Top of Page
Main

Digital Learning Resources

A Groundbreaking Initiative to Provide Free High-Speed Internet For Families in Need

Discover resources to help you learn, grow and succeed

Technology can be a gateway to opportunities, such as learning new skills, finding new jobs, and connecting with loved ones. It can also be overwhelming and hard to keep up with. This page is designed to provide Chicago Connected families with resources to advance learning of digital skills and make the most of their no-cost internet service.

Attend a Free Workshop

Register for online trainings led by experts from organizations in your community.

View Calendar

Learn Skills On Your Own

Learn at your own pace with self-guided trainings focused on building basic skills.

Get Started

Get Technical Support

Talk with someone who can help solve issues related to devices, connectivity and computer-related questions.

Get Support

Learn New Skills on Your Own

No matter where you're at on your journey with technology, we have resources to help you take the next step. The trainings below are designed to help you expand your digital skills and knowledge at your own pace.

person by a computer beneath a blue arcGetting Started With Computers

New to computers and the internet? Start here to learn the basics. Explore More Computer Courses

How to Use Your Computer [ ENGLISH | SPANISH
Learn Email Basics [ ENGLISH | SPANISH
How to Search the Internet [ ENGLISH | SPANISH
Create Secure Accounts and Passwords [ ENGLISH | SPANISH
Explore Other Beginner Computer Skills [ ENGLISH | SPANISH

Google and Microsoft programsLearning Google & Microsoft Programs

Ready to learn more about software that helps you create documents, spreadsheets and presentations? Learn the ins and outs of Microsoft and Google products.

How to Use Google Classrooms [ ENGLISH ]
How to Use CPS Google and Aspen Resources [ ENGLISH | SPANISH
How to Use Google Programs (Gmail, Drive, Docs, Slides, Sheets) [  ENGLISH | SPANISH ] 
How to Use Microsoft Office (Word, Powerpoint, Excel, Outlook) [ ENGLISH & SPANISH  

Jobs iconLanding a New Job

Curious about how to use the internet to create a resume, find new jobs and apply? Get started here.

Learn Interview and Job Skills & Apply for Jobs [ ENGLISH  & SPANISH
Build a Resume [ ENGLISH  & SPANISH
Enroll in a Tuition-Free Career Bridge Program [ ENGLISH  | SPANISH
Find a Job or Training Program in Illinois [ ENGLISH  & SPANISH
How to find a job using Illinois workNet [ ENGLISH  | SPANISH
Apply for a Paid Internship in Technology [ ENGLISH  & SPANISH

Certificate iconOther Digital Resources for Parents

Looking for tools to support your own personal, family and parenting goals? We’ve got you covered with these additional online resources.

Keeping Your Kids Safe & Positive Online [ ENGLISH  & SPANISH
Family Financial Planning [ ENGLISH | SPANISH
Tuition-Free English Courses [  ENGLISH | SPANISH ] 
Learn How to Code for Free [ ENGLISH  
Finish High School for Free [ ENGLISH | SPANISH

Learn With Our Partners

Chicago Connected families are invited to get support with their learning experiences through our partner organizations.

Northstar logoLooking to learn basic computer skills at no cost? Get started by viewing our step-by-step guide on how to access online trainings, with the support of a Northstar partner in your community

Get started

Northstar helps you build skills in three main areas:

  • Computer Skills: Internet basics, using email, Windows and Mac OS
  • Software Skills: Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint; and Google Docs
  • Daily Life: Social media, job searching, supporting K-12 distance learning, online safety

Find a Northstar location:

Test Your Skills

Not sure where to start? Click on an assessment below to test your digital skills, see what you already know, and determine what you want to learn.

Essential Computer Skills

   Basic Computer Skills
   Internet Basics
   Using Email
Windows
Mac OS

 

Essential Software Skills

   Microsoft Word
   Microsoft Excel
   Microsoft Powerpoint
Google Docs

Get Support

If you have questions about accessing or using digital resources, please reach out to one of the following support teams. Help is available in English and Spanish.

CPS Parent Tech Support Hotline

Monday - Friday
7:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.

Parent Tech Support Help Center

773-417-1060

Get technical support for issues related to your CPS-issued device, assistance with other technology-related issues, and answers to general questions related to the Chicago Connected program.

YMCA of Chicago IT Help Desk

Monday - Friday
8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

312-440-2416

Get help with device or connectivity issues, including answers to computer-related questions, assistance completing online tasks, and guidance on navigating Zoom, Google Classroom, and other online tools.