Chapter II

Review of Related Literature

This chapter presents the related literature and studies that are found to have a strong connection
to the current investigation. It starts with literature and studies on the definition of computer
literacy based on several articles. The chapter ends with a summary of the literature review.
Computer literacy is a skill to make practical and effective use of computers. In 1977 with the
article What is computer literacy? Moursound stated that computer literacy refers to
knowledge of the non-technical and low-technical aspects of the capabilities and limitations of
computers, and of the social, vocational, and educational implications of computers. To be
considered computer literate, one should be able to do basic tasks in the computer.

In the article Computing, Silverman defined the basic skills needed to be computer literate.
These are the following:
a.) To be able to know the location of files and the different types of files.
b.) To be able to know basic terminologies of hardware and software components of a
computer.
c.) To be able to able to highlight, copy or paste with a mouse.
d.) To know the basic keyboard commands.
e.) To know the functions or purpose of the different hardware components of a computer.
f.) To know how to connect to the internet and utilize the basic functions of a web browser.
g.) To know how to use a search engine.
h.) To know how to keep an antivirus program updated.
i.) To know the basic functions in software programs.

The Maryland Technology Standards illustrated the skills required for students to be able to work
independently. These skills were grouped according to level:
Basic- Foundational computer literacy skills:
Log on and off the computer
Power on and off the computer
Open and close applications
Open, save and close files
Print documents
Identify parts of a computer
o Computer (CPU)
o Monitor
o Mouse/trackpad
o Keyboard
o CD/DVD drive
o Printer
o Headphones
o Microphone
o Speakers
Use input device (e.g., mouse)
o Point
o Select/click or double click
o Click/select and hold
o Drag and drop
Move cursor
Type/enter letters and numbers
Recognize and use icons to perform
computer and software functions
Use special function keys
o Delete
o Shift
o Arrow keys
o Space
o Return/enter o Escape
o Backspace
o Multi-key functions (CTRL/Alt/Del)
o Caps Lock
Use/Adjust volume controls
Insert and eject media input devices
(CD/DVD)
Troubleshoot common technology
problems
o Printer
o Out of paper or toner
o Computer
o Power cords
o Network connections
o Peripheral connections
Intermediate Computer literacy and competency beyond the foundational level
Locate and retrieve files in various directories
Save the same file in multiple locations (flash drive, My Documents, network folders)
Recognize and save files in various formats (.bmp, .jpg, .pdf, .html, etc.)
Create folders to organize files
Rename files
Delete files
Select appropriate printer and print
Choose appropriate page setup features
Use multiple ways to accomplish the same task including keyboard shortcuts, icons and menus
Use input device (e.g., mouse)
o Select/right click
Use peripheral devices such as scanners, digital cameras, and projection devices
Multitask by using Task Bar and or minimize/maximize command or icon
Use special function keys
o Page up/down
o Home/end
Troubleshoot common technology problems
o Printer queue
o Not connected to the network
Proficient Computer literacy and competency beyond the intermediate level applied in
educational and work settings.
Attach and use peripheral devices such
as scanners, digital cameras, media
storage (e.g., flash drive), and
projection devices
View file properties to determine memory size
Locate and use accessibility features, as
needed
o Magnifier
o Sticky keys
Multitask in a variety of ways
Save a compressed file (.zip)

A group of researchers conducted a study about the computer literacy among first year medical
students in a developing country. Specifically, the researches aimed to assess computer literacy
among first year medical students in Sri Lanka. The study was conducted at Faculty of Medicine,
University of Colombo, Sri Lanka between August-September 2008. The respondents chosen
were 190 first year medical students. The tool used for gathering data was a questionnaire that
assessed the respondents computer literacy in 6 domains namely common software packages,
operating systems, database management and the usage of internet and E-mail. Based on the
results, the researchers concluded that Sri Lankan medical undergraduates had low-intermediate
level of computer literacy. They suggested that there is a necessity to improve computer literacy
by increasing computer training in schools.