iRubric: Beginning Computer Skills rubric

Power on the computer and peripherals. Start an application (such as word processor, Internet browser, e-mail) by desktop icon or menu bar. Use features of an application simply by using the mouse, keyboard, and the application's menu bar.

Connect ports of the computer to peripherals. Install/uninstall an application. Interrupt and restart applications or the computer when they freeze.

Configure desktop environment and applications for efficient operation (e.g., create short cuts, customize monitor size, customize menu bars). Apply basic commands of operating system software. * (e.g., create, rename, and delete directories). Employ desktop operating skills.* (e.g., use mouse buttons, and keyboard shortcuts).

Performance simple testing and diagnostics of devices (e.g., sound card, serial port, disk surface test). Modify configuration of devices (e.g., modem, monitor). Partition hard disk for data and application sharing. Perform disk clean-up and disk defragmenter tasks.

Maintain all files on local hard drive. Put all data files in a single level directory or one folder. Do not use different versions of files.

Backup data sporadically to a backup media (CD, disk, etc.) or server. Differentiate between files and directories*. Use folders or directories with meaningful names to store related files.

Backup data periodically to a backup media (CD, disk, etc.) or server. Apply appropriate file and disk management techniques* (e.g., defragment and rearrange files, reinstall backup data). Determine file organization* (e.g., use appropriate directory structures and names).

Perform scheduled systematic backup procedure. Recover, as much as possible, erased or corrupted data. Demonstrate knowledge of the system utilities used for file management* (e.g., change protection modes, rename, delete).

Access a given web site using an Internet browser. Navigate within a web site using basic browser software functions (e.g., back, forward).

Use additional browser functions (e.g., refresh, history, bookmarks). Complete and submit web forms. Organize bookmarks for frequently used or important web sites.

Navigate between and within web sites. Access and use multiple browser windows. Differentiate between secure and non-secure web sites. Download a file from a web site to the desired location.

Troubleshoot problems with a given URL (e.g., a specific file has moved in the domain). Use FTP to upload and download files to a remote computer. Configure Internet browser (e.g., clear history and cache, set security levels...).

Create an e-mail account. Access e-mail system using login and password. Send, receive, and reply to an e-mail. Save, delete, and print e-mail.

Create entry in address book. Use address book to send e-mail. Forward and redirect an e-mail. Demonstrate knowledge e-mail etiquette (do not flame people, no all caps, reply all when only appropriate). Use find and sort functions.

Create e-mail messages in accordance with established business standards (e.g., grammar, word usage, spelling, sentence structure, clarity). Manage mailboxes by deleting and organizing messages. Use e-mail features such as reply requested, return receipt, out-of-office notices.

Filter messages into folders. Set preferences and options. Integrate e-mail and PIM address books. Integrate multiple mail boxes.