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Employability Skills Notes

The document provides an overview of operating systems, their functions, types, and examples, including Windows 7. It also discusses the importance of computer maintenance, care, and security, highlighting the need for stress management and the ability to work independently. Additionally, it emphasizes the significance of ICT skills in communication and business operations.

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0% found this document useful (0 votes)
52 views18 pages

Employability Skills Notes

The document provides an overview of operating systems, their functions, types, and examples, including Windows 7. It also discusses the importance of computer maintenance, care, and security, highlighting the need for stress management and the ability to work independently. Additionally, it emphasizes the significance of ICT skills in communication and business operations.

Uploaded by

haasini205
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

ICT Skills

1. An operating system is the basic software that controls the computer. It serves as an
interface between the user and the computer.
Some of the functions of Operating system are:
 It manages all the devices of a computer and keeps track of the status of the device, whether it
is busy or not.
 It also checks whether the device is functioning properly or not.
 It also controls software resources of the computer.
 It manages the computer memory and keeps track of which memory space is in use by which
program and which space is free.
 It manages the structure of the files and directories on a computer system.
 It keeps track of the amount of disk space used by a specific file.
 It allows you to create, copy, move and delete files.
2. Types of Operating Systems
 DOS DOS (Disk Operating System)
 Windows It is an operating system developed by Microsoft.
 Linux It is an operating system designed for personal computers. It is a free and open-
source software
 Mobile operating Systems: Android, Symbian, Windows Phone, iOS
3. Types of Operating Systems
The different types of operating systems are as follows:
Interactive (GUI-based) A graphical user interface is a user-friendly operating system in which
commands can be entered by clicking/double-clicking/right clicking a mouse. Windows operating
system is an example of an interactive operating system.
Single-user , single-task operating system This type of operating system allows only one user to do
a task on the computer and one thing at a time.
Single-user, multi-task operating system This type of operating system is used on Desktop
computers, laptops, where a single user can operate on several programs at the same time. For
example, Windows, Apple MacOS are examples of single-user multi task operating system.
Multi-user A multi-user operating system enables multiple users to work on the same computer at
different times or simultaneously.
Real Time A real time operating system is used to control machinery, scientific instruments, like
robots, in complex animations and computer controlled automated machines. A real-time operating
system is a computing environment that reacts to input within a specific period of time. It manages the
resources of the computer so that any particular operation is executed in the same amount of time
every time it is executed. Windows CE and Lynx OS are examples of real-time operating systems.
Distributed A distributed operating system runs on a set of computers that are interconnected by a
network. It combines the different computers in the network into a single integrated computer and
storage location. Windows, UNIX, and LINUX are examples of distributed operating systems.
4. Windows 7 is an operating system developed by Microsoft and is used on personal computers. After
loading Windows 7, the first screen that appears on the monitor is called desktop. From the desktop,
you can access different components of Windows 7.
By default, Windows 7 has a picture for the desktop background. This is called wallpaper.
Small pictures on the desktop are called icons. These icons represent files, folders, applications, etc. At
the bottom of the desktop is a long bar called the Taskbar. To the left of the taskbar is the Start button.
Documents: This contains area to store files on the computer
Taskbar is the long horizontal bar present at the bottom of the screen. To the left is the Start button.
Right of the taskbar contains Date/Time. You can also see icons of active applications and some
shortcuts on the Taskbar
5. Shut Down:- allows the user to turn off the computer
All Programs:- Provides access to all the installed programs and applications. To start an application,
just click it.
Search Box:- This allows the user to search a file or a folder or run executable files.
Control panel:- This allows the user to change various settings.
Recycle Bin: Files and folders deleted by the user are stored in the Recycle Bin. From Recycle Bin, you
can retrieve files or folders deleted by mistake.
6. 1. What is an operating system?
2. Mention any three functions of operating system.
3. Name any three operating systems for computers
4. Name any three mobile operating systems.
5. What is the name given to the screen that appears after Windows operating system is loaded?
6. Small images on the desktop are called _____________________
7. Name two special icons on the desktop .
8. Name the icon that provides access to all the drives, files and folders on a computer.
9. Name the button to the left of the taskbar
10. Picture for the desktop background is called _____________.
7. 1. Similar types of files can be placed into groups called ___________.
2. Mention any one way in which can create a new folder.
3. To change the name of the folder, right-click and select __________ option from the Shortcut menu.
4. How can you delete a folder?
5. What is the difference between moving and copying a folder?
6. Differentiate between file and folder.
7. Name the set of commands to move a folder from one location to another.
8. Name the place where deleted files are placed.
9. How can you empty the recycle Bin?
8. Importance and need of care and maintenance of computer
1. Keep the computer dust free.
2. Do not eat or drink while working on the computer. Food or drink may spill on the system.
3. To keep the keyboard clean, make sure your hands are clean before using it.
4. CDs and DVDs should be handled carefully so that it does not get any scratches.
5. Keep keyboard covered when not in use.
9. General precautions to be takes while cleaning the computer components are:
 Always Power Off the computer system before cleaning.
 Never spray cleaning fluid directly on the component of the computer. First spray
 the liquid on the cloth and then wipe the component.
 Do not allow the cleaning liquid to drip near the circuit board.
 Preferably use anti-static wrist band which helps to prevent building up of static electricity near
electronic device.
10. 1. What is the possible cause of slowing down of computer?
2. Why keyboard should be covered if not in use?
3. What general precautions should you take while cleaning the computer
components/
4. List some of the maintenance activities for the computer system.
5. Why regular disk defragmentation should be done?
11. ICT stands for Information and Communication Technology. ICT refers to all the methods, tools,
concepts related to storing, recording and sending digital information.
ICT skills help us to communicate, run our business and stay connected with our family and
friends. Hence, every person needs to acquire ICT skills and build them to stay updated with
the latest software and applications (apps).
12. Basic Functions performed when a computer starts
Just as we go about our morning routine without anyone telling us what to do, a computer
automatically runs a basic program called BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) as soon as it is switched
on or the power button is pushed on.
The BIOS first does a self-test. If the self-test shows that the system is fine, the BIOS will load the
Operating System.
13. Keys labeled from F1 to F12 are function keys.
Control keys: Keys, such as Control (CTRL), SHIFT, SPACEBAR, ALT, CAPS LOCK and TAB,
are special control keys that perform special functions depending on when and where they
are used.
Enter key: You use the ENTER or the RETURN key to move the cursor to the beginning of a new line. In
some programs, it is used to send commands and to confirm a task on a computer.
Navigation keys: Keys, such as the arrow keys, HOME, END, PAGE UP, and PAGE DOWN are
navigation keys.
Command keys: Keys, such as INSERT (INS), DELETE (DEL), and BACKSPACE are command
keys.
14. Some of the shortcut keys:

