📘 Duration: 6–8 weeks | 🎯 Level: Beginner to Intermediate
📌 Course Overview: The Living Online Fundamentals course is designed to equip learners with the essential digital skills needed to navigate, communicate, and thrive in the modern online world. From understanding the internet and using email to staying safe online and collaborating in the cloud — this course covers it all in a simple, practical, and engaging way.
Whether you are a complete beginner, a student, a professional, or someone returning to digital life, this course will give you the confidence to use the internet effectively and responsibly.
By the end of this course, learners will be able to:
Week 1 4 hours
Week 2 4 hours
Week 3 5 hours
Week 4 5 hours
Week 5 5 hours
Week 6 3 hours
Week 7 4 hours
Week 8 4 hours
| Assessment Type | Weight | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Module Quizzes | 30% | Short quizzes at the end of each module to reinforce learning. |
| Practical Assignments | 30% | Hands‑on tasks like setting up an email account, creating a cloud document, and evaluating online sources. |
| Mid‑term Project | 15% | A research project using advanced search and source evaluation skills. |
| Final Capstone Project | 25% | A personal "Living Online" action plan that demonstrates all course skills. |
🎓 Certification: Upon successful completion of the course, learners will receive a Certificate of Completion in Living Online Fundamentals, accredited by [Your Institution/Provider].
No prior technical knowledge required.
| Skill Area | Specific Skills | Module |
|---|---|---|
| Internet Navigation | Using browsers, managing bookmarks, navigating websites | 1 |
| Search & Research | Keyword search, Boolean operators, evaluating sources | 2 |
| Email & Messaging | Composing, replying, attachments, filters, professional etiquette | 3 |
| Cybersecurity | Passwords, 2FA, phishing awareness, privacy settings | 4 |
| Cloud Collaboration | Cloud storage, real‑time document sharing, calendars | 5 |
| Digital Identity | Digital footprint, online reputation, social media presence | 6 |
| Social Media | Platform management, etiquette, algorithms, online communities | 7 |
| Real‑world Integration | Online banking, e‑commerce, telehealth, e‑government, e‑learning | 8 |
| Week | Module | Topics | Assignment / Activity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Module 1 | Introduction to the Internet & Web | Browser setup & bookmarking |
| 2 | Module 2 | Effective Online Searching | Research project |
| 3 | Module 3 | Email & Online Communication | Professional email composition |
| 4 | Module 4 | Online Safety & Cybersecurity | Security audit & 2FA setup |
| 5 | Module 5 | Cloud Computing & Collaboration | Collaborative document project |
| 6 | Module 6 | Digital Footprint & Identity | Digital footprint review |
| 7 | Module 7 | Social Media & Communities | LinkedIn profile creation |
| 8 | Module 8 | Living Online – Integration | Final capstone project |
Not at all! This course is designed for beginners. We start from the very basics and guide you step by step.
A computer, laptop, or mobile device with internet access. A webcam and microphone are optional but helpful for video sessions.
The course is structured for 8 weeks, with approximately 4–6 hours of study per week. Self‑paced options are also available.
Yes! Upon successful completion, you will receive a Certificate of Completion in Living Online Fundamentals.
Absolutely. You will have access to instructors, discussion forums, and peer support throughout the course.
Yes. The course is designed to be flexible, with recorded sessions and self‑paced materials.
📧 Email: enroll@livingonline.institute
🌐 Website: www.livingonline.institute
📞 Phone: +234 (0) 800 123 4567
📍 Location: Available Online — Global Access
Enroll Now — Limited Seats
Welcome to Module One of the Living Online Fundamentals course! This is the very beginning of your journey into the amazing world of the internet. You are about to discover how computers talk to each other, how information travels across the world in seconds, and how you can use this powerful tool to learn, play, and connect with people everywhere!
Think of the internet like a giant spider web that connects millions of computers all over the world. Just like a spider can feel a tiny vibration on its web from far away, information can travel across the internet in the blink of an eye. This module will help you understand how this magical web works, how to use it safely, and how to find anything you need online.
This module is written in very simple English, with lots of stories, examples, and fun pictures made with text. Every new idea is explained slowly and clearly, just like a teacher helping a curious 10‑year‑old. So take a deep breath, get ready to learn, and let's begin our adventure into the digital world! 🌍
By the time you finish this module, you will be able to:
Meet Titi, a 10‑year‑old girl who lives in Lagos, Nigeria. Titi loves to learn new things. One day, her teacher gave the class a project: "Find out everything you can about the history of Lagos and present it to the class."
Titi was excited! She went home and told her mother. Her mother smiled and said, "Titi, you can use the internet to find information. It is like a giant library that never closes!"
Titi had used the internet before to watch videos and play games. But she had never used it for research. She sat down at the computer, opened a program called a web browser (it had a colourful icon like a globe), and typed something into a box at the top of the screen.
To her amazement, a whole page of information appeared on her screen! She learned about the history of Lagos, the people who lived there, the foods they ate, and the festivals they celebrated. She found pictures, videos, and even maps of old Lagos.
"Wow!" Titi thought. "The internet is like magic. I can find anything I want, just by typing a few words!" She learned how to save the websites she liked using bookmarks so she could come back to them later. She also learned to open multiple tabs so she could look at different pages at the same time.
Titi finished her project and got an A+! She was so happy. She had discovered that the internet is not just for games and videos – it is a powerful tool for learning. And that is exactly what you are going to learn in this module too! 🚀
Definition: The internet is a giant network of computers all connected together. It allows computers to share information with each other, no matter where they are in the world.
Why it is important: The internet connects people, businesses, schools, and governments. It lets us communicate, learn, shop, and have fun – all from our homes!
Simple explanation: Imagine you have a group of friends, and you all have walkie‑talkies. When one friend talks, everyone can hear. The internet is like a giant walkie‑talkie system that connects millions of computers. When one computer "talks" (sends information), other computers can "hear" (receive) it.
Real-life example: When you send a message to a friend on WhatsApp, the message travels through the internet to your friend's phone. The internet makes this possible, even if your friend is in another country!
School example: Your teacher uses the internet to show a video from YouTube in class. The video is stored on a computer far away, but the internet brings it to your classroom screen.
Home example: Your parents use the internet to pay bills online. The payment information travels through the internet to the bank's computer.
Nigerian example: A farmer in Kaduna uses the internet to check the weather forecast. The forecast comes from a computer in Abuja, using the internet.
Illustration:
The Internet is like a giant web:
Computer A ──────────────── Computer B
│ │
│ │
│ ┌───────────┐ │
└───────┤ Internet ├───────┘
│ (The Web)│
└───────────┘
│ │
│ │
Computer C ──────────────── Computer D
All computers are connected together.
Information can travel between any of them!
Mini summary: The internet is a giant network that connects computers all over the world. It lets them share information quickly and easily.
Definition: The internet works by sending tiny pieces of information called data packets from one computer to another. These packets travel through cables, satellites, and wireless signals to reach their destination.
Why it is important: Understanding how the internet works helps us appreciate how amazing it is. It also helps us understand why sometimes things can go wrong (like when the internet is slow or not working).
Simple explanation: Imagine you want to send a letter to a friend who lives far away. You can't send the whole letter in one big envelope – it might get lost! Instead, you cut the letter into small pieces, put each piece in a separate envelope, and mail them all. Your friend gets all the pieces and puts them back together. The internet does the same thing with information!
Real-life example: When you watch a video on YouTube, the video is split into tiny pieces (packets) and sent to your computer. Your computer puts them back together so you can watch the video smoothly.
School example: When you download a homework assignment from your school's website, the file is sent as packets to your computer.
Home example: When you listen to music on Spotify, the songs are sent as packets to your phone.
