Online learning resources

Using computers and the internet

Office 2007 online training. Use the interactive online Activ software to improve your use of the Office suite of programs, including: word processing, using spreadsheets, creating presentations and using the internet/World Wide Web. Can be used to study for the ECDL qualification or simply improve your skills.

Word 2007 quick reference for creating essays (pdf): this short guide contains all the essentials for preparing essays.

Managing long documents in Microsoft Word 2007 (pdf): guide to some of the more advanced features of Microsoft Word 2007.

Teach yourself IT skills with ECDL Classroom guides (login using your Kent IT account details). As a Kent student, you can study for the European Computer Driving Licence (ECDL) qualification or simply use the training material to teach yourself. Subjects covered include IT concepts, using the computer and managing files, word processing, spreadsheets, databases, producing presentations, using the internet and email.

BBC WebWise Online Course: learn how to use the internet (for beginners).

TONIC: an easy-to-understand, practical guide to using the internet.

Improving keyboard/typing skills

Another skill you might like to consider is improving keyboard/typing skills - the ability to type will increase the speed and accuracy of your work. There is an online typing tutor called Mavis Beacon on all Kent student PCs at Canterbury, Medway and Tonbridge.

Login to a student PC click on Start menu > All Programs > Central Software > Mavis Beacon > Mavis Beacon 8.

Study skills

Develop your study skills: advice for all Kent students about effective approaches to study. Topics include: learning from lectures, revision and exams, effective reading, tips on essay writing and much more.

Information retrieval skills

Virtual Training Suite: how to save time and improve the quality of your work when searching the internet for information for coursework, literature reviews or personal research. Each tutorial enables you to:

• Tour the best of the Web for your subject. See the sites that can help with your course work.
• Discover how to search the Internet effectively using the best search tools and techniques.
• Judge which Web sites are worth using for research and learn how to avoid common pitfalls on the Internet, by critically evaluating the information you find.

Example CVs, covering letters and application forms

Kent Careers Advisory Service: a range of example CVs, covering letters and application forms mainly aimed at students and graduates; also a useful starting point for staff.