Topic

Operating systems (Windows, Unix, Linux, the Mac OS), Graphical user interface

Learning objectives

Students will be able to:

• explain what the term operating environment means
• explain the term software and the difference between system software and application software
• understand the function of the operating system
• describe graphical user interface (GUI)
• list and characterize the most popular operating systems

Key words

Operating system, user interface, system software, application software, cursor, prompt, icon, menu, pull-down menu, window, pointer, desktop, command, data, retrieve, handle, network, multitasking, source code, file, folder, user-friendly, scroll bar, menu bar, utility, GUI