Computers are everywhere, they aren't just the desktops and laptops we use for work but the phones in our pockets and even the watches on our wrists are also computers. You probably use a computer every day and in fact you are reading this on a computer!
How Computers Work
How Computers Work
This course is part of Introduction to Computer Science and Programming Specialization
Instructor: Prof Marco Gillies
38,023 already enrolled
Included with 
Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
4.6
(553 reviews)
Beginner level
No prior experience required
Flexible schedule
Approx. 10 hours
Learn at your own pace
94%
Most learners liked this course
Details to know
Shareable certificate
Add to your LinkedIn profile
Assessments
11 assignments
Taught in English
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This course is part of the Introduction to Computer Science and Programming Specialization
When you enroll in this course, you'll also be enrolled in this Specialization.
- Learn new concepts from industry experts
- Gain a foundational understanding of a subject or tool
- Develop job-relevant skills with hands-on projects
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There are 4 modules in this course
This week starts your journey into understanding computer science. You will think about how computer science can help you understand the technology you use every day and you will also learn one of the most important concepts in computer science: abstraction.
What's included
6 videos1 reading1 assignment2 discussion prompts
In this week you will learn about the computer science concepts of state and modularity and how they can help you understand the computer applications that you use every day.
What's included
9 videos1 reading4 assignments1 peer review3 discussion prompts
This week you will learn about how computers communicate with each other over networks, including the internet. You will also learn about some of the security threats that the internet entails and how they can be avoided.
What's included
7 videos3 assignments1 discussion prompt
In this week you will apply all of the computer science concepts you have learned in this course to understanding how modern websites work.
What's included
9 videos1 reading3 assignments1 peer review2 discussion prompts
Instructor
Instructor ratings
4.7 (136 ratings)
Recommended if you're interested in Computer Security and Networks
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Taking this course by University of London may provide you with a preview of the topics, materials and instructors in a related degree program which can help you decide if the topic or university is right for you.
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Learner reviews
4.6
553 reviews
- 5 stars
73.23%
- 4 stars
19.52%
- 3 stars
4.15%
- 2 stars
1.62%
- 1 star
1.44%
Showing 3 of 553
DR
5
Reviewed on Sep 19, 2019
Very good course as an introduction to computing. Could stand to be more challenging, but the material is certainly easy enough for a true beginner.
AN
5
Reviewed on Sep 1, 2024
Very beginner friendly, the AI tools that help students better understand the information allow for a more accessible and digestible course.
SF
5
Reviewed on Nov 6, 2020
I am so glad I took this course. It taught me so much and it gave me the confidence I needed to seriously change careers. I loved it!
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Frequently asked questions
Access to lectures and assignments depends on your type of enrollment. If you take a course in audit mode, you will be able to see most course materials for free. To access graded assignments and to earn a Certificate, you will need to purchase the Certificate experience, during or after your audit. If you don't see the audit option:
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The course may offer 'Full Course, No Certificate' instead. This option lets you see all course materials, submit required assessments, and get a final grade. This also means that you will not be able to purchase a Certificate experience.
When you enroll in the course, you get access to all of the courses in the Specialization, and you earn a certificate when you complete the work. Your electronic Certificate will be added to your Accomplishments page - from there, you can print your Certificate or add it to your LinkedIn profile. If you only want to read and view the course content, you can audit the course for free.
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