Nigerian example: A bank in Lagos sends transaction data to a bank in Kano using packets. The packets travel through cables and wireless networks.
Illustration:
How information travels on the internet:
Step 1: Your computer splits the information into packets.
Step 2: Each packet travels through the internet.
Step 3: The packets arrive at the destination computer.
Step 4: The computer puts the packets back together.
Packet 1: [Hello]
Packet 2: [World!]
Packet 3: [How are]
Packet 4: [you?]
All packets arrive and are reassembled:
"Hello World! How are you?"
Mini summary: The internet sends information in tiny pieces called packets. The packets travel separately and are put back together at the destination. This makes the internet fast and reliable!
Definition: The internet is the physical network of computers and cables. The World Wide Web (or just "the web") is the collection of websites, videos, and information that we access through the internet.
Why it is important: Many people use the words "internet" and "web" as if they mean the same thing. But they are different! Understanding the difference helps you understand how things really work.
Simple explanation: Think of the internet as a big road system (like highways and streets). The World Wide Web is like the shops, restaurants, and houses that are on those roads. The roads (the internet) get you from one place to another. The buildings (the web) are where you find things you want.
Real-life example: The internet is like your phone line. The web is like the conversations you have on the phone.
School example: The internet is like the school building. The web is like the books and lessons inside the school.
Home example: The internet is like the pipes that bring water to your house. The web is like the water that comes out of the tap.
Nigerian example: The internet is like the roads in Lagos. The web is like the shops, offices, and homes along those roads.
Illustration:
The Internet vs. The World Wide Web
+------------------------------------------+
| THE INTERNET (The Roads) |
| ┌───────┐ ┌───────┐ ┌───────┐ |
| │ Cable │ │ Cable │ │ Cable │ |
| │ 1 │ │ 2 │ │ 3 │ |
| └───┬───┘ └───┬───┘ └───┬───┘ |
| │ │ │ |
| └──────────┼──────────┘ |
| │ |
| ┌──────▼──────┐ |
| │ THE WEB │ |
| │ (Websites, │ |
| │ Videos, │ |
| │ Pictures) │ |
| └─────────────┘ |
+------------------------------------------+
The internet is the network.
The web is the content you access on that network.
Mini summary: The internet is the network of computers and cables. The World Wide Web is the collection of websites and information you access using the internet. They are different but work together!
Definition: A web browser (or just "browser") is a program on your computer or phone that lets you view websites on the World Wide Web. Popular browsers include Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Microsoft Edge, and Safari.
Why it is important: Without a web browser, you cannot see any websites. The browser is like the "window" you look through to see the web.
Simple explanation: Imagine you want to look at a book. You need to open the book to see the pages. A web browser is like the book opener – it lets you "open" websites and see what is inside.
Real-life example: You use Google Chrome to watch YouTube videos, read news, and check your email. Chrome is a web browser.
School example: Your teacher uses Firefox to show educational videos from a website.
Home example: Your parents use Microsoft Edge to do online shopping and banking.
Nigerian example: A shop owner in Onitsha uses Safari on their phone to check product prices online.
Popular web browsers:
+-------------------+-------------------+
| Browser | Icon / Logo |
+-------------------+-------------------+
| Google Chrome | 🌐 (Coloured ball)|
| Mozilla Firefox | 🦊 (Fox) |
| Microsoft Edge | 🌊 (Wave) |
| Safari | 🧭 (Compass) |
+-------------------+-------------------+
Mini summary: A web browser is a program that lets you view websites. It is like a window to the World Wide Web. Different browsers work in similar ways, but they have different features.
Definition: A URL (Uniform Resource Locator) is the address of a website. It tells the browser exactly where to find a page on the web. The address bar is the box at the top of the browser where you type the URL.
Why it is important: Just like you need a physical address to find a house, you need a URL to find a website. The address bar is where you type the address to go to a website.
Simple explanation: Imagine you want to visit your friend's house. You need their address – like "12, Peace Avenue, Lagos." A URL is like that address, but for websites. For example, "www.google.com" is the address for Google. You type it in the address bar to go there.
Real-life example: To go to YouTube, you type "www.youtube.com" in the address bar.
School example: Your teacher tells you to go to "www.khanacademy.org" to do maths practice. You type that in the address bar.
Home example: Your parents type "www.accessbankplc.com" to check their bank account online.
Nigerian example: A student in Abuja types "www.nigerianews.com" to read the news.
Parts of a URL:
A URL has different parts:
https://www.google.com/search?q=internet
↑ ↑ ↑ ↑ ↑
| | | | |
Protocol Domain Path Query
(https) (www.google.com) (/search) (?q=internet)
- Protocol: How the browser talks to the website (https is secure)
- Domain: The website's name (google.com)
- Path: The specific page or folder (/search)
- Query: Extra information for the website (?q=internet)
Mini summary: A URL is the address of a website. You type it in the address bar to visit the website. URLs have different parts that tell the browser where to go.
Definition: A hyperlink (or just "link") is a word, phrase, or picture on a website that you can click to go to another page or website. Hyperlinks are what make the web a "web" – they connect pages together.
Why it is important: Without hyperlinks, the web would just be a bunch of separate pages. Hyperlinks let you jump from one page to another, making it easy to find information.
Simple explanation: Imagine you are reading a book and you see a word that you want to learn more about. You could flip to the index, find the page, and turn to it. A hyperlink is like magic – you just click on it and you go directly to the page!
Real-life example: On a news website, you click on a headline (which is a hyperlink) to read the full story.
School example: Your teacher sends you a link to a video. You click the link and the video opens.
Home example: You click on a picture on a cooking website to see the full recipe.
Nigerian example: A student clicks on a link to "JAMB registration" on a university website.
How to spot a hyperlink:
Hyperlinks are usually:
1. Blue text (but they can be other colours)
2. Underlined (sometimes)
3. The cursor changes to a hand when you hover over them
Example:
Click here to learn more about Nigeria.
(The words "here" are a hyperlink)
or:
[Learn more about Nigeria]
(A button or highlighted text)
Mini summary: Hyperlinks are clickable words or pictures that take you to another page. They are the "threads" that weave the web together!
Definition: A tab is a page within your browser. You can open multiple tabs at the same time to look at different websites without losing your place.
Why it is important: Tabs let you work on multiple things at once. You can have one tab for research, one tab for music, and one tab for email – all open at the same time!
Simple explanation: Imagine you have a notebook with many pages. You can flip between pages without losing your place. Tabs are like the pages of your notebook – each tab is a different page (website) you are looking at.
Real-life example: You are writing a school report. You have one tab open with the report, one tab with research information, and one tab with a dictionary – all in the same browser window!
School example: Your teacher has one tab for the lesson plan, one tab for the class website, and one tab for a video.
Home example: Your parents have one tab for online banking, one tab for shopping, and one tab for email.
Nigerian example: A student in Ibadan has one tab for research, one tab for music, and one tab for social media.
How to use tabs:
To open a new tab:
- Click the "+" button next to the current tab
- Or press Ctrl+T (Windows) or Cmd+T (Mac)
To switch tabs:
- Click on the tab you want to see
To close a tab:
- Click the "x" on the tab
- Or press Ctrl+W (Windows) or Cmd+W (Mac)
Illustration:
+--------------------------------------------------+
| [Tab 1] [Tab 2] [Tab 3] [ + ] |
+--------------------------------------------------+
| Tab 1: Google | Tab 2: YouTube | Tab 3: Email |
| (Content) | (Content) | (Content) |
+--------------------------------------------------+
Mini summary: Tabs let you have multiple websites open at the same time in one browser window. You can switch between them easily. They are like the pages of a notebook!
