1. Terminology
OpenStax Introduction to Computer Science (free, openly licensed textbook) 
A resource for learning foundational vocabulary such as algorithms, programming, data, hardware, software, networks, and computing careers. Written for introductory college learners and places terminology in the context of real computing problems rather than presenting it as an isolated glossary.
Reference: OpenStax. (2024). Introduction to computer science. Rice University. https://openstax.org/details/books/introduction-computer-science
Use the opening chapters to distinguish among data, information, information systems, information technology, people, procedures, and organizational processes. This is especially helpful for students taking business, IT, or information-systems courses.
Reference: OpenStax. (2025). Foundations of information systems. Rice University. https://openstax.org/details/books/foundations-information-systems
Reference: Sharpened Productions. (n.d.). TechTerms computer dictionary. https://techterms.com/
2. Information Technology Concepts
Introduces the major components of information systems—hardware, software, data, people, and procedures—and explains how organizations collect, process, store, retrieve, and distribute information. It provides a solid conceptual base before students focus on a particular device or application.
Reference: OpenStax. (2025). Foundations of information systems. Rice University. https://openstax.org/details/books/foundations-information-systems
Beginner-oriented lessons explain computers, mobile devices, the internet, cloud services, hardware, software, files, online safety, and digital citizenship in plain language. It is particularly useful for students who need a low-pressure review before beginning more technical coursework.
Reference: Goodwill Community Foundation. (n.d.). Computer basics. GCFGlobal. https://edu.gcfglobal.org/en/computerbasics/
An accessible introduction to digital security concepts, including common threats, personal privacy, device protection, and responsible online behavior. It adds an important security perspective to a basic IT course.
Reference: Cisco Networking Academy. (n.d.). Introduction to cybersecurity. https://www.netacad.com/courses/cybersecurity/introduction-cybersecurity
3. Operating Systems
LibreTexts: Types of Software (free, openly licensed learning material)
This reading distinguishes system software from application software and explains the operating system’s central roles: managing hardware resources, providing a user interface, and supporting application programs. It also helps students compare desktop and mobile operating systems.
Reference: LibreTexts. (2022, August 9). Types of software. https://workforce.libretexts.org/Courses/Evergreen_Valley_College/Information_Systems_for_Business_2e/03%3A_Software/3.02%3A_Types_of_Software[workforce.libretexts]
GCFGlobal: Understanding Operating Systems (free online tutorial)
An overview of Windows, macOS, Linux, and mobile operating systems. Use it to learn what an operating system does before practicing file management, settings, software installation, and updates on a personal device.
Reference: Goodwill Community Foundation. (n.d.). Understanding operating systems. GCFGlobal. https://edu.gcfglobal.org/en/computerbasics/understanding-operating-systems/1/
Ubuntu Desktop Documentation (free and open-source documentation)
Ubuntu’s official documentation provides practical examples of working with an open-source Linux operating system, including files, software, settings, and basic command-line tasks. It is useful for students who want hands-on exposure beyond Windows or macOS.
Reference: Canonical Ltd. (n.d.). Ubuntu desktop documentation. https://help.ubuntu.com/
4. Artificial Intelligence
IBM SkillsBuild: Artificial Intelligence Fundamentals (free online learning)
A beginner pathway that introduces AI history, machine learning, natural-language processing, computer vision, deep learning, neural networks, and practical applications. It is especially useful because it combines conceptual instruction with interactive activities and can lead to a digital credential.
Reference: IBM. (n.d.). Artificial intelligence fundamentals. IBM SkillsBuild. https://skillsbuild.org/
OpenStax Foundations of Information Systems, Chapter 10 (free, openly licensed textbook)
This reading connects AI to information systems and emerging technology. It introduces AI, machine learning, neural networks, cloud computing, and mobile computing while emphasizing data quality, potential bias, privacy, and the importance of responsible use.
Reference: OpenStax. (2025). The evolving frontiers of information systems. In Foundations of information systems. Rice University. https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/10-2-the-evolving-frontiers-of-information-systems
Elements of AI (free online course)
A widely used introductory course that helps non-specialists understand what AI can and cannot do, how machine learning works at a high level, and why ethical and societal questions matter. It is appropriate for students in any major.
