If you're not quite comfortable with the idea of turning on the computer and using the internet all by yourself, perhaps you would like to learn the basics of computing and internet. There are a few different ways to do this. First you could get the kids to teach you... if they would sit still for 30 seconds that is. Or you could buy a book, such as the "For Dummies" range. Far from being "dumbed down", these books explain in plain words what different computer terms mean and how to do certain things. For example there is "The Internet For Dummies", with chapters such as "What is the Net" and "The Internet, your kids, and you" and "Instant messages, when a minute just isn't soon enough". You could also get "PC's for Dummies", including "Just your basic computer guts" and "Other Internetty things". The books are quite humorous and a fun way to become familiar with computers.
Another idea is to do a course, such as those run by the WEA Adult Education Centre. Courses include "Using a Personal Computer", "Internet and the World Wide Web", "Creating Your Own Webpage" and even "Basic Computing for Seniors". At last count there were over 30 different computer courses available, with general overview courses and those for specific software titles. If you would like more information, just go to the WEA website at www.wea-sa.com.au and have a look around. |
