The Brillion Public Library has been offering and holding computer classes for the public monthly. They have proved to be popular with the public. The computer instruction needs of our users, however seem to have a large gap. The classes I have held included basic users who had never used a computer to seasoned users looking for tips on better searching the Internet or in the use of special programs or databases. These classes have challenged me and made me think about how we can better offer our classes to the public.
Hilbert Technologies offered a "Catch up with you 7-year old class that included everything from how to turn the computer on, how to use a mouse, how to get on the Internet and how to set up email. Some of the participants were spurred to take another class to help them. When I teach classes, I like to tell the class to come to the library and use the computer. Try becoming comfortable with a mouse. Try out some searches and sights on the Internet. Open and use the icons on the computers. Do whatever it takes to become comfortable with a computer.
Another group of people that we have been instructing have been the job seekers. Many have never used a computer before and need to use it to apply for jobs or to search for job openings. None of us became adept in using a computer overnight. It took years of trying many different things and a lot of classes that showed us how to use the computer. Every time a new version of software comes out, we have to reorient ourselves to how the program works in comparison to the older version of the program. Becoming a skilled computer user requires continuous training and use of the program.
If you are not able to type or have never used a computer before, how are you going to be able to apply for jobs, create a resume or even search for a job? You need to develop your computer skills- even the basic ones. One of the wonderful things about the Internet is that if actually contains sites that help you build some of these skills for those who have never learned how to type, there are free internet sites that teach you. For those who have never used a mouse, I just found a wonderful Internet site that helps users learn how to use a mouse.
www.3street.org/mouse is a free website that has mouse training. Try it sometime and you might learn a trick or two.
After one of my recent classes where i taught advanced search skills, I received questions on programs that were beyond my expertise. I also am rethinking how I offer classes. I have let the students determine what I teach each time and fortunately I have had a class of students with similar needs and it worked out. But what will I do when the class has both beginners and advanced students? Any simple instruction will bore the advanced learner, while anything complicated will lose the beginner.
The library has taken a role in helping the public navigate computers and the resources of the Internet. Computer classes is one way we do this. A computer literate community benefits everyone.
