1. Desktop Computers
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Powerful
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Not portable
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Suitable for computer labs
2. Laptops / Notebooks
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Portable
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Battery powered
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Ideal for teachers
3. Tablets
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Lightweight
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Touchscreen
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Good for digital reading & learning apps
Topic 1: Getting to Know Computers Better
Many teachers in Uganda are now expected to use digital tools to prepare lessons, keep records, communicate with parents, and guide learners. Yet, computers are still limited in most schools, and many teachers have never received proper ICT training.
This topic introduces teachers to the basic parts, functions, and purpose of a computer. It is simple, practical, and meant to build confidence even if you:
have one school computer shared by many teachers
have never touched a computer before
have no internet at your school
rely on smartphones for most digital tasks
This is the foundation for all future ICT skills.
2. Course Overview
Course Title: ICT for Teaching — Topic 1: Getting to Know Computers Better
Target Group: Beginner teachers, student teachers, ICT club patrons
Duration: 2–3 weeks (self-paced)
Mode: Offline-first (KAWA CONNECT devices) + online support
Purpose: Build confidence and functional digital literacy for Ugandan classrooms
3. Learning Objectives
By the end of this topic, you should be able to:
Define what a computer is and explain how it works.
Explain the three wares of a computer: hardware, software & liveware.
Identify major hardware parts of a computer.
Understand what a personal computer (PC) is.
Differentiate desktop, laptop, and tablet computers.
Identify common handheld devices (smartphones, multimedia players).
Recognize main parts of a computer (CPU, memory, storage, input/output devices).
Identify common ports (USB, network, serial, FireWire).
Appreciate how computers support teaching in Uganda's digital age.
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Understanding Computers and Their Components
Computers have become a central part of daily life in Uganda — from ATM machines to mobile banking, Ushahidi school systems, WhatsApp communication, printing reports, and preparing digital exams.
For teachers, computers are no longer optional tools; they are essential for effective teaching, administration, and communication.
This lesson helps you, the teacher, understand what a computer is, how it works, and what components make it complete, even if you have limited access to devices or no internet at school.
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How a Computer Works
A computer is an incredible tool that takes human input, processes it electronically, and produces useful output that can be displayed, printed, or shared digitally.
Whether you’re typing lesson notes, calculating marks, or browsing online, the computer follows the same basic steps every time.
It does not think or understand like a human — it simply follows instructions that have been programmed into it.
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