Definition: A bookmark (or favourite) is a saved link to a website. It lets you come back to a website later without having to type the address again.
Why it is important: You might find a website that you want to visit again – like a recipe, a game, or a learning site. Instead of remembering the URL, you can just save it as a bookmark and click it whenever you want to return.
Simple explanation: Imagine you find a beautiful flower in a park. You put a small flag next to it so you can find it again later. A bookmark is like that flag – it marks the spot so you can come back easily.
Real-life example: You find a website with lots of maths practice problems. You bookmark it so you can use it every day for practice.
School example: Your teacher shares a website with educational videos. You bookmark it so you can watch them later.
Home example: Your parents bookmark the website of the Nigerian Immigration Service for visa information.
Nigerian example: A small business owner bookmarks the website of the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) to check company registration.
How to bookmark a website:
Steps to add a bookmark:
1. Go to the website you want to save.
2. Click the star icon in the address bar (Chrome, Edge, Firefox).
3. Choose a name and folder for the bookmark.
4. Click "Done" or "Save".
To use a bookmark:
1. Click the "Bookmarks" menu (or star icon).
2. Click on the bookmark you want to open.
To manage bookmarks:
1. Go to "Bookmarks" > "Bookmark Manager".
2. You can organise, edit, or delete bookmarks.
Mini summary: Bookmarks save website addresses so you can visit them again quickly. They are like flags that mark your favourite places on the web!
Definition: Browser history is a list of all the websites you have visited. It helps you find a page you visited earlier.
Why it is important: Sometimes you visit a website and forget to bookmark it. You can use your browser history to find it again. It also helps you keep track of your online activity.
Simple explanation: Imagine you have a piece of paper where you write down every place you visit in a day. At the end of the day, you can look at the paper to see where you went. Browser history is like that paper – it records every website you visit.
Real-life example: You visited a website yesterday but forgot the address. You open your history, find it, and click it to visit again.
School example: Your teacher uses history to find a website she used in yesterday's lesson.
Home example: Your parents check the browser history to make sure you are visiting safe websites.
Nigerian example: A student uses history to find a past exam question they saw online.
How to view and clear history:
To view history:
- Press Ctrl+H (Windows) or Cmd+H (Mac)
- Or click "History" in the browser menu.
To clear history:
1. Go to "Settings" or "Tools".
2. Find "Privacy and Security".
3. Click "Clear browsing data".
4. Choose "History" and other data you want to clear.
5. Click "Clear data".
Why you might clear history:
- To keep your browsing private
- To free up storage space
- To protect your personal information
Mini summary: Browser history keeps a record of all websites you visit. You can use it to find a site again or clear it for privacy.
Definition: Cookies are small text files that websites save on your computer. They remember things about you – like your preferences, what you put in your shopping cart, or your login information.
Why it is important: Cookies make your experience on websites better. They remember you so you don't have to log in every time. They also help websites show you relevant information.
Simple explanation: Imagine you walk into a shop and the shopkeeper remembers your name and what you like to buy. The shopkeeper gives you a small card that says "Welcome back!" and reminds you of your favourite items. Cookies are like that small card – they help websites remember you.
Real-life example: When you visit a shopping website and put items in your cart, a cookie saves your cart so the items are still there when you come back.
School example: Your school's learning portal uses a cookie to keep you logged in so you don't have to type your password every time.
Home example: You visit a news website and it shows you news about Nigeria because a cookie remembers your location.
Nigerian example: You visit a weather website and it shows the weather in Lagos because a cookie remembers your city.
Types of cookies:
+-------------------+-----------------------------------------------+
| Type of Cookie | What it does |
+-------------------+-----------------------------------------------+
| Session Cookie | Remembers you while you are on the website. |
| | It is deleted when you close the browser. |
+-------------------+-----------------------------------------------+
| Persistent Cookie | Remembers you even after you close the |
| | browser. It is saved for a period of time. |
+-------------------+-----------------------------------------------+
| Third-party | Websites other than the one you are visiting |
| Cookie | use these to track you across different sites.|
+-------------------+-----------------------------------------------+
Mini summary: Cookies are small files that websites save on your computer to remember you and your preferences. They make your online experience easier and more personal.
Definition: Online safety is about protecting yourself and your information when you use the internet. It means being careful about what you share, who you talk to, and what you click on.
Why it is important: The internet is a wonderful place, but there are also people who want to trick you or steal your information. Learning to stay safe online is like learning to cross the road safely – it is a skill you need to have.
Simple explanation: Imagine you are walking in a big city. You wouldn't talk to strangers, give them your address, or follow them to unknown places. The same rules apply online – you should be careful about what you share and who you trust.
Real-life example: You get an email from someone you don't know asking for your password. You should never share your password with anyone.
School example: Your teacher tells you to only use trusted websites for your research. Not all websites are safe or accurate.
Home example: Your parents tell you to never share your real name, address, or phone number online.
Nigerian example: A bank in Nigeria warns customers about "phishing" emails that try to steal their bank details. Customers are told to never click on suspicious links.
Online safety tips:
Top 10 Online Safety Tips
1. Never share your passwords with anyone.
2. Use strong passwords (mix of letters, numbers, and symbols).
3. Be careful with what you share on social media.
4. Don't click on links or attachments from strangers.
5. Only shop on websites that have "https" in the address.
6. Use antivirus software and keep it updated.
7. Think before you post – once it is online, it is hard to remove.
8. Talk to a trusted adult if something makes you uncomfortable.
9. Be kind online – treat others the way you want to be treated.
10. Trust your gut – if something feels wrong, it probably is.
Mini summary: Online safety is about protecting yourself on the internet. Be careful with your information, avoid strangers, and always think before you click or share.
Definition: A search engine is a website that helps you find information on the internet. You type what you are looking for, and the search engine shows you a list of websites that match. Google is the most popular search engine.
Why it is important: There are billions of websites on the internet. Without a search engine, it would be almost impossible to find what you are looking for. Search engines are like giant indexes that help you find information quickly.
Simple explanation: Imagine you are in a huge library with millions of books. You are looking for a book about dinosaurs. Instead of walking through every aisle, you go to the librarian and say, "I need a book about dinosaurs." The librarian takes you to the right shelf. A search engine is like that librarian – it helps you find the information you need.
Real-life example: You want to find a recipe for Nigerian jollof rice. You go to Google and type "Nigerian jollof rice recipe." Google shows you hundreds of websites with recipes.
School example: Your teacher asks you to find information about the history of Nigeria. You use Google to search and find a website with the information.
Home example: Your parents use a search engine to find a plumber in your area.
Nigerian example: A student in Kano uses Google to search for "JAMB past questions" to prepare for their exams.
Popular search engines:
+-------------------+-----------------------------------------------+
| Search Engine | Description |
+-------------------+-----------------------------------------------+
| Google | The most popular search engine worldwide. |
+-------------------+-----------------------------------------------+
| Bing | Microsoft's search engine. |
+-------------------+-----------------------------------------------+
| DuckDuckGo | A search engine that focuses on privacy. |
+-------------------+-----------------------------------------------+
| Yahoo | One of the oldest search engines. |
+-------------------+-----------------------------------------------+
Mini summary: A search engine helps you find information on the internet. You type what you are looking for, and the search engine shows you a list of relevant websites.
In this final lesson, we will put together everything we have learned in Module One. Let's pretend we are Titi, using the internet for her school project.
Step 1: Open a web browser (like Google Chrome) on your computer.
Step 2: In the address bar, type the URL of a search engine, like "www.google.com". Press Enter.
Step 3: Type your search query (what you are looking for) in the search box. For example, "History of Lagos." Press Enter.
Step 4: Look at the search results. Click on a hyperlink to visit a website that looks useful.
