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
37,806 already enrolled
Included with 
Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
4.6
(550 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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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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