15. Basic Tips for Taking Care of Devices


Keeping a Device Clean
Cleaning a device, such as a computer or mobile means to keep the screen, keyboard and mouse
clean.
Keyboard: First we should not eat anything over a keyboard.
Screen: You can wipe the screen with a soft cloth to remove any finger marks.
Be careful with food and drinks: Avoid eating and keeping glasses of water or cups of coffee near a
computer
Handle devices carefully: Handle and move your laptop carefully and avoid dropping or banging it
against a hard surface.
Keep the computer cool: If a computer, laptop or mobile device gets overheated, the internal parts
can be damaged.
Do not overcharge your battery: Always unplug the device once it is charged 100%.
Always plug in devices carefully: Any device being connected to a laptop or computer such
as a USB drive or headphones, should be done gently.
Do not run too many programs at a time: When too many programs are running at the same time,
the computer can become slow and even crash.
Backup Your Data
Backing up data means to save the information present on your computer on another device
Scanning and Cleaning Viruses
Sometimes computer viruses can enter a computer from such attacks we can install anti-virus
software.
Increasing Computer Performance
If we have been using a computer for a long time we have a lot of unnecessary files and data, such as
temporary files and images. When they use too much hard-disk space, the performance of the
computer goes down. It is important that we keep cleaning by removing any extra files. We can use
some disk cleaner software, which help us clean up
the unnecessary files.
Removing SPAM from your Computer
Sometimes we get mails from companies who are advertising a product or trying to
attract you to their website. Such mails are called SPAM.
We should never respond to SPAM and delete it on a regular basis.
16. Computer Security Deals with Protecting Computers
Computer security and privacy deals with the measures used to prevent loss of data.
Reasons for Security Break
Security break is leakage of information stored in a computer.
Personal information can be lost or leaked in two ways:
1. We are not careful in giving out personal information over the Internet. For example, we share our
account details and password on unsecure sites.
2. A person gets unauthorised access to our computer. This can happen in the office if we leave are
computer without logging out.
Threats to Computer
Threats are the ways in which personal information can be leaked from a computer without our
knowing.
(a) Theft: Theft means stealing of information or hardware. These maybe of three types:
• Physical: Where a person may steal your desktop computer or laptop.
• Identity: Where a hacker steals your personal information and assumes your identity. Using this
false identity, the hacker can gain access to your account information
or perform illegal activity.
• Software Piracy: This is stealing of software and includes using or distributing unlicensed and
unauthorised copies of a computer program or software.
(b) Virus: Viruses are computer programs that can damage the data and software programs or steal
the information stored on a computer. Major types of viruses are Worms and Trojan Horse.
• Worms: These are viruses that replicate themselves and spread to all files once they attack a
computer. This makes it very difficult to remove them.
• Trojan Horse: A Trojan Horse disguises itself i.e., it appears to be a useful software program but
once it reaches a computer it starts behaving like a virus and destroying data.
• Online Predator: Online predators are people who trap you into inappropriate relationships. They
may be older people posing to be your age, bullying you into doing illegal activities online and
sometimes face to face.
• Internet Scams: Sometimes you may receive very attractive offers saying you have won
a huge money in a lottery and that you can claim the prize by depositing a certain amount
of money. When you deposit the money using credit card or online banking, you not
only lose the deposit money but your card / account information may be misused later.
17. Protecting your Data
(a) Use passwords to login to your computer
(b) Install Anti-virus and Firewall: Anti-viruses and Firewall monitor the data coming in and
out of a computer and prevent and viruses from entering. Anti-viruses can also detect and
clean viruses that may have entered a computer.
(c) Encrypt Data
(d) Secure sites: Give details of your credit card or bank account only on secure sites.

