The Problem:The world runs on computers. And why not? Email is easy, fast and free. All government agencies and organizations of any size have web sites with vast amounts of helpful information. Every day it is more likely that when you ask for information you'll be directed to the Internet. Call any company's customer service line and you'll most likely be directed to go to its web site for answers. Then there is Google. Have questions about the origins of the universe or how to hang a curtain? Simply Google the question and you'll be offered thousands of web sites containing those key words and answers to your questions. Like family photos? You'd better get used to looking at them on your computer. Among other camera manufacturers, Nikon recently announced that in the future it won't make film cameras, only digital ones.
Whether we like it or not, being computer literate is fast becoming mandatory. Most people learn about computers on the job, asking co-workers or the IT department for help. But if you're a stay at home parent or in a small company without IT resources what can you do?
The Solution:Fortunately, there are many computer classes available. These range from beginning "how to use a mouse" to sophisticated programming seminars. There is a class for every level of computer experience. The key is to find a class that is appropriate for you. Here are some tips on what to look for when you're reading the course descriptions.
- 1. Have an idea of what you want to learn. Taking a class on the Windows operating system that powers most PCs will be interesting, but if what you really want to do is know how to send email and surf the Net, make certain the class you chose will cover these subjects.
- 2. Make a list of the things you want to learn, take it to the first class and share it with the instructor.
- 3. Choose classes geared for your style of learning. Most people learn best with direct hand-on experience. Classes where the instructor provides step-by-step instructions are likely to be more beneficial than lecture style classes.
- 4. Look for small interactive classes of six to eight people where the instructor can easily answer every person's questions.
- 5. Have an open mind to learning. Computers aren't the most user-friendly machines, but neither are bicycles. Once you learned the basics, you could ride a bike without thinking about it. The same will be true for computers.
- 6. In the class you choose, you should feel at ease asking the instructor to repeat him or herself. Ideally, he should write out the instructions so you can repeat each step.
- 7. Set your pride aside. Remember that everyone that uses a computer, even our own SuperGeeks, has to have learned about computers in a similar methodical manner.
- 8. Be patient with yourself. Many people who have attempted to learn about computing at one time or another with the help of family members or friends relay sad stories of impatience, humiliation and disappointment. Don't be discouraged. You just need the right instructor. One who will speak clearly, provide written notes, allow enough time for hands on experience and make the class enjoyable as well as informative.