Step 5: If you want to keep the website for later, click the bookmark star icon to save it.
Step 6: Open a new tab to search for another topic, like "Pictures of Lagos." You can switch between tabs to look at different information.
Step 7: If you want to find a website you visited earlier, check your history.
Step 8: Remember to stay safe online – don't share personal information and only visit trusted websites.
Step 9: Close your browser when you are finished, and be proud of yourself for becoming an internet explorer!
Mini summary: Using the internet is easy when you know the basics. Open a browser, type a URL, use tabs, save bookmarks, search for information, and stay safe. You are now ready to explore the online world!
1. Turn on your computer or phone.
2. Find the icon for your web browser (like Chrome, Edge, or Firefox).
3. Click or tap the icon to open the browser.
4. Look at the top of the screen – you will see the address bar.
5. Click on the address bar (it usually says "Search or type a URL").
6. Type the address of the website you want to visit (like "www.google.com").
7. Press Enter on your keyboard.
8. The website will load on your screen.
1. Go to the website you want to save.
2. Look for the star icon in the address bar (usually on the right side).
3. Click the star icon.
4. A box will appear – you can change the name or folder.
5. Click "Done" or "Save".
6. The website is now saved as a bookmark.
7. To open it later, click the "Bookmarks" menu and find your saved bookmark.
1. Look at the top of your browser window.
2. Next to your current tab, you will see a "+" button.
3. Click the "+" button.
4. A new, empty tab will appear.
5. In the address bar of the new tab, type a new website address.
6. Press Enter to go to that website.
7. You can click between tabs to switch between websites.
1. Click the three dots or three lines in the top right corner of your browser.
2. Choose "Settings" or "History" from the menu.
3. Look for "Privacy and Security" or "Clear browsing data".
4. Click "Clear browsing data".
5. Choose what you want to clear (History, Cookies, Cache, etc.).
6. Choose the time range (e.g., "All time").
7. Click "Clear data" or "Clear now".
8. Your history is now cleared.
The Internet is like a spider web:
┌───────┐
│ CompA │───────┐
└───┬───┘ │
│ │
│ ┌───▼───┐
└───────│ CompB │
└───┬───┘
│
┌───▼───┐
│ CompC │
└───────┘
Each computer is connected to others.
Information travels along the connections.
Sending a message through the internet:
Step 1: Split into packets
"Hello" ──▶ Packet 1: "Hel"
Packet 2: "lo"
Step 2: Packets travel
Packet 1: ───────────────┐
Packet 2: ───────────────┼───▶ Destination
│
Step 3: Reassemble at destination
Packet 1: "Hel"
Packet 2: "lo"
Result: "Hello"
+-------------------------------------------------------------------+
| [←] [→] [⟳] Address Bar: [www.google.com] [★] [⋮] |
+-------------------------------------------------------------------+
| [Tab 1] [Tab 2] [+] |
+-------------------------------------------------------------------+
| |
| Website Content |
| |
| |
+-------------------------------------------------------------------+
https://www.example.com:443/path/page.html?query=hello#section
↑ ↑ ↑ ↑ ↑ ↑ ↑
| | | | | | |
Protocol Domain Port Path Filename Query Fragment
(https) (example.com) (443) (/path) (page.html)(?query=hello)(#section)
- Protocol: How the browser talks to the website
- Domain: The website's name
- Port: The doorway into the website (usually hidden)
- Path: The folder on the website
- Filename: The specific file
- Query: Extra information
- Fragment: A specific part of the page
Text with a hyperlink:
"Click here to learn more."
The word "here" is a hyperlink.
When you click it, you go to a new page.
Or:
[Learn More] ← This button is a hyperlink.
Browser with multiple tabs:
+-------------------------------------------------------------------+
| [Google] [YouTube] [Email] [ + ] |
+-------------------------------------------------------------------+
| Google content is shown here |
| because Google tab is active. |
| |
+-------------------------------------------------------------------+
The active tab (Google) is highlighted.
Other tabs (YouTube, Email) are in the background.
You can click a tab to switch to it.
Browser History
Step 1: You visit websites.
Website A ──────┐
Website B ──────┼───▶ History records them
Website C ──────┘
Step 2: You open history (Ctrl+H).
+---------------------------------------+
| History |
| Today |
| - Website A 10:00 AM |
| - Website B 10:30 AM |
| - Website C 11:00 AM |
| Yesterday |
| - Website D ... |
+---------------------------------------+
Step 3: You click a website to visit it again.
| Feature | Internet | World Wide Web |
|---|---|---|
| What it is | A network of computers | A collection of websites |
| Physical or virtual? | Physical (cables, servers, routers) | Virtual (websites, videos, pictures) |
| When was it created? | 1960s | 1989 |
| What does it do? | Connects computers | Shares information |
| Analogy | Roads and highways | Buildings and shops |
| Browser | Developer | Platform | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Google Chrome | Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS | Fast, many extensions | |
| Mozilla Firefox | Mozilla | Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS | Privacy focused |
| Microsoft Edge | Microsoft | Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS | Built‑in on Windows |
| Safari | Apple | Mac, iOS | Built‑in on Apple devices |
| Part | What it does | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Domain | Name of the website | google.com |
| Path | Folder on the website | /search |
| Query | Extra information for the website | ?q=internet |
| Fragment | Specific part of the page | #section2 |
Congratulations! You have completed Module One of the Living Online Fundamentals course. This was a big step, and you should be very proud of yourself!
In this module, you learned what the internet is and how it works. You discovered the difference between the internet and the World Wide Web. You learned how to use a web browser to visit websites, and you practiced using URLs, hyperlinks, and tabs.
You also learned how to save your favourite websites using bookmarks, and you learned how to manage your browser history and cookies. You discovered the importance of online safety and learned how to use search engines to find information.
All these skills are the foundation of living online. You are now ready to explore the internet with confidence and curiosity!
Remember: practice is the key. Keep using the internet for everyday tasks, and soon these skills will become second nature to you.
In Module Two, you will learn even more about the internet – including advanced searching techniques, using social media, and staying safe online. But that is for Module Two!
For now, take a moment to celebrate what you have achieved. You are now officially an internet explorer! 🎉
Match the terms on the left with the correct descriptions on the right.
| Term | Description |
|---|---|
| 1. Internet | A. The address of a website |
| 2. Web Browser | B. A program that lets you view websites |
| 3. URL | C. A giant network of computers |
| 4. Hyperlink | D. A saved link to a website |
| 5. Bookmark | E. A clickable link to another page |
| 6. History | F. A list of websites you have visited |
| 7. Cookie | G. A file that websites save to remember you |
| 8. Search Engine | H. A website that helps you find information |
Answers: 1-C, 2-B, 3-A, 4-E, 5-D, 6-F, 7-G, 8-H
Activity: Internet Explorer Challenge
In groups of 3–4 students, complete the following tasks. Each group should have a computer or mobile device with internet access.
Activity: My First Internet Research
Use the internet to research a topic of your choice – it can be a country, a sport, a famous person, or anything you are interested in.
Steps:
Project: My Personal Internet Guide
Create a simple guide for someone who has never used the internet before. Your guide should explain the basics of the internet in simple terms.
Requirements:
Present your guide to the class either as a written document, a poster, or a presentation.
Assignment Title: Internet Basics Practice
Instructions:
Challenge: The Internet Expert
You are now an internet expert! Your challenge is to help someone who is completely new to the internet.
Your tasks:
Congratulations on completing Module One of the Living Online Fundamentals course! You have learned the basics of the internet, web browsers, URLs, hyperlinks, tabs, bookmarks, history, cookies, search engines, and online safety.
