Behind the Screen: How Operating Systems Manage Computers

Abstract

The rapid development of information technology has made basic computational literacy increasingly essential, particularly for students and university learners. One of the key components of this field is the Operating System (OS), a software responsible for managing all computer resources as well as other devices such as smartphones. Users need to understand the fundamentals of operating systems, including their definition, functions, mechanisms, types, and examples, to comprehend their role in enabling device operations. Advancements in information and communication technology have generated various new ideas within society. This condition requires individuals with strong capabilities and motivation to participate in technological development. However, the progress of science and technology does not always align with the quality of existing human resources. Currently, through the internet, technology provides broad and rapid virtual interaction spaces and access to information. As a result, daily activities, including educational processes, can be carried out more easily, affordably, efficiently, and with greater openness. The webinar titled Behind the Screen: How Operating Systems Manage Computers was conducted to address this need. The activity, delivered online via Google Meet, targeted university students and vocational high school learners. The improvement of participants’ understanding was assessed by comparing the average pre-test and post-test scores. The webinar was attended by 19 out of 23 registered participants. The average pre-test score was 82.8%, indicating that participants possessed basic computer knowledge. After the presentation, the average post-test score increased to 90.8%, reflecting an improvement of 8.3%. This increase aligns with the objective of the program, which is to enhance participants’ understanding of how operating systems function and manage computer resources. The webinar successfully strengthened participants’ knowledge regarding the role of operating systems in managing computer performance. The increase in the average score from 82.8% to 90.8% demonstrates that the delivery method used was effective and met participants’ needs in understanding OS fundamentals. It is expected that similar activities will continue to be implemented as an effort to improve digital literacy and foster the interest of younger generations in the field of information technology.