Reference: University of Helsinki, & MinnaLearn. (n.d.). Elements of AI. https://www.elementsofai.com/
5. Productivity Software for Problem Solving
This is an excellent core text for first-year students because it covers computer literacy, workplace software, Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, word processing, spreadsheets, and presentations. Its guided practice and authentic scenarios help students use software to analyze problems, make decisions, collaborate, and communicate results.
A no-cost, open-source productivity suite: Writer for documents, Calc for spreadsheets, Impress for presentations, and Base for databases. It is a useful alternative for students who do not have institutional access to Microsoft 365 or who want transferable software skills.
Reference: The Document Foundation. (n.d.). LibreOffice: Free and private office suite. https://www.libreoffice.org/
Provides tutorials for Docs, Sheets, Slides, Drive, Forms, and other cloud-based collaboration tools. It is particularly useful for group projects that require real-time editing, commenting, sharing permissions, and version history.
Reference: Google. (n.d.). Google Workspace Learning Center. https://workspace.google.com/training/[workspace.google]
6. Computer Technology Trends
Begin here for a foundational overview of emerging technologies, including AI, machine learning, cloud computing, mobile computing, cybersecurity, data analytics, social media, and the Internet of Things. The chapter is useful because it also asks students to consider innovation’s organizational and social implications.
Reference: OpenStax. (2025). The evolving frontiers of information systems. In Foundations of information systems. Rice University. https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/10-2-the-evolving-frontiers-of-information-systems
Pew Research Center publishes accessible, nonpartisan research on technology adoption, social media, AI, privacy, online behavior, and the digital divide. Students can use its reports to add current evidence and data to technology-trends discussions.
Reference: Pew Research Center. (n.d.). Internet and technology. https://www.pewresearch.org/internet/
A reputable technology-journalism source for following developments in AI, computing, climate technology, biotechnology, cybersecurity, and digital policy. Students should compare its reporting with primary sources and scholarly research when writing assignments.
Reference: MIT Technology Review. (n.d.). MIT Technology Review. https://www.technologyreview.com/
7. Professional Documents
Use this text for guided practice in word processing, professional communication, document design, collaboration, and workplace-ready formatting. It is especially valuable because it covers comparable tasks in both Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace.
Reference: OpenStax. (2023). Workplace software and skills. Rice University. https://openstax.org/details/books/workplace-software-skills
Google’s official training materials explain how to create, revise, format, share, comment on, and collaborate in documents. This is a practical option for students preparing collaborative reports, résumés, memos, and peer-review assignments.
Reference: Google. (n.d.). Google Workspace Learning Center. https://workspace.google.com/training/
Microsoft’s training center includes official learning resources for Word and other Microsoft 365 applications. Students can use it to practice document formatting, templates, collaboration, accessibility features, and professional layout.
Reference: Microsoft. (n.d.). Train your users on Office and Microsoft 365. Microsoft Support. https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/office/o365-itpro/train-your-users-on-office-and-microsoft-365[support.microsoft]
This guide supports the writing decisions behind professional documents, including audience awareness, tone, clarity, résumé writing, workplace correspondence, and document design. Pair it with word-processing practice for stronger academic and career communication.
Reference: Purdue Online Writing Lab. (n.d.). Professional, technical writing. Purdue University. https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/subject_specific_writing/professional_technical_writing/index.html
8. Spreadsheets
LibreOffice Calc Guide (free and open-source documentation)
LibreOffice’s community-written documentation teaches spreadsheet fundamentals using Calc, including formulas, functions, data organization, charts, and analysis. It is a strong choice for students who want to learn concepts that transfer to Excel and Google Sheets.
Reference: The Document Foundation. (n.d.). LibreOffice Calc guide. LibreOffice Bookshelf. https://books.libreoffice.org/en/CG/latest/
OpenStax Workplace Software and Skills (free, openly licensed textbook)
The textbook provides structured activities for using spreadsheets in academic and workplace contexts. Students can practice formulas, tables, data visualization, organization, and problem solving while comparing features across Microsoft Excel and Google Sheets.
Reference: OpenStax. (2023). Workplace software and skills. Rice University. https://openstax.org/details/books/workplace-software-skills
Microsoft Support: Excel Help and Learning (free online training; software access may require a license)
Official Excel tutorials provide practical instruction in formulas, functions, tables, charts, PivotTables, and data analysis. This is a good reference when a course specifically requires Microsoft Excel.
