Computer Hope

Free!

Computer Hope offers a comprehensive glossary of terms related to computers, programming, and coding. To access it, users must launch the website and then click the “Dictionary” button on the top right of the screen. At this point, users can choose a term with the alphabetized list at the topic of the screen, or they can scroll down and choose a topic by category, popularity, or latest additions. Users can then peruse the available terms. When they come across a term of interest, users can select to read its definition. Embedded within the definition are more terms users can click to access. In addition to the dictionary, users can click the “History” option to view a timeline that outlines the development of computers, the “Forums” option to read discussions related to computer-based topics, and the “Tips” option to read suggestions and advice about an array of computer-related topics.

Instructional Ideas

1. Teachers can assign students a term and have them look up the term in Computer Hope’s dictionary. Next, teachers can have students take a screenshot of something related to computer programming, coding, or design that demonstrates that term in use.
2. When reading directions for computer coding, programming, or design, teachers can have students refer to this glossary if they come across a term they do not know.
3. Teachers can have students view the timeline included in this website and rank the top 3, 5, or 10 most important events based on their impact and advancement of computers. For each item, students can write a short rationale that justifies their ranking.
4. Teachers can have students become “computer experts” about a topic. To develop their expertise, teachers can assign students a topic, and students can use the “Forums” section of this website to learn about their topic. That way, when classmates have questions about something related to a computer topic, there will be a class expert who can help them.
5. Teachers can have students practice buying a computer. To do so, teachers can give students a budget (e.g., $500, $750, $1,000) and have them decide which computer is the best to purchase that is within their budget. As part of the exercise, students can read the “Tips” section of this website to learn about different trends, ideas, and concerns when considering purchasing a computer. When ready, students can state the computer they would purchase with their budget and provide a rationale for their decision.

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