Self-Management Skills
1. Stress Management refers to focusing human efforts for maintaining a healthy body and mind capable
of better withstanding stressful situations. Stress refers to a “physical, mental, or emotional strain or
tension”.
2. Small amounts of stress have a positive effect and they help us stretch ourselves to new level. High
levels of stress over prolonged periods need to be managed. A Stress well managed can help one view
events and situations as challenges and contributes in the growth of individual. Unmanaged stress
leads to anxiety and sorrow resulting in ill status of mental and physical health.
3. Stress causal agents can have following origins:
Mental: Students can be left overwhelmed, if they are unable to handle their assignment submission
deadlines and examinations grades. Overly high expectations from self can leave one with chronic
anxiety and stress.
Physical: As children grow up they may seek more independence, may become critically conscious of
their looks and have to cope up with hormonal changes. Issues related to general well-being and
health of an individual can lead to low self-esteem and cause stress.
Social : Discord amongst family members, peer pressure for doing things which kids will generally avoid
, maintaining balance in relationships amongst friends, status show off may lead to stress at times.
Financial: Youngsters may have aspirational financial stress. This may of becoming independent or
Finances aspirational stress may
4. Importance of Stress Management: Adequately managed stress prevents medical and physical
illnesses. Stress management is vital because it leads to following benefits:
Improves mood
Boosts immune system
Promotes longevity
Leads to burst of physical strength, which is vital for goal achievement
Complete mental and physical engagement for task accomplishment
Increases efficiency and effectiveness
Prevents psychological disorders and behavioral problems
5. Stress Management Techniques
Stress is a mental state where one size doesn’t fit all, what stresses one person may not stress others
at all. It is highly individualistic phenomenon and the solution has to be customized to individual’s
mental state.
Signs of Stress:
Physical signs which may suggest stress are: breathlessness, dry mouth, butterflies in stomach,
indigestion, nausea, acidity, fatigue, sweaty palms, cold hands and feet, irritation and hyperactivity etc.
Mental Signs: At the mental level following symptoms may reflect stress irritation, impatience,
loneliness, upset, anxious, depressed, frustration, bored, guilty, insecure and forgetfulness.
a) Self-awareness amongst individuals for symptoms of stress will help them manage it better.
b) They should try understanding the cause, understanding self and taking remedial measures.
c) Speaking out to the well-wishers like family and friends is of help in stress management as they
provide a social support system.
d) Positive thinking
e) managing one’s time across any or a combination of the following activities aids in stress
management.
i) Physical Exercise: Physical exercise in the form of walking, skipping or for that matter indulging
in any sports has been found to relieve stress as they stabilize mood, improve self-esteem and
induce sleep.
ii) Yoga
iii) Meditation
iv) Enjoying: Recreational activities like watching movies, attending concerts, playing games,
involving in adventure sports, singing, dancing or even sketching can help individuals transcend
to a happier mental state and help manage stress.
v) Going On Vacations with Family and Friends
vi) Taking Nature Walks: national park or a sanctuary or a trail in country side / village
6. Ability to Work Independently:
Everyone who has been sent on this earth has been blessed in their own way. They together make this
earth a beautiful place. Some can sing well, others are good at sports, some are intellectuals and some
are good comedians. Everyone is special. But it is important that everyone learns the art of working
independently. This typically means that one must learn to take ownership of the task assigned and
leave no stone unturned in accomplishing the task. The individual who has the ability to work
independently need not be supervised for the task completion.
7. Importance of The Ability to Work Independently:
Ensures greater learning.
Individuals feel more empowered and responsible.
It provides flexibility to choose and define working hours and working mechanisms.
Failure and success of the task assigned are accounted by individuals.
Individuals become assets to organizations, groups and nations
It ensures creativity and satisfaction amongst individuals.
8. Enhancing Ability to Work Independently
Ability to work independently can be enhanced by being self-aware, self-motivated and self regulated.
Self-Awareness
Having conscious knowledge of your own self, capabilities, feelings and one’s own character is called as
self-awareness. It helps individuals to chart their ways for working independently.
Self-Motivation
Self-motivated individuals have an inner urge to do something, achieve their goals without any external
pressure. It is a life skill and must be necessarily developed.
Self-Regulation
Self-regulation guides independent individuals as it helps them consider long term
consequences rather than just transient feelings. It leads to a responsible and a value driven behavior.
9. Following are some of the skills you must master to succeed in life:
Self-awareness: Gather insights on your personality and work-specific proficiencies.
Responsibility: Taking responsibility for your tasks is very important.
Time Management: Prioritise the things you have to do.
Adaptability: Stay current with best practices and read up on new information always.
10. ABC of stress management
A: Adversity or the stressful event
B: Beliefs or the way you respond to the event
C: Consequences or actions and outcomes of the event
11. Three Steps to Manage Stress
Step 1: Be aware that you are stressed
Step 2: Identify what is causing you stress
Step 3: Apply stress management methods
12. Management Techniques
Time management
Physical exercise and fresh air
Healthy diet
Positivity
Organising academic life; no delaying
Sleep: We should get a good night’s sleep for at least 7 hours
Holidays with family and friends
13. Ability to Work Independently
If you can become a calm and relaxed person, you will be have the ability to work independently, which
means.
1. becoming self-aware, self-monitoring and self-correcting.
2. knowing what you need to do.
3. taking the initiative rather than being told what to do.
4. recognising your mistakes and not blaming others.
5. having the ability and the will to learn continuously.
14. Emotional Intelligence
Emotional intelligence is the ability to identify and manage one’s own emotions, as well as the
emotions of others. It is generally said to include at least three skills:
Emotional awareness : the ability to identify and name one’s own emotions.
• Harnessing emotions : the ability to harness and apply emotions to tasks like thinking and
problem solving.
• Managing emotions : the ability to regulate one’s own emotions when necessary and help others to
do the same.
15. Some steps to manage emotional intelligence are as given below.
Understand your emotions: Observe your behaviour and note the things you need to work
on.
Rationalise: Do not take decisions abruptly; be rational in your thinking.
Practise: Do meditation and yoga to keep yourself calm.
16. Self-awareness: Being self-aware means that you can identify your strengths and weaknesses.
17. Knowing Yourself: Understanding who you are, what you like or dislike, what are your
beliefs, what are your opinions, what is your background, what you do well and what you do not do
well is important because only then can you actually measure your strengths and weaknesses
18.

