Get ahead

Get ahead of the game by making optimal use of the internet and its tools. Become more effective, more efficient and work smarter: become an internet super user.

The textbook is richly illustrated and easy to follow with lots of exercises, making it a perfect self-study resource.

Discover & learn

Make maximum use of the resources available on the internet, including the advanced use of search engines, how to research online, different ways of online communication, personal information management, online safety and security, mobile internet, social networking, and publishing your own online content.

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Chapter 1
Understanding the internet

  1. Get insight into the power and influence of the internet.
  2. Get a basic understanding of how the internet works.
  3. Learn how to connect to the internet and understand the terminology involved.
  4. Learn the history of the development of the internet – how and why it came to be.

Chapter 2
Using web browsers

  1. Learn how web browsers act as your window to the web.
  2. Learn how to choose the best web browser for your needs.
  3. Learn to use a web browser effectively.
  4. Discover how to add useful tools to your web browser.

Chapter 3
Using search engines

  1. Discover how search engines find useful information on the web.
  2. Learn about the most popular search engines.
  3. Learn to search effectively by using operators and other search tools.
  4. Discover advanced search features, like image search.

Chapter 4
Communicating online

  1. Learn the proper etiquette for communicating online.
  2. Learn tools and tricks of emailing and calendaring.
  3. Learn how to use internet forums and instant messenger.
  4. Learn to make calls with Skype, an online phone service.

Chapter 5
Researching online

  1. Get tips for evaluating the information you find online.
  2. Learn how to verify online information for yourself.
  3. Learn to use Wikipedia, a powerful and detailed online encyclopedia.
  4. Learn how to do detailed research with tools like Google Maps, Pipl, LastFM and others.

Chapter 6
Managing information

  1. Learn how to organize organise your information with folders and tags.
  2. Learn how to make online bookmarks with Delicious.
  3. Discover what RSS is and how it will help you keep track of your favorite websites and blogs.
  4. Learn how to manage your documents online with Google Docs.

Chapter 7
Staying safe online

  1. Learn about the risks on the internet, and how to avoid them.
  2. Discover the principles of good online safety and security.
  3. Learn to protect yourself from viruses, malware and phishing, among others.
  4. Learn how to create an effective and secure password.

Chapter 8
Transacting online

  1. Learn all about how transacting online works.
  2. Learn how to buy a product from an online store.
  3. Find out all about how PayPal works.
  4. Understand how to use your phone to make mobile transactions.

Chapter 9
Social networking

  1. Learn what social networking is and how to use it.
  2. Discover how to get started with Facebook, Twitter and other social networks.
  3. Get tips for using social networking for your business.
  4. Learn what your Google CV is, and how to manage your online reputation.

Chapter 10
Using the web on your cellphone

  1. Get insights into the scope of the mobile web in South Africa.
  2. Learn about mobile cellphone technologies.
  3. Learn how to browse the web, interact on social networks and transact with your cellphone.
  4. Learn the principles of keeping safe when accessing the mobile web.

Chapter 11
Publishing yourself online

  1. Understand what a blog is, and learn to create and write your own blog.
  2. Learn how to publish videos and audio online.
  3. Learn how to buy and sell products on Etsy, the online shopping tool.
  4. Build your own website with Yola, a free website builder.

Chapter 12
Your future as an internet super user

  1. Learn how to continue growing your skills and knowledge online.
  2. Learn new tips and tricks for researching information and contributing to the web.
  3. Discover some of the moral and ethical issues on the web.
  4. Learn how to keep growing as an internet super-user!
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