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Software Engineering

VS Code as AI Command Centre

10 Modules
Chapter 10: Prerequisites - Workshop 01 Morning: VS Code Setup100%

Prerequisites - Workshop 01 Morning: VS Code Setup

Before You Begin

This workshop transforms your computer into a professional AI command centre. Ensure you meet these requirements for the best experience.

Required Knowledge

Essential Skills

  • ✅ Basic Computer Literacy

    • Can install software
    • Comfortable with files and folders
    • Basic typing skills
    • Can navigate web browsers

  • ✅ No Coding Experience Required

    • This is NOT a programming workshop
    • We focus on document creation and AI integration
    • Everything is explained from first principles

Helpful (But Not Required)

  • 📝 Experience with Microsoft Word or Google Docs
  • 📧 Familiarity with email and web applications
  • 📁 Basic understanding of file organization

Technical Requirements

Hardware Specifications

Minimum Requirements:

  • Processor: Dual-core CPU (2015 or newer)
  • RAM: 4GB minimum, 8GB recommended
  • Storage: 2GB free disk space
  • Display: 1280x720 resolution minimum

Recommended Specifications:

  • Processor: Quad-core CPU
  • RAM: 8GB or more
  • Storage: 5GB free (for extensions and projects)
  • Display: 1920x1080 or higher

Operating System

Supported Platforms:

  • ✅ Windows 10 or 11 (64-bit)
  • ✅ macOS 10.15 (Catalina) or newer
  • ✅ Ubuntu 18.04+, Debian 9+, Fedora 34+

Administrator Access Required:

  • Ability to install software
  • Modify system settings
  • Install extensions

Internet Connection

Requirements:

  • Speed: 5 Mbps minimum (for downloads and AI)
  • Stability: Consistent connection preferred
  • Data: ~500MB for initial setup
  • Ongoing: AI features require internet

Software Prerequisites

Must Install Before Workshop

1. Web Browser (Modern)

  • Google Chrome (recommended)
  • Firefox
  • Edge
  • Safari (macOS)

2. Optional: Text Editor

  • Notepad (Windows) / TextEdit (Mac)
  • For taking notes during workshop

Will Install During Workshop

We'll install these together:

  • VS Code (primary tool)
  • VS Code extensions
  • AI integrations
  • Optional: Docker Desktop (for containers)

Account Setup (Optional)

Recommended (Free Accounts)

For AI Integration (Choose One):

For Version Control:

  • 🐙 GitHub Account (Phase 2: Version Control)

Not Required

  • No paid subscriptions needed
  • No premium tools required
  • Free tiers sufficient for learning

Project Preparation

Bring Real Work

Most Effective Learning: Have a real project in mind:

  • Document you need to write
  • Proposal to create
  • Research to organize
  • Report to complete

Suggested Projects:

  • Meeting notes template
  • Project proposal
  • Research summary
  • Business report
  • Technical documentation

Create Workshop Folder

Before the workshop:

# Create a dedicated folder
Documents/
  └── AI-Workshop/
      ├── morning-session/
      └── afternoon-session/

Benefits:

  • Organized materials
  • Easy to find exercises
  • Clean workspace

Mental Preparation

Set Expectations

This Workshop IS:

  • ✅ Hands-on and practical
  • ✅ Focused on immediate productivity
  • ✅ Suitable for non-programmers
  • ✅ About AI-enhanced documentation
  • ✅ Fast-paced but thorough

This Workshop IS NOT:

  • ❌ A programming course
  • ❌ Theory-heavy
  • ❌ Slow-paced lecture
  • ❌ Passive watching
  • ❌ One-size-fits-all

Time Commitment

Workshop Duration: 3 hours

Schedule:

  • 00:00-00:30: Concepts and theory
  • 00:30-02:00: Hands-on setup
  • 02:00-02:30: Practical exercises
  • 02:30-02:50: Real project work
  • 02:50-03:00: Assessment

Post-Workshop:

  • 1 hour: Personal practice
  • 1 week: Daily application
  • 1 month: Mastery through use

What to Bring

Physical Items

  • 💻 Laptop (fully charged)
  • 🔌 Power adapter
  • 🖱️ Mouse (optional, but helpful)
  • 📓 Notebook and pen (for notes)

Digital Items

  • 📧 Email access (for verification codes)
  • 🔑 Passwords ready (for account creation)
  • 📁 Real project files (to work on)

Pre-Workshop Checklist

One Day Before

  • Verify computer meets requirements
  • Test internet connection
  • Charge laptop fully
  • Create workspace folder
  • Identify real project to work on
  • Clear calendar (3 uninterrupted hours)

One Hour Before

  • Close unnecessary applications
  • Disable notifications
  • Test audio/video (if virtual)
  • Have water and snacks ready
  • Open this workshop page
  • Be ready to learn!

Getting Help

During Workshop

If you encounter issues:

  1. Raise hand / unmute (virtual)
  2. Ask in chat
  3. Note for office hours

Common Issues:

  • Installation permissions → Contact IT
  • Internet problems → Use mobile hotspot
  • Can't keep up → Mark sections for review

After Workshop

Support Channels:

  • 📧 Email: workshop@dreamlab.ai
  • 💬 Discord: [Workshop Channel]
  • 📅 Office Hours: Fridays 2-3pm GMT
  • 📖 Documentation: This website

Accessibility

Accommodations Available

We support:

  • Screen readers
  • Keyboard-only navigation
  • High-contrast themes
  • Adjustable font sizes
  • Caption/transcript requests

Request Accommodations:

FAQ: Prerequisites

"I've never coded before. Is this for me?"

Absolutely! This workshop is designed for non-programmers. We use VS Code as a document editor, not a coding tool.

"Do I need to pay for AI services?"

No. Free tiers are available for all AI providers we use. You can complete the entire workshop without spending money.

"What if my computer is old?"

Try it! If your computer can run a web browser, it can likely run VS Code. Performance may vary, but core features work on older hardware.

"Can I use a tablet or Chromebook?"

Limited. VS Code has a web version, but the full desktop experience is recommended for this workshop.

"What if I can't install software?"

Contact us. We may have alternative approaches or can help you request IT permissions.

"Do I need to finish in one sitting?"

No. Content is modular. Take breaks, return later. Your progress saves automatically.

Success Stories

"I was worried about the technical requirements, but everything installed smoothly and I was up and running in 10 minutes." — Sarah M., Marketing Director

"My 7-year-old laptop handled everything perfectly. Don't let old hardware stop you!" — David K., Academic Researcher

"I've never touched code before. This workshop made everything clear and accessible." — Emma L., Business Consultant

Ready to Transform?

If you meet these prerequisites, you're ready for an incredible journey. This workshop will change how you work with documents and AI forever.

See you in the workshop!

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