19. Difference between Interests and Abilities

20. Self-motivation is simply the force within you that drives you to do things. Self-motivation is what
pushes us to achieve our goals, feel happy and improve our quality of life. In other words, it is our
ability to do the things that need to be done without someone or something influencing us.
21. Types of Motivation
Internal Motivation: LOVE
We do things because they make us happy, healthy and feel good. For example, when you perform on
your annual day function and you learn something new, such as dancing, singing, etc., you feel good.
External Motivation: REWARD
We do things because they give us respect, recognition and appreciation. For example, Suresh
participated
in a 100m race and won a prize. This motivated him to go for practice every morning.
22. Qualities of Self-motivated People

23. Building Self-motivation

24. Goals and Setting SMART Goals


Goals : They are a set of dreams with a deadline to get them, for example, saving pocket money to buy
a favourite mobile phone by a particular date.
Goal setting : It is all about finding and listing your goals and then planning on how to achieve them.
25. How to Set Goals?
We can use SMART method to set goals. SMART stands for:
• Specific : A specific and clear goal answers six questions. Who is involved in the goal? What do I want
to do? Where do I start? When do I start and finish? Which means do I use? Why am I doing this?
Not a specific goal: “I would learn to speak English.”
Specific goal: “I would learn to speak English fluently by joining coaching classes after my
school everyday, and in six months I will take part in the inter-school debate competition.”
• Measureable : A measureable goal answers the questions “How much?”, “How many?” and “How do I
know that I have achieved results?”
Not measurable goal: “I want to be rich.”
Measurable goal: “I want to have 5 times more money than what I have today in my hand at the end of
this year.”
• Achievable : Breaking down big goals into smaller parts will make the goal achievable.
Bigger Goal: “I want to become a teacher in my school.”
Breaking it into smaller goals:
. Complete higher secondary
. Complete Graduation
. Complete B.Ed.
. Apply for jobs in the teaching field
• Realistic : A realistic goal would be something that we want to achieve and can work towards.
Example of unrealistic goal: “I will read my entire year’s syllabus in one day and get good
marks.”
Realistic goal: “I spend 3 hours every day of the year after school to revise my subjects to get
good marks in the exams.”
• Time bound : A SMART goal should have a timeframe by when the goal needs to be achieved.
This encourages us to take actions to completely fulfill the goals.
Not a time bound goal: “I want to lose 10 kg someday.”
Time bound goal: “I want to lose 10kg in the next 6 months.”
26. Self-regulation — Time Management
Time management is the ability to plan and control how you spend the hours of your day well and do
all that you want to do. An example of good time management skills would be when you decide to
finish your homework immediately after school so you have time to watch TV later in the evening.
27. Time management is the thinking skill that helps you to
• complete tasks on time.
• make a daily timetable.
• make a good guess at how long it will take you to do something.
• submit homework and assignments on time.
• not waste time during the day.
28. Four Steps for Effective Time Management

29. Tips for Practicing the Four Steps for Effective Time Management
• Avoid delay or postponing any planned activity
• Organise your room and school desk
• Develop a ‘NO DISTURBANCE ZONE’, where you can sit and complete important tasks
• Use waiting time productively
• Prepare a ‘To-do’ list
• Prioritise
• Replace useless activities with productive activities

Entrepreneurial Skills
1. While the concept of entrepreneurship has a fairly wide meaning, it is simply described as starting a
business using the resources available to a person. An entrepreneur combines factors in a creative
manner in order to generate value for customers and create wealth.
2. The beauty of entrepreneurship in a society is that as businesses prosper the impact the businesses
create also increases. It is due to entrepreneurial activity that the society is provided with goods and
services. In turn, society provides market for products and services provided by the entrepreneur.
3. Entrepreneurship has some positive impact on society such as:
• Accentuates economic Growth
• Fosters Creativity
• Stimulates Innovation and Efficiency
• Creates Jobs and Employment Opportunities
• Solves the problems of the society
• Encourages welfare of the society

