How wonderful that Computer Learning is also one of the month-long observances for October!
It’s a great follow-up to what was touched on recently — how important it is to try to keep up with technology.
So here are some more chances to get better with computers. The courses in the image below have been grouped according to knowledge level.
For those who have minimal exposure or are new to computers, DigitalLearn.org is a wonderful website that explains the basics in simple methods, i.e. there is no need to register nor sign up with an email account. The learner can just visit the website, and start clicking at the numerous topics. Maybe you know someone who could benefit from this resource? We have had many novice learners who were grateful for these lessons. There is a choice of watching a video, or reading a PDF version of the content.
The Learning Express Library is also another resource that is perfect for beginner level learners. There are course categories like Get Started With Your Computer, and Get Started With The Internet! Its Computer Skills Center also offers numerous tutorials – ranging from beginner to expert – on popular software tools, graphic applications, and the different Windows operating systems. A library card and an email address are needed to register for the courses.
For those who are already comfortable using computer technology but would like to gain more knowledge, there are two great course catalogs for you to browse from: Universal Class and Gale Courses. Both resources would require a Livingston Library Card and an email address to register. You must use our portal through our Library’s website in order to get to the right content in these course catalogs.
Search for courses using keywords like computer learning, computer, computer basics, Microsoft, Google, Windows, Mac, software, application, technology, specific product names or topics, networking, security, or troubleshooting, as examples.
Universal Class has these offerings under its Computer Training and Office Skills areas of study. You can sign up anytime for these video-based, self-paced and instructor-led courses. Most can be completed within 10-20 hours, however, they are made available for completion within six months.
Gale Courses has featured courses under Technology, and Computer Applications. Use the search function for a more comprehensive list of courses. The 6-week courses are offered monthly and have start periods assigned for each cycle. So be sure to register in time. The courses are also self-paced and instructor-led.
Beginner level learners may be interested in Universal Class‘s Computer Basics 101, Computer Literacy Level 1 – Computer Basics, and in Gale Course‘s Computer Skills For The Workplace.
Intermediate level learners, who would like to know more about the Microsoft Office suite of applications, can find courses in both Universal Class and Gale Courses. Just search for the specific product names like Microsoft Word, Excel, Access, Publisher, Powerpoint, or Office,and you will find courses for different software versions, e.g. Word 2010, Word 2019, Word 2007, etc.
Those keen in understanding more about the user interfaces of their computer’s operating systems, i.e. Windows 10, Window 8, or Windows 7, can find lessons in both Universal Class and Gale Courses. These courses are a great way to keep up with the ever-changing layouts, and ways of searching, filing, and tweaking your computer’s personal settings!
Those who would like to maximize the use of their email accounts, plus all the tools and features that go with them, can look for Microsoft Outlook, Gmail 101, Google Docs, Google Sheets, and Google Slides in the Universal Class course catalogs.
Advanced level computer learners (or those who would like to get into advanced level knowledge) can sign up with Gale Courses for: Introduction to PC Troubleshooting, Introduction to Programming, Introduction to PC Security, Advanced PC Security, Introduction to Networking, Intermediate Networking, Wireless Networking, Understanding the Cloud, and CompTIA A+ Certification Prep.
Gale Courses covers topics like taking care of your physical computer, setting up networks which could be a basis for setting up your home network, as well as other useful information.
If these computer learning courses don’t help for a DIY approach, the materials will still help you follow what your tech service concierge would be talking about. Now, if your go-to guys are your teen techies, grandkids, or maybe even your pre-schooler, you might even find a great way to bond over tech lessons!
Computers can be intimidating but if we try to learn more, bit by bit, we might be able to overcome that fear of not being capable of keeping up – and especially – that fear of not being capable of learning any more than what we are familiar with.
With the ever-evolving and fast-paced technology changes, can you imagine how we’ll all be able to manage several years from now… IF we don’t try to keep up now?
So, let’s keep trying… for computer learning… for lifelong learning…
Let’s Keep On Learning!
— Janea Agbayani, Adult Services Library Specialist
For more information, visit: www.livingstonlibrary.org/resources-az/
For other topics, themes, and resources suggested for lifelong learning pursuits, visit our blog under the tag: Keep On Learning.