In Module Two, you will go even deeper. You will learn:
To prepare for Module Two:
See you in Module Two – where you will become an even more confident and skilled internet user! 🎉
Welcome to Module Two of the Living Online Fundamentals course! You have already completed Module One, where you learned the basics of the internet, web browsers, URLs, hyperlinks, tabs, bookmarks, and cookies. You learned what the internet is and how to use a browser to visit websites. Now, in Module Two, you will learn how to become a powerful internet user!
Think of it like this: In Module One, you learned how to walk on the internet. In Module Two, you will learn how to run, jump, and fly! You will learn how to search for information like a detective, communicate with people around the world, use email like a professional, and protect yourself from online dangers.
This module is written in very simple English, with lots of stories, examples, and fun pictures made with text. Every new idea is explained slowly and clearly, just like a teacher helping a curious 10‑year‑old. So take a deep breath, get ready to learn, and let's continue our adventure into the digital world! 🌍
By the time you finish this module, you will be able to:
Remember Titi, the 10‑year‑old girl from Lagos who used the internet for her school project? Well, Titi has been busy! She has become very good at using the internet. But one day, she faced a new challenge.
Her teacher gave the class a new assignment: "Find information about climate change in Nigeria. But I want you to use reliable sources – not just any website. I also want you to work together with a partner, share your research, and present it to the class."
Titi knew she could find information – but how would she know which websites to trust? How would she share her research with her partner? And how would she communicate with her partner if they couldn't meet in person?
Titi decided to learn more. She discovered advanced search techniques – using special words like "AND" and "OR" to get better results. She learned how to evaluate sources – checking who wrote the information and when it was published. She learned how to use email to send her research to her partner, and Google Docs to work on the same document together, even though they were in different places.
Titi also learned about online safety. She learned how to protect her personal information, how to spot a fake email or website, and how to be kind online. She felt confident and ready to tackle any online challenge!
And that is exactly what you are going to learn in this module too! Let's join Titi and become powerful, safe, and smart internet users! 🚀
Definition: Advanced searching means using special words and symbols to get better, more accurate results from a search engine. It is like using a magnifying glass to find exactly what you are looking for.
Why it is important: When you type a simple word into Google, you might get millions of results. Advanced searching helps you find exactly what you need faster and with less confusion.
Simple explanation: Imagine you are looking for a specific book in a huge library. Instead of walking around and looking at every shelf, you ask the librarian for help. The librarian knows exactly where the book is. Advanced search techniques are like that librarian – they help you find the right information quickly.
Real-life example: A student is researching the history of Lagos. Instead of just searching "Lagos," they search "history of Lagos" AND "colonial era" – this gives them more specific results.
School example: A teacher asks students to find information about Nigerian independence. Students use advanced search techniques to find reliable sources.
Home example: Your parents want to find a recipe for Jollof rice. They search "Jollof rice recipe" AND "Nigerian" to get authentic recipes.
Nigerian example: A business owner in Kano wants to find suppliers for groundnut oil. They search "groundnut oil supplier" AND "Nigeria" to get local results.
Advanced search techniques:
+-------------------+-----------------------------------------------+
| Technique | What it does |
+-------------------+-----------------------------------------------+
| Use quotes ("") | Searches for an exact phrase |
| Example: | "history of Lagos" |
+-------------------+-----------------------------------------------+
| Use AND | Finds results with both terms |
| Example: | Lagos AND history |
+-------------------+-----------------------------------------------+
| Use OR | Finds results with either term |
| Example: | Lagos OR Abuja |
+-------------------+-----------------------------------------------+
| Use minus (-) | Excludes a word from the search |
| Example: | Lagos -traffic |
+-------------------+-----------------------------------------------+
| Use site: | Searches only one website |
| Example: | site:nigerianews.com Lagos |
+-------------------+-----------------------------------------------+
| Use filetype: | Searches for a specific file type |
| Example: | climate change filetype:pdf |
+-------------------+-----------------------------------------------+
Mini summary: Advanced searching helps you find exactly what you are looking for. Use quotes for exact phrases, AND/OR to combine words, and minus to exclude words. You can also search specific websites or file types.
Definition: Evaluating online information means checking if a website or piece of information is trustworthy, accurate, and reliable. Not everything on the internet is true!
Why it is important: Anyone can create a website and write anything they want – even if it is not true. Learning to evaluate information helps you avoid fake news and make good decisions.
Simple explanation: Imagine someone walks up to you on the street and tells you that the moon is made of cheese. Would you believe them? Probably not! You would want to check with a trusted source, like a teacher or a book. The same goes for the internet – you need to check if the information is true before you believe it.
Real-life example: A student finds a website that says "Lagos was founded in 1900." They check another source and find that Lagos was actually founded much earlier. They learn not to trust every website.
School example: A teacher shows students two websites with different information about a topic. Students learn to check which one is more reliable.
Home example: Your parents read a news story online and check it with another news website to make sure it is true.
Nigerian example: A student researching JAMB requirements finds a website that says "JAMB 2026 starts in March." They check the official JAMB website to confirm.
Questions to ask when evaluating information:
1. Who wrote this information?
- Is it a known expert or organisation?
- Is the author's name and contact information provided?
2. When was it published?
- Is the information up‑to‑date?
- Has it been updated recently?
3. Why was it written?
- Is it to inform, persuade, or sell something?
- Is the author trying to convince you of something?
4. Where was it published?
- Is it a reputable website (like a university, government, or
well‑known news organisation)?
- Does the URL look trustworthy (.edu, .gov, .org)?
5. How does it compare?
- Does the information match what other sources say?
- Are there references or links to other sources?
Mini summary: Not everything on the internet is true. Always ask: who, when, why, where, and how? Check multiple sources before you believe something.
Definition: Social media are websites and apps that let people share information, pictures, videos, and messages with friends, family, and the world. Examples include Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, TikTok, and LinkedIn.
Why it is important: Social media helps you stay connected with people you know and meet new people who share your interests. It is also used for news, education, and even business!
Simple explanation: Imagine you have a big notice board where you can put up pictures, write messages, and share news. Your friends can see your posts and write back. Social media is like a giant, digital notice board that connects millions of people!
Real-life example: Titi posts a picture of her project on Instagram. Her friends see it and leave comments congratulating her.
School example: A student joins a WhatsApp group for their class. The teacher shares homework assignments and reminders.
Home example: Your parents share family photos on Facebook so relatives in other cities can see them.
Nigerian example: A business owner in Lagos uses Instagram to advertise their products. Customers can see pictures and message them directly.
Popular social media platforms:
+-------------------+-----------------------------------------------+
| Platform | What it is used for |
+-------------------+-----------------------------------------------+
| Facebook | Sharing updates, photos, and connecting |
| | with friends and family. |
+-------------------+-----------------------------------------------+
| Instagram | Sharing photos and short videos. |
+-------------------+-----------------------------------------------+
| WhatsApp | Sending messages, voice notes, and making |
| | calls to individuals and groups. |
+-------------------+-----------------------------------------------+
| TikTok | Creating and sharing short, fun videos. |
+-------------------+-----------------------------------------------+
| LinkedIn | Professional networking – like a CV online. |
+-------------------+-----------------------------------------------+
| X (formerly | Sharing short updates (tweets) and news. |
| Twitter) | |
+-------------------+-----------------------------------------------+
Mini summary: Social media helps you connect with others, share information, and learn new things. But always use it responsibly and safely.
Definition: Social media safety means protecting yourself and your information when using social media. Etiquette means being kind and respectful online.
Why it is important: Social media can be a wonderful place, but there are also risks – like scams, cyberbullying, and sharing too much personal information. Knowing how to stay safe and be respectful makes social media a better place for everyone.
Simple explanation: Imagine you are at a party. You would be careful about what you say, who you talk to, and what you share. The same rules apply on social media – think before you post and be kind to others.