4. Society plays a role in boosting entrepreneurship by:

• Creates needs and demands


• Provides raw materials
• Enables financial support
• Creates a need for education
• Catalyses policy formation and reform
• Facilitates networking
• Supports infrastructure development
However, entrepreneurship also creates some adverse impact on society sometimes. This happens in
the form of environmental degradation, trade imbalance, labour exploitation etc.
5. Some common entrepreneurship activities related to society include:
Social Entrepreneurship: Social entrepreneurship can be understood as creation of sustainable
solutions for social problems that leads to social change by employing entrepreneurial mindset,
processes and operations.
Agricultural Entrepreneurship: Agricultural Entrepreneurship can be defined as being primarily
related to the marketing and production of inputs and products used in agricultural activities.
Women Entrepreneurship: Women entrepreneurship is referred to the entrepreneurial activity led by
women, where women undertake risks, create enterprises, organise factors of production, innovate
with products/services and generate employment opportunities.
Small Scale Entrepreneurship: Small scale entrepreneurship refers to starting industries in which
manufacturing, trading, providing services, productions are done on a small scale or micro scale.
6. Qualities of an Entrepreneur
Hard work: Without working hard, no entrepreneur can be successful.
Optimism: Positivity and belief in what they do is what takes entrepreneurs far in their journey.
Independence: Entrepreneurs are confident and like the freedom to take decisions.
Energetic: Drive and energy is always high in successful entrepreneurs which makes them extremely
proactive.
Self-confident: Belief in one’s own vision and abilities and passion for the goal makes successful
entrepreneurs confident.
Perseverant: A way of thinking that helps to accept failure, learn from mistakes, not give up,
continuously experiment etc. is crucial for an entrepreneur.

7. Functions of an Entrepreneur
Organisation Building and Management: Organisation building is about bringing together different
factors of production and allocating these resources to bring down costs and losses.
Risk taking: Risk taking is about taking responsibility and planning for a loss or mishap that may occur
in the future due to unforeseen contingencies.
Innovation: Entrepreneurs innovate by introducing new concepts, products, services, designs, ideas
etc.

8. Promotional functions
Idea Discovery: The first step towards entrepreneurship is discovery of a business idea.
Detailed Investigation: While coming up with ideas can seem like an easy process, the challenge is to
understand if the idea has the potential to turn into a viable business venture.
Assembling the Requirements: No matter what is the type of the business, an entrepreneur has to
work towards assembling and organizing all the requirements once he/she is sure about the
practicality and profitability of the proposition.
Financing: Raising capital for a business is one of the core functions that entrepreneurs perform
themselves, not just at the initial stage of the business, but even to grow and scale the business.
9. Managerial functions
Planning: An entrepreneur documents a business idea in the form of a business plan, to detail each
element of the business such as product or service description, operations, marketing, finance,
accounting, growth plan etc.
Organizing: Organizing in the managerial context refers to setting specific and attainable goals and
objectives to be achieved by different departments and by each employee.
Directing: Directing is about initiating planned action and ensuring that each employee is performing
effectively.
Staffing: Staffing refers to different sub-processes around human resource management, such as
manpower planning, recruitment, selection, placement, training, transfer, salary, promotion, payroll,
appraisal etc.
Leadership: Leadership is more of a skill than a function for an entrepreneur as he or she has to lead,
guide and supervise people who work for the business.
Communication: Communication enables exchange of feelings, ideas, emotions, information and
knowledge between two or more persons
Supervision: Supervision is a key skill as even overseeing that things are being executed well is
important.
Motivation: Along with guiding employees, an entrepreneur also plays a role of motivating them and
encouraging positive behaviour and culture within the organization.
Co-ordination: Co-ordination between different departments of the business helps to ensure that
work happens in a timely manner.
Controlling: Sometimes controlling is necessary for the entrepreneur to set company rules and
policies.
Negotiation: An entrepreneur negotiates terms and conditions for many parts of the business such as
payment terms and timelines, salaries of employees, vendor quotations etc.
10. Commercial Functions
Production and Operations
Finance and Accounting
Marketing
Human Resource Management
11. Role of Entrepreneurs

Innovator’s Role
Agent’s role
Coordinating role
Risk assumption role
Capital formation role
Imitating role
Employment Generation role
Status transformation role
Balancing role
12 Importance of Entrepreneurs
Free market evolution: In a free market, entrepreneurs are able to respond to changing customer
preferences, prices, shifts in demand etc.
Efficiency improvements: Entrepreneurs tend to adapt in an established business and increase their
own efficiency.
New markets: Entrepreneurs can often ‘redefine the rules’ of an established industry.
New values: Sometimes, entrepreneurs choose ethics over profit and offer a more ethical product to
the world and are transparent about it.
13 Myths of Entrepreneurship

Entrepreneurs are born a certain way


Great ideas are what makes entrepreneurs
Entrepreneurs have to take a lot of risk
Businesses either skyrocket or fail
A lot of money is required to start any business
One must know everything before starting a business
14 Entrepreneurship as a Career – Why Entrepreneurship for You?
Nurtures development of entrepreneurial skills and capabilities: Entrepreneurship cultivates
unique skills and encourages outside the box thinking.
Enables application of an entrepreneurial mindset: Entrepreneurial mindset and skills are not
necessarily only relevant to becoming an entrepreneur, but also in any field.
Develops the ability to handle failure and ambiguity
Enhances critical thinking and problem-solving ability
Provides early exposure to the real world
Inspires to think about one’s career differently
Leads to creating difference in society: Entrepreneurs not only economically impact society but they
also work on identifying the real needs and problems of people and solving them.
15. Difference between Entrepreneur and Business
Ramya and Ramu both own plant shops. Ramu sits at his shop every day. When customers
come, he sells to them. Ramya walks around and gets customers to her shop. She also sells seeds and
flowers with her plants.
Ramya is working to do more and grow her business. She has also added a different idea to her
business. So, Ramya is an entrepreneur and Ramu is a businessman.
16. what do entrepreneurs do when they run their business?
Fulfil Customer Needs
Use Local Materials
Help Society
Create Jobs
Sharing of Wealth
Lower Price of Products
17. Qualities of an Entrepreneur
1) CONFIDENT
2) Keep TRYING NEW IDEAS.
3) PATIENT
4) CREATIVE
5) Take RESPONSIBILITY for their mistakes
6) take DECISIONS AFTER THINKING about whether they are good or bad for my business.
7) WORK HARD
8) DO NOT GIVE UP.
18.

