Comp25: Computer Purchase & Cloud Computing

Learning Objectives

1. To provide an understanding of modern computer components, software, and accessories
2. To understand how these components affect the price of a new computer purchase
3. To be more savvy the next time you buy a new computer
4. To utilize Google Docs' "cloud" computing solution to share your computer purchase with your TA and Instructor

Steps to Take

1. DOWNLOAD:   Computing - Purchase.doc to your U:\ drive or local folder, such as My Documents or your USB portable media.
2. SAVE:  the file as Computing Purchase - LastName.doc
3. OPEN:  your web browser.
4. TYPE:  https://docs.google.com into the address bar of your web browser.
5. SIGN IN: to Google Docs using your Google Account email address and password.
6. From the Google Docs Menu, CLICK:  "Upload."
7. When the window opens, BROWSE:  to the location where you saved the Computing Purchase - LastName.doc document and upload the document to Google Docs.  The file will be imported into Google Docs and should open on your screen.
8. Complete the assignment in Google Docs and follow the instructions within the document to complete the homework.  Answer each question thoroughly.
9. Use the Google Docs "Save" button often.  You may choose to "Save and Close" your document and come back to finish it later.  If you do this, you will see your document immediately when you sign in and double clicking on the document in Google Docs will open it.
10. When the assignment is complete, "Save" your document a final time.
11. CLICK: the Google Docs "Share" button.  Choosing this option brings up a drop-down menu. 
12. CHOOSE:  "Invite People"  
13. TYPE:  the email addresses of your instructor and your TA into the "invitee" area.  Make sure to separate them with a comma and NOT a semi-colon.
14. CLICK:  the check mark to give your instructor and your TA the ability to edit your file. 
15. CUSTOMIZE:  The subject and message fields.
16. CLICK:  the "Send" button to send your saved and shared filed to your instructor and TA. 

Useful Links & Resources

• Hardware Lecture
• C|Net Desktop Reviews
• Computer Hardware Definitions
• How to: Screen Capture
• Online retailers: Dell, Gateway, or Sony
• Visit Best Buy in person for a more hands-on experience