Real-life example: A student posts a mean comment about a classmate on social media. The classmate feels hurt. The student learns that online words can hurt just as much as offline words.
School example: A teacher reminds students to only accept friend requests from people they know in real life.
Home example: Your parents talk to you about never sharing your home address, phone number, or school name on social media.
Nigerian example: A business owner receives a message from a stranger asking for their bank details. They know it is a scam and do not reply.
Social media safety tips:
1. Never share your password with anyone.
2. Set your privacy settings to "friends only" or "private."
3. Only accept friend or follow requests from people you know.
4. Think before you post – would you be happy if your teacher or
parents saw it?
5. Don't share personal information like your address, phone number,
or school name.
6. Be kind – treat others the way you want to be treated.
7. Don't believe everything you see – people can pretend to be
someone else.
8. If someone is mean to you online, tell a trusted adult.
9. Don't share your location in real time.
10. Use strong, unique passwords for each social media account.
Mini summary: Be safe and kind on social media. Think before you post, protect your personal information, and treat others with respect.
Definition: Email (short for "electronic mail") is a way to send and receive messages over the internet. You can send text, pictures, and files to anyone with an email address.
Why it is important: Email is one of the most important ways people communicate online. It is used for school, work, business, and staying in touch with friends and family.
Simple explanation: Imagine you have a magic mailbox. Instead of waiting for the postman, your mail appears instantly on your computer. You can send letters to anyone in the world, and they get it in seconds. That is email!
Real-life example: Titi sends an email to her teacher asking about a homework question. The teacher replies within an hour.
School example: A school sends an email to parents about an upcoming school event.
Home example: Your parents receive an email from the bank with their monthly statement.
Nigerian example: A job seeker sends an email with their CV to a company in Abuja. The company replies to invite them for an interview.
Parts of an email address:
Email address: titi@gmail.com
─────┬───── ───┬─── ───┬───
│ │ │
username @ domain (gmail.com)
- Username: Your unique name (titi)
- @: The "at" symbol – it separates your name from the domain
- Domain: The service provider (gmail.com, yahoo.com, etc.)
Mini summary: Email is a way to send messages and files over the internet. You need an email address to send and receive emails.
Definition: Setting up an email account means creating your own email address so you can send and receive emails. You can get a free email address from services like Gmail, Yahoo, or Outlook.
Why it is important: Having your own email address is like having your own postal address online. It is how people can reach you and how you can communicate with the world.
Simple explanation: Imagine you need a house address so people can send you mail. An email address is like that – it is your "digital address" where people can send you messages.
Real-life example: Titi wants to send a message to her cousin in another city. She sets up a Gmail account so she can send emails to her cousin.
School example: A student sets up an email account to receive homework assignments from the teacher.
Home example: Your parents set up an email account to receive news and updates from your school.
Nigerian example: A small business owner sets up a Gmail account to communicate with customers and suppliers.
How to set up a free email account (Gmail):
Steps:
1. Open your web browser and go to gmail.com.
2. Click "Create account" or "Sign up."
3. Fill in your first name, last name, and choose a username.
- Choose something professional (e.g., firstname.lastname)
4. Create a strong password (mix of letters, numbers, and symbols).
5. Enter your phone number (for account recovery).
6. Enter a recovery email address (optional).
7. Provide your date of birth and gender.
8. Agree to the terms of service.
9. Click "Next" and follow the instructions.
10. Your new email address is ready to use!
Your new email address: username@gmail.com
Mini summary: You can set up a free email account with Gmail, Yahoo, or Outlook. Choose a professional username and a strong password.
Definition: Sending an email is like sending a letter – you write a message, add the recipient's email address, and click "Send." Receiving an email means reading the messages that people send to you.
Why it is important: Knowing how to send and receive emails is a basic skill you need for school, work, and everyday life.
Simple explanation: Imagine you are writing a letter to a friend. You put the letter in an envelope, write the address, and put it in the postbox. With email, it is even faster – you write the message, type the email address, click "Send," and the message arrives instantly!
Real-life example: Titi writes an email to her teacher: "Dear Mr. Ade, I have a question about the homework..." She clicks "Send" and the teacher replies later.
School example: A student sends an email to the school librarian to reserve a book.
Home example: Your parents send an email to the landlord about a repair issue.
Nigerian example: A customer sends an email to a shop in Onitsha asking about product availability.
How to send an email:
Steps to send an email:
1. Log in to your email account.
2. Click "Compose" or "New Message."
3. In the "To" field, type the recipient's email address.
4. In the "Subject" field, write a short title (like "Homework Question").
5. Write your message in the main body.
6. (Optional) Click "Attach" to add files (pictures, documents).
7. Click "Send."
Parts of an email:
+------------------------------------------+
| To: recipent@example.com |
| Subject: Homework Question |
| ────────────────────────────────────── |
| Dear Mr. Ade, |
| |
| I have a question about the homework... |
| |
| Thank you, |
| Titi |
+------------------------------------------+
Mini summary: To send an email, type the recipient's address, write a subject, compose your message, and click "Send." To receive emails, just check your inbox.
Definition: Email etiquette is the set of rules for writing polite, clear, and professional emails. It is about being respectful and communicating effectively.
Why it is important: A well‑written email makes a good impression. It shows that you are professional, respectful, and clear in your communication.
Simple explanation: Imagine you are writing a letter to a grandparent or a teacher. You would use polite language, proper spelling, and a friendly tone. Email etiquette is the same – it is about writing emails that people will appreciate and take seriously.
Real-life example: Titi sends an email to her teacher with a clear subject line ("Homework Question"), a proper greeting ("Dear Mr. Ade"), and a polite closing ("Thank you, Titi").
School example: A student sends a thank‑you email to a guest speaker who visited the class.
Home example: Your parents send a polite email to a neighbour about a community issue.
Nigerian example: A job seeker sends a professional email with their CV to a company, with a clear subject line and a polite message.
Email etiquette tips:
1. Always have a clear, specific subject line.
- Good: "Question about Maths Homework"
- Bad: "Hi"
2. Use a proper greeting.
- Good: "Dear Mr. Ade" or "Hello Dr. Bello"
- Bad: "Hey" or no greeting at all
3. Write clearly and simply.
- Use short sentences and paragraphs.
- Avoid using all capital letters (IT LOOKS LIKE SHOUTING).
4. Be polite and respectful.
- Use "please" and "thank you."
- Never write angry emails – take a break and cool down.
5. Check your spelling and grammar.
- Read your email before you send it.
6. Use a professional closing.
- Good: "Thank you," "Sincerely," "Best regards"
- Bad: "See ya" or no closing
7. Don't use too many emojis in professional emails.
8. Reply to emails promptly (within 24 hours).
9. Don't share private or sensitive information.
10. Keep it to the point – don't write long, rambling messages.
Mini summary: Email etiquette is about being polite, clear, and professional. Use clear subject lines, proper greetings, polite language, and check your spelling.
Definition: Instant messaging (IM) is a way to send text messages in real time over the internet. Apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, and Messenger allow you to chat instantly with friends and family. Video calls let you see and talk to people face‑to‑face over the internet, using apps like Zoom, Google Meet, and WhatsApp.
Why it is important: Instant messaging and video calls let you communicate with people quickly and personally. You can ask a question, share news, or have a meeting – all without being in the same place.
Simple explanation: Imagine you and your friend have walkie‑talkies. You can talk to each other instantly. Instant messaging is like that – but with text. Video calls are like a magic window where you can see and talk to your friend, even if they are far away!
Real-life example: Titi uses WhatsApp to message her cousin in London. She sends a voice note and her cousin replies with a video call to say hello.
