Explore the Computer Fundamentals Course Catalog

    • N

      National Taiwan University

      3D CAD Fundamental

      Skills you'll gain: 3D Modeling, SketchUp (3D Modeling Software), Software Installation, Visualization (Computer Graphics), Computer Graphics

      4.6
      Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
      ·
      652 reviews

      Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

    • Status: Free Trial
      Free Trial
      E

      EIT Digital

      Development of Secure Embedded Systems

      Skills you'll gain: Real-Time Operating Systems, Embedded Systems, Embedded Software, Internet Of Things, Cryptography, Operating Systems, Security Requirements Analysis, Network Architecture, Network Security, Cybersecurity, Web Services, Encryption, Network Protocols, Public Key Cryptography Standards (PKCS), Computer Networking, Computer Programming, System Requirements, Software Engineering, C (Programming Language), System Design and Implementation

      4.3
      Rating, 4.3 out of 5 stars
      ·
      1.2K reviews

      Intermediate · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

    • Status: Free Trial
      Free Trial
      U

      University of Colorado Boulder

      Introduction to FPGA Design for Embedded Systems

      Skills you'll gain: Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA), Hardware Design, Electronic Hardware, Electronic Systems, Embedded Systems, Application Specific Integrated Circuits, Electrical and Computer Engineering, Schematic Diagrams, Technical Design, System Design and Implementation, Computer Architecture, Software Design, Hardware Architecture, Microarchitecture, Computational Logic, System Configuration, Verification And Validation, Design Software, Simulation and Simulation Software, Prototyping

      4.6
      Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
      ·
      1.2K reviews

      Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

    • Status: Free Trial
      Free Trial
      R

      Rice University

      Parallel, Concurrent, and Distributed Programming in Java

      Skills you'll gain: Apache Kafka, Apache Spark, Apache Hadoop, Distributed Computing, Java Programming, Java, Software Architecture, Systems Architecture, Data Structures, System Programming, Programming Principles, Servers, Application Frameworks, Debugging, Algorithms, Performance Tuning, Network Protocols, Computer Science, Functional Design, Scalability

      4.6
      Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
      ·
      1.6K reviews

      Intermediate · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

    • Status: Free Trial
      Free Trial
      C

      Columbia University

      Construction Cost Estimating and Cost Control

      Skills you'll gain: Construction Estimating, Cost Estimation, Punch Work, Bidding, Cost Control, Project Closure, Lean Methodologies, Project Estimation, Cash Flow Forecasting, Request For Quotation (RFQ), Earned Value Management, Procurement, Request for Proposal, Change Orders, Building Information Modeling

      4.7
      Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
      ·
      2.2K reviews

      Beginner · Course · 3 - 6 Months

    • Status: Free Trial
      Free Trial
      S

      Stanford University

      Greedy Algorithms, Minimum Spanning Trees, and Dynamic Programming

      Skills you'll gain: Algorithms, Bioinformatics, Graph Theory, Computational Thinking, Data Structures, Theoretical Computer Science

      4.8
      Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
      ·
      1.3K reviews

      Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

    • Status: Free Trial
      Free Trial
      U

      University at Buffalo

      Smart Contracts

      Skills you'll gain: Blockchain, Program Development, Software Development, Development Environment, Web Development Tools, Software Design, Solution Design, Business Logic, Event-Driven Programming, Application Deployment, Development Testing, Data Validation

      4.6
      Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
      ·
      2.3K reviews

      Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

    • T

      The University of Tokyo

      Welcome to Game Theory

      Skills you'll gain: Game Theory, Strategic Thinking, Socioeconomics, Social Sciences, Behavioral Economics, Economics, Strategic Decision-Making, Decision Making, Business Strategy, Probability

      4.7
      Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
      ·
      2K reviews

      Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

    • Status: Free Trial
      Free Trial
      M

      Microsoft

      Building AI Cloud Apps with Microsoft Azure

      Skills you'll gain: Cloud Development, Image Analysis, Anomaly Detection, Prompt Engineering, Microsoft Copilot, Microsoft Azure, Cloud Storage, Data Storage, Cloud Applications, Computer Vision, Text Mining, Microsoft Development Tools, Unsupervised Learning, Data Storage Technologies, Natural Language Processing, Cloud Hosting, Data Ethics, Continuous Deployment, Application Deployment, Virtual Machines

      4.5
      Rating, 4.5 out of 5 stars
      ·
      486 reviews

      Intermediate · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

    • Status: Free Trial
      Free Trial
      U

      University of Michigan

      Web Application Technologies and Django

      Skills you'll gain: Django (Web Framework), HTML and CSS, Model View Controller, Application Deployment, Application Frameworks, Web Applications, Web Servers, SQL, Databases, Network Protocols, Python Programming

      4.7
      Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
      ·
      1.9K reviews

      Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months

    • U

      University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

      VLSI CAD Part I: Logic

      Skills you'll gain: Computational Logic, Application Specific Integrated Circuits, Theoretical Computer Science, Data Structures, Verification And Validation, Computer Architecture, Algorithms, Computer Engineering, Programming Principles, Mathematical Software, Graph Theory, Software Development Tools

      4.7
      Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
      ·
      553 reviews

      Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months

    • Status: Free Trial
      Free Trial
      É

      École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne

      Digital Signal Processing

      Skills you'll gain: Digital Communications, Image Analysis, Telecommunications, Electrical Engineering, Electrical and Computer Engineering, Embedded Systems, Electronic Systems, Electronics Engineering, Computer Engineering, Engineering Calculations, Electronics, Programming Principles, Engineering Analysis, Numerical Analysis, Advanced Mathematics, Algorithms, Linear Algebra, Mathematical Modeling, Calculus, Applied Mathematics

      4.5
      Rating, 4.5 out of 5 stars
      ·
      779 reviews

      Intermediate · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

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    In summary, here are 10 of our most popular computer fundamentals courses

    • 3D CAD Fundamental: National Taiwan University
    • Development of Secure Embedded Systems: EIT Digital
    • Introduction to FPGA Design for Embedded Systems: University of Colorado Boulder
    • Parallel, Concurrent, and Distributed Programming in Java: Rice University
    • Construction Cost Estimating and Cost Control: Columbia University
    • Greedy Algorithms, Minimum Spanning Trees, and Dynamic Programming: Stanford University
    • Smart Contracts: University at Buffalo
    • Welcome to Game Theory: The University of Tokyo
    • Building AI Cloud Apps with Microsoft Azure: Microsoft
    • Web Application Technologies and Django: University of Michigan

    Frequently Asked Questions about Computer Fundamentals

    Computer fundamentals refer to the basic principles, components, and operations of computer systems. It encompasses the foundational knowledge required to understand how computers work, their hardware and software components, and their role in various applications. Computer fundamentals cover topics such as computer architecture, operating systems, data representation, computer networks, and software development concepts.‎

    To gain proficiency in computer fundamentals, you need to develop the following skills:

    • Computer Literacy: Basic knowledge of how to operate a computer, use an operating system, and navigate file systems.
    • Hardware and Software Components: Understanding the different components of a computer system, such as the central processing unit (CPU), memory, storage devices, and input/output devices, as well as knowledge of software applications and operating systems.
    • Data Representation: Familiarity with binary, hexadecimal, and decimal number systems, and how data is represented and stored in computers.
    • Computer Architecture: Knowledge of computer organization, including the CPU, memory hierarchy, and input/output subsystems.
    • Operating Systems: Understanding the functions and features of operating systems, such as process management, memory management, file systems, and user interfaces.
    • Networking Basics: Basic understanding of computer networks, network protocols, and internet connectivity.
    • Software Development Concepts: Familiarity with programming languages, algorithms, data structures, and the software development life cycle.
    • Cybersecurity Awareness: Knowledge of basic cybersecurity principles, such as password security, safe internet browsing, and protecting against malware.
    • Troubleshooting: Skills in diagnosing and resolving common computer hardware and software issues.
    • Communication and Collaboration: Effective communication skills to work with others, seek help, and collaborate on computer-related tasks.‎

    Computer fundamentals skills are essential in various job roles, including:

    • IT Support Technician
    • Help Desk Analyst
    • Computer Operator
    • Technical Support Specialist
    • Data Entry Operator
    • Computer Lab Assistant
    • Administrative Assistant
    • Computer Trainer
    • Customer Service Representative (with technical focus)
    • Entry-level IT positions

    These roles involve providing support, troubleshooting, and basic maintenance of computer systems, assisting users with software and hardware issues, and performing routine computer operations.‎

    Computer fundamentals are well-suited for individuals who possess the following qualities:

    • Curiosity and Eagerness to Learn: Interest in understanding the foundations of computer systems and their operations.
    • Problem-Solving Orientation: Aptitude for identifying and resolving basic computer-related issues and troubleshooting common problems.
    • Attention to Detail: Meticulousness in following instructions and performing computer tasks accurately.
    • Patience and Customer Service Skills: Ability to assist users with varying levels of computer literacy and provide support in a patient and helpful manner.
    • Strong Work Ethic: Dedication, discipline, and a willingness to continuously learn and adapt to new technologies.
    • Communication Skills: Effective communication and interpersonal skills to interact with colleagues and users of varying technical backgrounds.
    • Teamwork: Capacity to work collaboratively in a team, seeking and providing assistance when required.‎

    Several topics are related to computer fundamentals that you can study to enhance your knowledge, including:

    • Introduction to Computers and Computing
    • Computer Hardware Basics
    • Operating Systems Fundamentals
    • Introduction to Programming Concepts
    • Data Representation and Number Systems
    • Computer Networks and Internet Basics
    • Introduction to Databases
    • Software Development Fundamentals
    • Cybersecurity Basics
    • Troubleshooting Computer Issues

    Exploring these topics through online courses, tutorials, and practical exercises will provide you with a solid foundation in computer fundamentals, enabling you to effectively use and navigate computer systems and pursue further studies or careers in the field of information technology.‎

    Online Computer Fundamentals courses offer a convenient and flexible way to enhance your knowledge or learn new Computer Fundamentals skills. Choose from a wide range of Computer Fundamentals courses offered by top universities and industry leaders tailored to various skill levels.‎

    When looking to enhance your workforce's skills in Computer Fundamentals, it's crucial to select a course that aligns with their current abilities and learning objectives. Our Skills Dashboard is an invaluable tool for identifying skill gaps and choosing the most appropriate course for effective upskilling. For a comprehensive understanding of how our courses can benefit your employees, explore the enterprise solutions we offer. Discover more about our tailored programs at Coursera for Business here.‎

    This FAQ content has been made available for informational purposes only. Learners are advised to conduct additional research to ensure that courses and other credentials pursued meet their personal, professional, and financial goals.

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