19. Myths about Entrepreneurship


The misconception is that every business idea needs to be unique or special.
The misconception we have is that a person needs a lot of money to start a business.
A misconception we have is that only a person having a big business is an entrepreneur
A misconception we have is that entrepreneurs are born, not made.
20. Entrepreneurship as a Career Option
A career is a line of work that a person takes for life. There are two ways a person can earn a living.
They are
1. self-employment
2. wage employment
For example, a doctor who works for a hospital is a wage employed person. If the same doctor has
their own clinic, he or she is a self-employed person.
A self-employed person running a business to satisfy a need by trying new ideas is an entrepreneur.
21. A person who becomes an entrepreneur goes through a career process.

Green Skills
1. Over the years, with economic development, there has been an increase in environmental pollution. For
example, with the introduction of high input agriculture, we can grow more food by using fertilisers,
pesticides and hybrid crops. But it has led to soil and environmental degradation. We need to plan the use of
resources in a sustainable manner so that we and our future generations can enjoy the good environment
2. Sustainable Development: Sustainable development is the development that satisfies the needs of the
present without compromising the capacity of future generations, guaranteeing the balance between
economic growth, care for the environment and social well-being.
3. Importance of Sustainable Development: With increasing population and income, the
consumption of goods is increasing day by day. This has led to increase in production and utilisation of
natural resources, which are required for producing goods. Society must thus change its development
strategy to a new form where development will not destroy the environment. This form of sustainable
development can only be brought about if each individual practices a sustainable lifestyle. Since most of the
natural resources are scarce, therefore, careful utilisation of resource is necessary.
4. Problems Related to Sustainable Development:
Three major problems related to sustainable development are:
(a) Food: The amount of rich, fertile land needed to grow crops, such as wheat, rice, etc., is becoming less as
we are using up more and more land for other purposes. Soil nutrients are also getting depleted and lots of
chemicals are spoiling the soil due to use of chemical fertilisers.
(b) Water: We use fresh water from rivers and ponds for drinking and cleaning but dump garbage into them.
The rivers and ponds are getting polluted. This way after several years, we will have no clean water for our
use.
(c) Fuel: We are using a lot of wood from trees as fuels and for construction of homes and furniture. As more
and more trees are being cut, it is affecting the climate of the place. Extreme weather conditions, such as
floods, extreme cold or heat, are seen in many places, which affect the people living there.
5. An environment friendly way for production of power is using solar energy or energy from the sun which is
unlimited. One major example of large scale production of solar power is seen in Charanka — Gujarat Solar
Park. This barren land with wild vegetation has a mega solar power plant of 600 MW. This has reduced the
dependence on non-renewable fossil fuels in Gujarat.
The people of Charanka have benefited as they have a good source of income and this will also help future
generations in the next 40–50 years to come.
6. Sustainable development includes
• reducing excessive use of resources and enhancing resource conservation;
• recycling and reuse of waste materials;
• scientific management of renewable resources, especially bio-resources;
• planting more trees;
• green grassy patches and trees to be interspersed between concrete buildings;
• using more environment friendly material or biodegradable material and
• use of technologies, which are environmental friendly and based on efficient use of resources.
7. Sustainable Development Goals: The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are a
universal call of action to end poverty, protect the planet and ensure that all people enjoy peace and
prosperity. The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) were launched at the United Nations Sustainable
Development Summit in New York in September 2015, forming the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable
Development. It has set targets that the countries have to should work towards and achieve by 2030.
8. The 17 SDGs have been made with the aim to take care of important issues facing businesses, governments
and society. Some of these issues are poverty, gender equality, water use, energy, climate change and
biodiversity. Countries are now making policies and regulations that will promote sustainable systems
needed in all economic sectors to provide a secure, affordable and sustainable economy.
9. Sustainable Development Initiatives
When plastics were banned by the municipal corporation of Mangalore, an innovator and entrepreneur Mr
Avasth Hedge found an eco-friendly alternative. He made a 100 per cent bio-degradable bag which can
dissolve in hot water and decompose in natural environment. This
is now being used in many countries and is going to help the environment.
Another innovative idea was to stop the use of plastics spoons, forks, etc. Narayana Peesapaty made edible
cutlery made out of a grain — these spoons can be eaten and even if they are not eaten they will easily
decompose in the soil enriching it. <https://www.ibef.org/Innovations-from-India.aspx>
10. Sustainable Processes
Some practices, such as organic farming, vermi-composting and rainwater harvesting are being used to help
preserve the environment.
Organic farming is where farmers do not use chemical pesticides and fertilisers to increase their production.
They use organic and natural fertilisers, such as cow dung to help in growing crops. This helps in better
quality chemical free crops while at the same time maintaining the soil quality for future use. This is a true
example of sustainable development where we are not only using the earth resources but are also
preserving it for our future generations.
11. Our Role in Sustainable Development
Increasing population and development has led to the increase in consumption of the natural resources. The
more the population, the more food, energy and water we need. When we grow more crops, the soil’s