School example: A student joins a Google Meet video call with their teacher for a tutoring session.
Home example: Your family uses Zoom to have a video call with relatives in another state.
Nigerian example: A business team in Lagos uses Microsoft Teams to have a meeting with their colleagues in Abuja.
Popular instant messaging and video call apps:
+-------------------+-----------------------------------------------+
| App | What it does |
+-------------------+-----------------------------------------------+
| WhatsApp | Text messages, voice notes, calls, video calls|
+-------------------+-----------------------------------------------+
| Telegram | Text messages, voice calls, large group chats |
+-------------------+-----------------------------------------------+
| Zoom | Video meetings, webinars, screen sharing |
+-------------------+-----------------------------------------------+
| Google Meet | Video meetings, integrated with Google |
+-------------------+-----------------------------------------------+
| Microsoft Teams | Video meetings, chat, collaboration tools |
+-------------------+-----------------------------------------------+
| Signal | Secure, private messaging and calls |
+-------------------+-----------------------------------------------+
Mini summary: Instant messaging lets you send text messages in real time. Video calls let you see and talk to people face‑to‑face over the internet. They are great for staying connected!
Definition: Online collaboration tools are websites and apps that let people work together on the same project, even if they are in different places. Examples include Google Docs, Google Sheets, and Microsoft 365 Online.
Why it is important: In school and work, you often need to work with others. Online collaboration tools let you share documents, edit them together, and see changes in real time – just like working in the same room!
Simple explanation: Imagine you and a friend are working on a poster. Instead of passing the poster back and forth, you both work on it at the same time – you add pictures, your friend adds text, and you can see each other's changes instantly. That is what online collaboration tools do!
Real-life example: Titi and her partner use Google Docs to work on their school project. They both edit the same document at the same time from their own homes.
School example: A group of students works on a science project using Google Slides to create a presentation together.
Home example: Your family uses Google Sheets to plan a family event – everyone adds their ideas and tasks.
Nigerian example: A business team in different cities uses Microsoft 365 to work on a sales report together in real time.
Popular online collaboration tools:
+-------------------+-----------------------------------------------+
| Tool | What it does |
+-------------------+-----------------------------------------------+
| Google Docs | Create and edit documents together. |
+-------------------+-----------------------------------------------+
| Google Sheets | Create and edit spreadsheets together. |
+-------------------+-----------------------------------------------+
| Google Slides | Create and edit presentations together. |
+-------------------+-----------------------------------------------+
| Microsoft 365 | Word, Excel, PowerPoint online – collaborate |
| Online | in real time. |
+-------------------+-----------------------------------------------+
| Trello | Manage projects with boards and lists. |
+-------------------+-----------------------------------------------+
| Notion | All‑in‑one workspace for notes, tasks, and |
| | projects. |
+-------------------+-----------------------------------------------+
Mini summary: Online collaboration tools let you work with others on the same documents, spreadsheets, and projects in real time, even if you are in different places.
Definition: Your digital footprint is the trail of information you leave behind when you use the internet. It includes everything you post, share, like, comment on, and search for. Think of it as your online "fingerprint."
Why it is important: Your digital footprint is permanent – it can be seen by others, including schools, employers, and even strangers. What you post online today could affect you years from now.
Simple explanation: Imagine you are walking in the sand. Every step leaves a footprint behind. The internet is like that – every time you visit a website, post a comment, or like a picture, you leave a "digital footprint." And unlike sand, these footprints never wash away!
Real-life example: A student posts a silly picture online. Years later, a university sees it and decides not to admit the student because of the picture.
School example: A teacher talks to students about being careful with what they post online. She explains that colleges and employers often check social media before making decisions.
Home example: Your parents remind you to only post things that you would be happy for your grandmother to see.
Nigerian example: A job seeker's application is rejected because the employer found inappropriate posts on their social media.
Tips for managing your digital footprint:
1. Think before you post – would you be happy if your teacher,
parents, or future boss saw it?
2. Use privacy settings – make sure only friends can see your posts.
3. Be careful with pictures – once you share a picture, you lose
control of it.
4. Don't share personal information like your address, phone number,
or school name.
5. Be kind – negative comments and bullying can hurt your reputation.
6. Use a professional email address and username.
7. Google yourself – see what information about you is public.
8. Be careful with what you like, comment on, and share – it all
becomes part of your footprint.
9. Remember: the internet is forever. Once something is online, it
is very hard to remove.
10. Build a positive digital footprint – share your achievements,
good grades, and positive contributions.
Mini summary: Your digital footprint is your online reputation. Be careful with what you post – it can affect your future. Build a positive footprint by sharing good things and being kind.
Definition: Cyberbullying is when someone uses the internet to hurt, threaten, or embarrass another person. It can happen through social media, email, instant messaging, or online games.
Why it is important: Cyberbullying can make people feel sad, scared, and alone. It is important to know how to recognise it and what to do if it happens to you or someone you know.
Simple explanation: Imagine someone is being mean to you at school – calling you names, spreading rumours, or leaving you out. Cyberbullying is the same thing, but it happens online. It can be even worse because it can happen anytime, anywhere, even when you are at home.
Real-life example: A student receives mean messages on WhatsApp from someone in their class. The messages make them feel sad and they don't want to go to school.
School example: A teacher teaches students about cyberbullying and encourages them to report it if they see it.
Home example: Your parents talk to you about cyberbullying and tell you to come to them if anyone is mean to you online.
Nigerian example: A teenager is being bullied on Instagram by an anonymous account. They tell their parents and the parents help them report it.
What to do if you experience cyberbullying:
1. Don't respond – responding often makes it worse.
2. Take a screenshot – save the evidence.
3. Block the person – stop them from contacting you.
4. Report it – use the "Report" or "Block" features on the app.
5. Tell a trusted adult – a parent, teacher, or counsellor.
6. Don't be silent – talking about it helps.
7. Remember: it is not your fault – cyberbullying is never your fault.
8. Take a break – step away from the internet for a while.
9. Be kind to yourself – do things you enjoy and spend time with
people who care about you.
10. If you see someone else being bullied, speak up and support them.
Mini summary: Cyberbullying is using the internet to hurt others. If it happens to you, don't respond, save evidence, block the person, and tell a trusted adult. It is never your fault.
In this final lesson, we will put together everything we have learned in Module Two. Let's pretend we are Titi, using all her online skills for a school project.
Step 1: Research – Titi uses a search engine with advanced techniques (like using quotes for exact phrases) to find reliable information about climate change in Nigeria.
Step 2: Evaluate – She checks the websites to make sure they are trustworthy. She looks at the author, the publication date, and compares with other sources.
Step 3: Collaborate – Titi shares her findings with her partner using Google Docs. They work on the document together in real time.
Step 4: Communicate – They use WhatsApp to discuss ideas and share notes. They have a video call on Google Meet to practice their presentation.
Step 5: Share – They send their completed project to the teacher via email with a clear subject line and a polite message.
Step 6: Stay safe – Throughout the process, Titi keeps her personal information private, uses strong passwords, and is kind and respectful online.
Mini summary: Using the internet for learning is easy when you know the skills. Search effectively, evaluate sources, collaborate with others, communicate clearly, and stay safe. You are now a powerful online citizen!
