Computers for Beginners

Welcome to those of you who joined my Beginner classes! You have definitely made a life-altering decision when you decided it was time to learn more about computers and the internet. Computers have connected us people from all walks of life into one global community. Learning to use the computers can make life more exciting, keeps you informed, connected to friends and loved ones, and helps make learning easier.

I will be honest, you will likely have days that are frustrating as you learn the ins and outs of the internet and your computer.  But, every time you turn on the computer you will learn something new and find searching websites and some tasks do get easier every time, and you will get eventually perform them without thinking as you create that muscle memory. Remember what it was like when you got behind the wheel of a car or rode a bike for the first time?

As far as purchasing computers...Windows 8 just came out and is proving to be challenging for new users to figure out. Personally I prefer Apple computers, and its what we use in these classes.  Mostly, I prefer Apple because they tend to be more intuitive, are far less prone to virus attacks and break downs, and in my experiences their customer service is second to none. This makes purchasing them more cost effective its why you see them in many schools and businesses. But, as always you get what you pay for and these machines do cost more. If cost is an issue for you and you really want to get started on a budget...I personally recommend that as a new user you try to find a reputable place that sells refurbished windows-based desktop computers or laptops that run Windows XP or Windows 7. These will be easier to use and get you started. A reputable company will offer computers with new hard drives, have virus protection on board, made sure they have been checked out, and will be ready to go "surfing" on the internet.

Anything you want to know can be found through using a computer.  A recipe for that favorite dish or dessert, information on the rain forest or a place you plan to visit, parts for your latest project, or phone numbers and addresses for that long lost friend. These are just a few of the millions of things that can be researched on the internet.  Not only will we be able to find out everything you want to know on these topics, there will likely be pictures available so you can recognize and remember what you are researching looks like.

Computers used to be the size of a building, but now they are as small as a pencil eraser.  Information about everyone who has a credit card is built into a data base.  This could include the name, address, social security number, and telephone number.  Companies trade and sell these data bases making personal information available to strangers. Personal privacy may be a thing of the past.

The internet can also help people get from one place to another.  There are websites that give directions, others also allow you to print out a map of the area. These maps include driving directions along with topographical maps showing building locations and streets.

Computer games are entertainment some people just can’t live without.

There are games that are interactive and even involve an exercise routine that make the characters move depending on the footwork of the players.

There are computer games that are designed for learning about real-life situations. Educational games not provide not only provide exercises in tasks used with the computer, but improve problem-solving and thinking skills. Research has proven that learning simple computer skills and searching the internet also exercises the mind and helps keep it sharp!

My best advice is practice, practice, practice-keep notes, and bookmark or save websites and pages to favorites when possible. Good Luck!