nutrients are consumed and slowly the soil becomes unusable. Similarly, if we continue to use fossil fuels,
such as coal, oil and natural gas, very soon we will run out of these natural resources. We use so many
resources from nature but whatdo we give back to nature?
Natural resources are limited and with time they will get over and if we do not do anything about it, our
future generations will not be able to survive.
One initiative was taken by Ministry of Railways in Varanasi and Raibareilly where they introduced clay pots
‘Kulhads’ to replace plastic and paper cups and to bring back taste of tradition. Three major advantages
gained by using ‘Kulhads’ are to
1. reduce cutting of tree for making paper cups.
2. job creation for potters, which contributes to economy.
3. reduce plastic waste.
12. Our Role towards Sustainable Development
United Nations has formed 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) so that countries and nations can
work towards finding a solution to the growing problems in the world. Countries should form rules and
guidelines to remove poverty and hunger and provide good health and quality education. These goals have
been made so that all the nations take action to protect our air, water and land from pollution and provide
clean water, air and energy to all people. Sustainable development can actually happen only when each one
of us works towards it. We have to become responsible environment citizens who can protect the
environment through our own efforts.
13. Here are some basic ways in which people can help towards Sustainable Development Goals.
Quality Education: Education is the most important factors for sustainable development. Children who
have gone to school will be able to do jobs so that they can take care of themselves and their families.
Education helps us become aware of our role as a responsible citizen. We should
1. use the facilities present in our areas.
2. take our friends to school.
3. help friends study.
4. stop friends from dropping out of school.
Clean Water and Sanitation
We must make efforts to make India free of open defecation by building toilets and creating awareness
towards sanitation. Industrial pollution is polluting our water resources, which in near future will cause
scarcity of clean drinking and usable water. We must take measurable
steps by promoting awareness to keep water sources clean.
Affordable and Clean Energy
Using solar power i.e., power generated using the sun does not cause pollution as it does not require
burning of non-renewable fuels, such as coal. We are making efforts to increase the solar power generation
so that our electricity needs are met and at the same time we
do not pollute the environment or use up natural resources. Use of biogas is also an eco-friendly alternative
to natural gas.
Decent Work and Economic Growth
We can
(a) study and find good jobs to take care of ourselves and our families.
(b) work hard and contribute to society.
(c) learn and develop skills so that we get add value in our community.
Reduced Inequalities
To reduce inequalities we can
1. be helpful to one another.
2. be friendly with everyone.
3. include everyone while working or playing.
4. help others by including everyone whether they are small or big, girl or boy, belong to any class or caste.
Sustainable Cities and Communities
Creating Sustainable Cities
1. Save energy by switching off lights and fans when not in use.
2. Use natural light as much as possible.
3. Use energy efficient lights (LED bulbs) and appliances.
Responsible Consumers and Producers
We can become responsible about our own environment by
1. reusing paper, glass, plastic, water, etc.
2. taking cloth bags to market carrying fruits and vegetables.
3. donate things we do not use such as clothes, books, furniture, food, etc.
4. Buy and eat seasonal fruits and vegetables from local growers.
5. Repair leaking taps and pipes to avoid wasting water.
6. Sort and treat garbage before disposing.
Protect Life Below Water
Tons of plastic is found in the seas, which is killing marine life. Protecting marine life, saving our oceans from
pollution is necessary to preserve the marine life.
Protect Life on Land
Cutting of trees is leading to soil erosion and making land dry and unusable for cultivation. Planting more
tree to replace the ones that we have cut is an important step towards sustainable development.
14. In our daily life we can contribute to create a Sustainable Society by following 4Rs’ and 1U of
Sustainability. These are REFUSE, REDUCE, REUSE, RECYCLE and UPCYCLE.
To create a sustainable environment, we must first REFUSE to use products that may harm the environment.
REDUCE is the next step, that is minimizing the use of the products that may cause harm to environment.
We must REUSE these products as far as possible, in order to reduce the waste generation.
Next comes RECYCLE. After reusing the product, we must try to recycle it as far as possible. When we recycle
any product, the quality is usually affected and the new product is not of the same quality as the original
product.
In these modern times, another smart way has seen its emergence, this is the U in sustainability –
UPCYCLING. This allows the scope of human skills to get their due. Any product that is not usable can be
upcycled with creativity and innovation. UPCYCLING of products could be done manually
as well as with help of machines, giving a new look to the old product and making it look desirable.

By following the 4 R’s and 1 U, we all can contribute in reducing waste generation thereby protecting the
resources and keeping the environment safe.

Communication Skills

1. Communication is the imparting or exchanging of information by speaking,writing or using some other


medium and means of sending or receiving information.
2.

3. Learning objectives of Effective communication


1. Development of Interpersonal Skills
2. To express effectively & with maximum efficiency
4. Writing is a form of communication that allows students to put their feelings and ideas on paper, to organize
their knowledge and beliefs into convincing arguments, and to convey meaning through well-constructed
text. In its most advanced form, written expression can be as vivid as a work of art.
5. Phrases- Phrases are a group of words that work together to communicate an element of
speech.
6. Sentences: A set of words that is complete in itself, typically containing a subject and predicate, conveying a
statement, question, exclamation, or command, and consisting of a main clause and sometimes one or more
subordinate clauses.
7.

