Computer Basics

[Mad Hatter]

If you went to a Beginning computer class, what would want to learn?

(I know that there are people out there that are beyond the "beginners class", but that's fine. I wold love to hear from an experienced computer person.)

Anything about computer basics you want or think someone else should know...

[Bones]

First of all, what is a computer?

It sounds like a silly question, but I've done some volunteer work where people have bought one, and they can't get it to work. So a good familiarization course, covering how to put the system together is needed.

"I can't connect to the internet."

Well, of course they can't, because they have failed to plug into their phone line, or signed up for an internet provider.

Operating system basics, would be a must. Most of the people that I've dealt with, have never touched a computer in their lives. So Windows is a foreign environment to them.

Once they have the Basics down, you can customize your course in regards to what your students actually want to use their computers for. Be it accessing the internet, sending e-mail, whatever.

Never make fun of your customer, if they say something stupid. If you have to laugh, say something like: " That's so funny!!! I asked the same question a few years ago, and it's really simple...."

You have to be people centric, have a good sense of humor, and be able to listen to the questions that your students are asking of you. Never degrade them in front of their peers.

NBTP

[dk]

Yeah, very basic hardware/software concepts would be a good place to start.

One of my first college courses in informations systems management had to do with hardware/software concepts. We covered stuff that today barely even seems worth going over such memory, cpu, hard drive, etc. Most people who sign up for a beginner course will more than likely want to know how a computer can make their life easier though, so it might be best to stick to material that'll actually make an immediate impact on a beginner.

[DocTurtle]

I would imagine it would be "Computer for Dummies". I've never taken a class for it, but one of these days it wouldn't hurt if I did.

[Mad Hatter]

Thank you guys! I want to explain to the class simple concepts and basics. how to use the computer, very little history behind it, explain different words used so if they are asked... How much memory does it have... they won't say about 300 gbs. Saving files, organizing files, simple troubleshooting, interent basics, JU forums... stuff like that.

Please keep'em coming.

[dk]

Porn! Teach them about porn! :D

[Mad Hatter]

Maybe you can be one my guest speaker... We can come the the prison cell to meet you... "look class, this is what happens when you download kiddy porn. Say it with me class... PETERASS!!" :D

Just kidding!!

[dk]

Read my sig foolio.

[Mad Hatter]

"I am sofa king we todd did!!!"

I wonder how many people are like WTF?

[DoctorP]

I'm not gonna say it...no way! lol

[Tempestuous]

Might be good to also teach how to adjust the start up items so they can learn how to NOT have 85 programs that start up and run in the background.....most of which DON'T need to open on start up.

[Bones]

As posted by Temp:

Might be good to also teach how to adjust the start up items so they can learn how to NOT have 85 programs that start up and run in the background.....most of which DON'T need to open on start up.

I think that something like what you have proposed, would be better saved for an advanced course.

For the basic course, just explaining how to navigate around the Windows environment, explaining how to install new software programs, attach new peripherals to their systems, how to connect to the "Internet", the importance of applying new patches to the operating system, anti-virus programs etc, should be enough.

This would also be a good time to discuss security issues.

NBTP

[The_Zach2681]

I think windows should come with a complimentary handgun, so when you're completely pissed at microsoft and Bill Gate's devilish creation you have the option to end the misery by offing yourself or trying to off Bill Gates...