World Computer Literacy Day 2024

World Computer Literacy Day is Here!

World Computer Literacy Day seeks to bridge gaps, ensuring that underrepresented groups—such as women and children—are included in the technological revolution. Access to computers and digital education helps to create equal opportunities and provides the tools to unlock new possibilities.

Since its inception, computers have become indispensable in our daily routines, from completing school assignments to working remotely or playing video games. Computer literacy continues to break down barriers, making these tools more accessible and intuitive for users of all ages and backgrounds. Learning to use technology isn’t just a skill—it’s a gateway to personal and professional growth.

History of Computer Literacy Day

World Computer Literacy Day was first introduced in 2001 by an Indian company called National Institute of Information Technology (N.I.I.T) to celebrate their 20th anniversary. World Computer Literacy Day was the company’s response to a study they conducted that showed the that majority of computer users were male. The company took the initiative by educating women and children with computer literacy skills.

How About We Play a Game?

Since then, computers have become one of our best friends. From working on school assignments to playing video games with friends, computers have been implemented into our every day lives. Think you have what it takes to ace this computer literacy quiz? Think you know more then your kids or students? Head over to the first question!

Question #1

On a computer there are lots of different symbols and icons scattered throughout the interface. It helps users recognize a task and gives a visual representation for the user to remember. Do you know what these symbols mean and what they do?

Answer #1

1. Download Icon: When you want to store a file or image to your computer. You can find this icon on the corner of your page. It allows you to store it in a folder or your desktop.
2. Bookmark Icon: If there’s a webpage you want to save or store on your web browser, you can click this icon on the far right of your search bar to save the webpage for easy access. Bookmarks help avoid using search engines, which can show fraudulent copycat sites disguised as paid, promoted ads.
3. Extensions Icon: This is the puzzle piece shaped icon that is located beside your search bar or clicking three dots on your browser. You can download cybersafety tools such as UBlock Origin, AdBlock Plus etc. to help you stay safe on the web.

Question #2

Now let’s tackle some terminology related to computer and IT. It can be overwhelming with the amount of words there are. But let’s break down this tech lingo, do you know what this means?

Answer #2

Megabits (Mbps): Megabits per second, abbreviated as Mbps, is the unit used to measure internet upload and download speeds. It’s sometimes confused with Megabytes per second, or MBps, which is a measurement of data storage.

Fiber Optic: Is a type of technology that transmits data in form of light particles, that pulse through glass fibers within the cord. They are used for long-distance and high performance data networking.

4K Resolution: Resolution refers to the number of pixels in an image also known as the pixel density. 4K means the image has approximately 4,000 pixels horizontally. The more pixels the better the quality of the image or video.

Question #3

Time for the last question! Let’s talk about ports, they are a piece of hardware on a computer where an electrical connector can be plugged in to receive external information. There are many ports built into a computer. What are they? What do they do?

Answer #3

USB Port: A way to connect a mouse, keyboards or USB sticks to you computer.

USB-C Port: Used to transfer data and power between devices.

HDMI Port: Used for projecting something on a monitor, tv or projector.

Bonus Question!

Do you know what this is?

Bonus Question Answer

Kensington Lock Port: Also known as a K-slot, is a lock that prevents your laptop from being stolen in a public area such as a coffee shop or library. This isn’t to say you leave your computer unattended but it’s good feature to have as a second line of defence to protect you data. Thinner laptops such as Apple Macbooks don’t have these locks but some examples are found here.

Continue to test your knowledge with this quiz: Computer Literacy quiz

Connect with KnowledgeFlow Resources!

Now you’ve learned about common terminology, icons and ports. The world of computers still has much to discover. At KnowledgeFlow we value the importance of computers and how they can be used safely and effectively.

• Take a look at our resources catalogue about Cybersafety Resources
• Here’s a guide for about Cybersafety For Families and Youth
• Join our Cybersafety Academy for educational courses about computer literacy and cybersafety
• Check out our blog about World Computer Literacy Day 2023