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How Does a Computer Work? The Parts Inside (Hardware)

Completed by 1554 learners
Ages 8-12
Live One-Time Class
Learn how a computer works from the inside out during this series, this session covers the parts inside! (Hardware)
Average rating:
4.9
Number of reviews:
(3,360 reviews)
Popular

Live video meetings
Meets once
4-18 learners per class
50 min

What's included

1 live meeting
50 mins in-class hours

Class Experience

US Grade 3 - 6
Today computers are used by young and old,  but do you really understand HOW they work? This class explores the basic principles of a computer system from the inside out.

This class is dedicated to the computer itself and the parts inside that make it work, how they function, how they are designed and how performance is affected and fixed. The student will gain a deep understanding of the "big picture" that is not possible by focusing on individual technologies in isolation. 

Concepts explored  include:
CPU
Memory (ROM and RAM)
Storage (Hard Drives, CDroms)
Graphics Card
Power Supply
Motherboard
Performance considerations related to the above components

All of this is presented in an age appropriate manner so the younger students can grasp and start on a proper understanding into the world of computers. 

This is an interactive whiteboarding class where illustrations are used explain the lesson throughout.  Interaction means questions and comments are encouraged  to whatever level of participation the student desires. 

 
      ==========

This class is part of a series on computer science, specifically how computers work. Each class is independent, and can be purchased separately. I recommend taking all the classes to become well rounded.

Other Details

External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.

Meet the teacher

Joined December, 2016
4.9
3360reviews
Popular
Profile
Teacher expertise and credentials
I have been in the computer industry for decades, starting in the 1970s by building my own computer and robotics. That led to a career of mating software and hardware through several technology startups. Being deeply in this industry from the beginning had granted me an overall view of how everything works together that is rare today. My goal is to pass this deep basic understanding to the next generation. 

Reviews

260 total ratings, 131 with reviews

Review summary for this class
The reviews overwhelmingly praise Mr. Salch's engaging and enthusiastic teaching style, which kept students interested and helped them grasp complex computer hardware concepts. Many students expressed excitement about what they learned and wanted to take more classes with him. He effectively used visuals, real hardware components, and relatable analogies to explain the material clearly. The class provided a solid foundation for understanding how computers work.
This summary was AI-generated from parent reviews
Parent-submitted images
It was a bit boring for my daughter.
Sua P.on Nov 7, 2024
David is such a lovely teacher. Warm welcoming and treats them as... 
Kate F.on Oct 3, 2023
My kids absolutely loved it! They said it was fun and very interesting!
Azikon Aug 14, 2023
Mr. Salch is such a gem - a teacher with a fabulous, confident flow of... 
Emma L.on Jan 13, 2023
Our son really enjoyed this class. A few minutes after it started he... 
Nicole M.on Aug 31, 2022
My 9 year old son loved this class. Highly recommend 
B S.on Aug 31, 2022



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