[OPLINTECH] Computer Training Tips

[Karen Perone]

Rodman Library has a very successful computer training program ranging 
from Mouse Basics to Designing a Web Site. Details can be found at 
http://www.rodmanlibrary.com/rpl/activities/inetclas.htm

I've been leading the training here for 10 years and have discovered a 
few things that I incorporate in our offerings and share with our 
instructors.

First, never assume that the people sitting in front of you know all the 
basics. When you write the descriptions for the classes, include 
pre-requisites - must know how to use a mouse; must be familiar with the 
Internet; must know how to type and use a word processor.

Second, offer the basics classes before you offer more advanced classes. 
We have a sequence and partner specific classes together - Mouse basics 
is closely followed by Windows Basics and Internet Basics, for example.

Third, if the material is too long for one session (ours range from 1 
hour to 2) then make it a series where they have to attend all the 
classes. Web Design is a 4-week series with assignments each week; 
sometimes Word is single topics, sometimes a series.

Last, don't just stand at the teacher's station and expect everyone to 
be able to follow what you are doing. I burn more calories in some of 
the classes I teach than I do on the treadmill! Never move on to the 
next step until everyone is at the same point. Sometimes people do get 
in over their heads (didn't read the requisites) and you have to ask 
them to just follow along so the whole class doesn't suffer.

We also offer an open lab once a month where people can practice what 
they've learned in class and ask questions. This is slowly catching on.

HTH -- Karen Perone

millerst at oplin.org wrote:
> I was talking to a staffmember who presented a very well-attended public
> workshop about eBay.
> 
> He said he had to radically change gears when most of the participants
> stared blankly at him as he mentioned having two windows open (cutting and
> pasting info between windows).  "I just assumed that people coming to an
> eBay class wouldn't need help on the basics."
> 
> That got me going and I extemporized a meditative haiku to console my
> coworker on his first public-training experience...
> 
> Today's lesson is simple.
> Yet, the student blinks.
> Smile and scream inside my skull.
> 
> In this vein, does anyone have any tips or suggestions on how to (in
> general) teach computers and technology to a willing (yet possibly
> inexperienced) public?
> 
> Steve
> 

-- 
Karen Perone              peroneka at oplin.org
Systems Coordinator
Rodman Public Library     voice: 330-821-2665
215 E. Broadway Street    fax: 330-821-5053
Alliance, OH 44601        http://www.rodmanlibrary.com