The first most important application a student should be able to use is a word processor. I would suggest Microsoft Word, but most of the word processors are fairly similar so understanding one can expedite learning another. This application is important because it allows one to publish many different kinds of written works. The outcome is neat and can be stored on file. It can be a real help for those who struggle with spelling and still want their writing to be professional.
The second most important application one should be familiar with is Windows. Knowing how to manage a micro-computer is going to be an essential skill in the near future. Knowing how to manage windows will help one install new programs, save and access files, and do maintenance on the computer.
The third most important application one should be familiar with is how to use a web browser. One of the most common ones is Internet Explorer. Knowing how to use a browser correctly can help one manage internet activities. Internet activities have become vital for so many individuals and managing the internet browser can save a person a lot of inconvenience and time.
The fourth application that I think a person should know how to use is Power Point. Power Point is such a great tool that can be used in so many different contexts and does a great job. One can present information to colleagues at work with it. Power Point is often used to give presentations at churches, weddings funerals, and other gatherings. Power Point files can also be sent over the internet so that individuals can communicate through multimedia presentations
Finally the last application that a person should be familiar with is excel. Excel is a great program that also one to take information and do quick analyses that my take a long time if done by hand. One can use the program to create charts as well. A common use of this program is to use it to run budgets. Teachers can use the program to manage grades. This program has so many uses that it can really apply to just about anyone’s needs.
The reason I placed these applications in this order is because I feel that the applications that a person uses most often in everyday life and work should be the program with the most emphasis.
When teaching these programs in schools, teachers can began at a very early grade level. Many of the processes involved in these programs are very logical and young students, even as young as the first grade, will be able to handle some of these programs. However, I think that teachers in the elementary levels should use the programs to incorporate into their lessons and only teach those skills that are essential to the assignments given. When students are in Middle and High School they should be taught more of the networking of these systems.