1. Open Google in your web browser.
2. Type your search query in the search box.
3. Use quotes for exact phrases: "history of Lagos"
4. Use AND to combine terms: Lagos AND history
5. Use OR to include alternatives: Lagos OR Abuja
6. Use minus to exclude words: Lagos -traffic
7. Use site: to search a specific site: site:bbc.com Nigeria
8. Use filetype: to find specific files: climate filetype:pdf
9. Press Enter to see your results.
1. Open your email account (Gmail, Yahoo, Outlook).
2. Click "Compose" or "New Message."
3. In the "To" field, type the recipient's email address.
4. In the "Subject" field, write a clear, specific subject line.
5. Start with a greeting: "Dear Mr. Ade" or "Hello Dr. Bello."
6. Write your message clearly and politely.
7. Use "please" and "thank you" where appropriate.
8. End with a closing: "Thank you," "Sincerely," or "Best regards."
9. Type your name.
10. Read the email to check for mistakes.
11. Click "Send."
1. Open Google Docs in your browser.
2. Create a new document or open an existing one.
3. Click the "Share" button (top right corner).
4. Enter the email addresses of the people you want to share with.
5. Choose their permission level: "Viewer," "Commenter," or "Editor."
6. Add a message if you like.
7. Click "Send."
8. The people you shared with will receive an email with the link.
9. They can now view, comment on, or edit the document.
1. Open a search engine (like Google).
2. Type your full name in quotes: "Titi Adebayo"
3. Press Enter and see what comes up.
4. If you have a common name, add your city or school.
5. Look at the results – what information is public?
6. Check your social media accounts – what can others see?
7. Review your privacy settings.
8. Adjust your settings to limit what others can see.
9. Think about what you might want to remove or change.
10. Repeat this every few months to stay aware.
Simple Search (too many results):
"Lagos" → millions of results
Advanced Search (fewer, better results):
"history of Lagos" → fewer, more relevant results
Using AND:
"Lagos AND history" → results with both words
Using OR:
"Lagos OR Abuja" → results with either word
Using minus:
"Lagos -traffic" → results without "traffic"
+------------------------------------------+
| WEBSITE EVALUATION CHECKLIST |
+------------------------------------------+
| Who wrote it? |
| [ ] Author name is provided |
| [ ] Author is an expert |
+------------------------------------------+
| When was it written? |
| [ ] Date is provided |
| [ ] Information is up‑to‑date |
+------------------------------------------+
| Why was it written? |
| [ ] To inform (not to sell or trick) |
+------------------------------------------+
| Where was it published? |
| [ ] Trustworthy website (.edu, .gov) |
+------------------------------------------+
| How does it compare? |
| [ ] Other sources say the same thing |
+------------------------------------------+
+--------------------------------------------------+
| To: teacher@school.edu |
| Subject: Question about Homework |
| ────────────────────────────────────────────── |
| Dear Mr. Ade, |
| |
| I hope you are well. I have a question about |
| the homework you assigned on Monday. I am not |
| sure about question number 5. Could you please |
| explain it to me? |
| |
| Thank you for your time. |
| |
| Yours sincerely, |
| Titi Adebayo |
| Class 5A |
+--------------------------------------------------+
Your Digital Footprint:
Every time you go online, you leave a trail:
Post a picture ─────────────┐
Like a video ───────────────┼───▶ DIGITAL FOOTPRINT
Comment on a post ──────────┤
Search for something ───────┤
Send an email ──────────────┘
Others can see:
- What you post
- What you like
- Who you follow
- What you search for
- Where you go online
Your footprint is permanent!
Cyberbullying happens online:
Person sends mean message ─────▶ You receive it
What to do:
1. Don't respond
2. Take a screenshot
3. Block the person
4. Report it
5. Tell a trusted adult
Remember: It is not your fault!
+------------------------------------------+
| SOCIAL MEDIA SAFETY TIPS |
+------------------------------------------+
| ✅ Set your profile to PRIVATE |
| ✅ Only accept requests from people you |
| know in real life |
| ✅ Don't share your address or phone |
| ✅ Think before you post |
| ✅ Be kind and respectful |
| ✅ Report anything that makes you |
| uncomfortable |
| ❌ Don't share your password |
| ❌ Don't post your location |
| ❌ Don't respond to strangers |
+------------------------------------------+
Working together online:
Student A ─────┐
├────▶ Google Docs ─────▶ Project
Student B ─────┘
Student A types in Lagos
Student B types in Abuja
Both see the same document
Both can edit at the same time
Result: A completed project in half the time!
| Feature | Simple Search | Advanced Search |
|---|---|---|
| Search term | Lagos | "history of Lagos" |
| Number of results | Millions | Thousands (more specific) |
| Relevance | Mixed | Highly relevant |
| Time to find good information | Long | Short |
| Techniques used | None | Quotes, AND, OR, minus, site: |
| Platform | Best For | Age Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Connecting with friends and family | 13+ | |
| Sharing photos and videos | 13+ | |
| Messaging and group chats | 16+ | |
| TikTok | Short, fun videos | 13+ |
| Professional networking | 16+ | |
| X (Twitter) | News and short updates | 13+ |
| Feature | Instant Messaging | |
|---|---|---|
| Speed | Minutes to hours | Instant (seconds) |
| Formal or Informal | More formal | Informal |
| Attachments | Easy | Possible, but limited |
| Group chats | Possible, but less common | Very common |
| History | Permanent (saved) | Often saved, but can be deleted |
| Best for | Professional communication | Quick, casual communication |
Congratulations! You have completed Module Two of the Living Online Fundamentals course. This was a big and important step, and you should be very proud of yourself!
In this module, you learned how to become a powerful internet user. You learned advanced search techniques to find information quickly and accurately. You learned how to evaluate online information to tell if it is true and trustworthy.
You discovered social media and how to use it safely and responsibly. You learned how to set up and use an email account professionally. You practiced email etiquette – writing clear, polite, and professional emails.
You learned how to use instant messaging and video calls to communicate with others in real time. You discovered online collaboration tools like Google Docs that let you work with others from anywhere.
You learned about your digital footprint – the permanent trail of information you leave online – and why it is important to be careful with what you post. You learned about cyberbullying and how to handle it if it happens to you or someone you know.
You also learned about online etiquette – being kind and respectful online. All these skills make you a smart, safe, and responsible internet user!
Remember: practice is the key. Keep using these skills in your everyday life, and soon they will become second nature to you.
In Module Three, you will learn even more about living online – including digital citizenship, online banking, e‑government services, and more advanced safety tips. But that is for Module Three!
For now, take a moment to celebrate what you have achieved. You are now a powerful, safe, and smart internet user! 🎉
Match the terms on the left with the correct descriptions on the right.
| Term | Description |
|---|---|
| 1. Advanced Searching | A. Checking if information is true |
| 2. Evaluate | B. Using special techniques to find information |
| 3. Social Media | C. A way to send messages over the internet |
| 4. Email | D. The trail of information you leave online |
| 5. Digital Footprint | E. Using the internet to hurt someone |
| 6. Cyberbullying | F. Apps that let people share and connect |
| 7. Collaboration Tool | G. Rules for writing professional emails |
| 8. Email Etiquette | H. An app for working together online |
Answers: 1-B, 2-A, 3-F, 4-C, 5-D, 6-E, 7-H, 8-G
Activity: Online Research and Collaboration Challenge
In groups of 3–4 students, complete the following tasks:
Activity: My Online Life Audit
Take a look at your own online presence and see how you can make it better.
Steps:
Project: My Digital Citizen Guide
Create a simple guide for other students about how to be a good digital citizen.
Requirements:
Assignment Title: Online Skills Practice
Instructions:
Challenge: The Online Detective
You are an online detective! Your task is to find the most accurate and reliable information about a topic, and to help others stay safe online.
Your tasks:
Congratulations on completing Module Two of the Living Online Fundamentals course! You have learned how to search effectively, evaluate information, use social media safely, communicate with email and instant messaging, collaborate online, and protect your digital footprint.
In Module Three, you will learn even more about living online. You will discover:
To prepare for Module Three:
See you in Module Three – where you will become an even more confident and skilled digital citizen! 🎉