8. Parts of speech- A category to which a word is assigned in accordance with its syntactic functions. In English
the main parts of speech are noun, pronoun, adjective, determiner, verb, adverb, preposition, conjunction,
and interjection.
9. Article writing is the process of creating a non-fiction text about current or recent news,
items of general interest or specific topics.
10. A paragraph is a series of sentences that are organized and coherent, and are all related to a single topic.
11. Barriers to Effective Communication
A communication barrier is thus anything that prevents us from receiving and
understanding the messages others use to convey their information, ideas and
thoughts.
1. Physical Barriers – Physical barriers separate people from each other and mark territories.
2. Language Barriers – Not using words another can understand will certainly stop your
message from being conveyed.
3. Gender Barriers – Variation exists among masculine and feminine styles of communication.
4. Attitudinal Barriers - as those behaviors or perceptions that are divisive in nature – the ones that
can lead to nagging doubt, sullen disagreement or even overt conflict.
5. Perceptual Barriers – Different world views can create misunderstanding. People tend to interpret
messages from their own point of view or ideologies.
6. Cultural Barriers – Ethnic, religious, and social differences can often create misunderstandings when
trying to communicate.
7. Emotional Barriers –If one is consumed with emotion he will have difficulty in understanding what is
communicated.
Answer the following quiz questions-
1. Not stating instructions clearly is an example of……….. ( language barrier)
2. Not understanding the customs or traditions of a speaker could mean there is a………………. ( cultural
barrier)
3. When you are overcome by your own feelings and unable to communicate well it means there is an
………………..( emotional barrier)
4. Using slang or words that are used within your own social group is an example of a ………………. ( cultural
barrier)
5. You may like to have your own private cabin to work in but if you are not willing to meet your team face to
face it is an indication of a………. (physical barrier)
6. You have an…………………. ( attitudinal barrier) if you think you are more qualified than others and are
superior in knowledge.
7. If you have a totally different viewpoint from your team mates on the way a training programme is to be
planned you have a …………..(conceptual barrier)
12. Handling Barriers to Communication
Engage in face-to-face interactions whenever possible.
Reduce or eliminate distractions around you.
Try to assess the needs of the receiver.
Hone your active listening skills.
Soften your tone and language.
Encourage feedback.
13. Described below are some common barriers to effective communication which we must
avoid:
1 Second guessing the sender: We do this when we are impatient with the speaker and are in a hurry to
finish the sentence for the speaker.
2 Stereotyping: We often form stereotypes about those whom we know the least! Once our mental sets are
created, all our transactions are affected by these sets, preventing us from effective listening.
3 Halo effect: This is another form of stereotyping. Based on a single characteristic we make up our mind
usually positively about the other person.
4 Not listening as a status or gender issue: Studies have shown that men listen much less than women do.
Similarly those in positions listen less to those who are lower in hierarchy.
14. Communication has three important parts:
1. Transmitting — The sender transmits the message through one medium or another.
2. Listening — The receiver listens or understands the message.
3. Feedback — The receiver conveys their understanding of the message to the sender in the form of
feedback to complete the communication cycle.
The various elements of a communication cycle are:
Sender: the person beginning the communication.
Message: the information that the sender wants to convey.
Channel: the means by which the information is sent.
Receiver: the person to whom the message is sent.
Feedback: the receiver’s acknowledgement and response to the message.
Methods of Communication:
Face-to-face informal communication
e-mail
Notices/Posters
Business Meetings
Other Methods
15. Verbal Communication: Verbal communication includes sounds, words, language, and speech. Speaking is
one of the most effective and commonly used way of communicating.
Type of Verbal Communication:
Interpersonal Communication
Written Communication
Small Group Communication
Public Communication
Advantages of Verbal Communication
It is an easy mode of communication in which you can exchange ideas by saying what you want and get
a quick response. Verbal communication also enables you to keep changing your interaction as per the other
person’s response.
Disadvantages of Verbal Communication
Since verbal communication depends on written or spoken words, sometimes the meanings can be confusing
and
difficult to understand if the right words are not used.
Mastering Verbal Communication
Think Before You Speak
Concise and Clear
Confidence and Body Language
16. Non Verbal Communication
Non-verbal communication is the expression or exchange of information or messages without using any
spoken or written word.
Importance of Non-verbal Communication
In our day-to-day communication
• 55% communication is done using body movements, face, arms, etc.
• 38% communication is done using voice, tone, pauses, etc.
• only 7% communication is done using words.
Types of Non-verbal Communication
Gestures or Body Language
Posture
Facial Expressions
Touch
Space
Eye Contact
Paralanguage
Visual Communication: Visual communication proves to be effective since it involves interchanging
messages only through images or pictures and therefore, you do not need to know any particular language
for understanding it.
17. Communication Cycle and Importance of Feedback
Feedback can be positive or negative.
A good feedback is one that is:
• specific
• timely
• Polite
• Offering continuing support
Types of Feedback
Positive Feedback
Negative Feedback
No Feedback : It is also a feedback in itself which indicates disagreement of ideas.
Importance of Feedback
• It validates effective listening
• It motivates
• It is always there
• It boosts learning
• It improves performance
18. 7 Cs i.e., Clear, Concise, Concrete, Correct, Coherent, Complete and Courteous.
Absence of any of these 7Cs can lead to miscommunication.

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