Reference: Microsoft. (n.d.). Excel help and learning. https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/excel
9. Presentations
LibreOffice Impress Guide (free and open-source documentation)
The official LibreOffice documentation introduces presentation creation with Impress, including slide layouts, visual elements, charts, media, transitions, and presentation delivery. It is useful for learning principles that transfer to PowerPoint and Google Slides.
Reference: The Document Foundation. (n.d.). LibreOffice Impress guide. LibreOffice Bookshelf. https://books.libreoffice.org/en/IG/latest/
OpenStax Workplace Software and Skills (free, openly licensed textbook)
This resource provides practice in using presentation software for real workplace and academic communication. Students can develop skills in slide design, visual hierarchy, concise writing, collaboration, and preparing content for an audience.
Reference: OpenStax. (2023). Workplace software and skills. Rice University. https://openstax.org/details/books/workplace-software-skills
Google Workspace Learning Center: Google Slides (free online training)
Google’s official Slides learning materials help students create, edit, share, comment on, and present slide decks in a collaborative environment. This is particularly helpful for team presentations and asynchronous peer feedback.
Reference: Google. (n.d.). Google Workspace Learning Center. https://workspace.google.com/training/
Microsoft Support: PowerPoint Help and Learning (free online training; software access may require a license)
Microsoft’s official PowerPoint resources cover slide creation, templates, media, speaker notes, accessibility, animations, and presenting. Use it when course assignments require PowerPoint-specific features.
Reference: Microsoft. (n.d.). PowerPoint help and learning. https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/powerpoint
10. Databases
LibreOffice Base Guide (free and open-source documentation)
The official Base documentation provides an accessible introduction to desktop databases. Students can learn to create tables, forms, queries, and reports while developing a practical understanding of how structured information is stored and retrieved.
Reference: The Document Foundation. (n.d.). LibreOffice Base guide. LibreOffice Bookshelf. https://books.libreoffice.org/en/BG/latest/
OpenStax Foundations of Information Systems (free, openly licensed textbook)
This text helps students understand databases in the broader context of information systems, data management, organizational decision-making, and ethical issues such as privacy and data quality. It is most useful as conceptual preparation before database-design software practice.
Reference: OpenStax. (2025). Foundations of information systems. Rice University. https://openstax.org/details/books/foundations-information-systems
SQLBolt (free interactive SQL lessons)
SQLBolt provides browser-based interactive lessons in SQL, the language commonly used to retrieve and manipulate data in relational databases. It is appropriate for beginners who need hands-on practice with queries such as SELECT, WHERE, JOIN, and GROUP BY.
Reference: SQLBolt. (n.d.). Learn SQL with simple, interactive exercises. https://sqlbolt.com/
Microsoft Support: Access Help and Learning (free online training; software access may require a license)
Microsoft’s official Access resources are useful for students assigned to create relational databases, tables, forms, queries, and reports in Microsoft Access.
Reference: Microsoft. (n.d.). Access help and learning. https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/access
11. Web Pages
MDN is one of the best starting points for learning web-page production. Its beginner materials explain how HTML structures content, CSS controls presentation and layout, and JavaScript adds behavior; students can build projects while learning accessible, standards-based practices.
Reference: Mozilla. (n.d.). Learn web development. MDN Web Docs. https://developer.mozilla.org/en-US/docs/Learn_web_development[developer.mozilla
This hands-on curriculum teaches HTML and CSS through small projects and larger portfolio-style exercises. It is particularly effective for students who learn best by writing code and seeing immediate results in a browser.
Reference: freeCodeCamp. (n.d.). Responsive web design certification. https://www.freecodecamp.org/learn/2022/responsive-web-design/
Students should use this resource while building web pages to understand why accessible design matters and how choices involving headings, alternative text, color contrast, keyboard navigation, and semantic HTML affect users.
Reference: World Wide Web Consortium. (n.d.). Introduction to web accessibility. Web Accessibility Initiative. https://www.w3.org/WAI/fundamentals/accessibility-intro/
GitHub Pages allows students to publish a basic static website directly from a GitHub repository. It is a useful next step after learning HTML and CSS because it teaches file organization, version control basics, and web publishing.
Reference: GitHub. (n.d.). What is GitHub Pages? GitHub Docs. https://docs.github.com/en/pages/getting-started-with-github-pages/what-is-github-pages
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