Computer basics

[Kingstech]

Sorry if this is in the wrong place. Please move if it is.

 

I've been asked to run a Six week computer basic evening class. Mostly it will be for older people. I was wondering if anyone else here has done them before? Just looking for ideas if possible please?

[ITGURU]

I've done this in the past, IT for the old folks.

We got them doing emails and basic word stuff like letter writing etc.

Then going onto the internet and searching for something they're interested in.

[Kingstech]

That is the sort of thing I was thinking of doing. Just trying to write up some notes and information for it and plan out the 6 weeks.

[NadalyaK]

Most of these courses for older people cover just basics, e.g. how to start a computer, use a mouse, browse the Internet... Just simple stuff.

[jamesb]

How to use and look at family on facebook might be a good one to have.

[elsiegee40]

Passwords!

 

What's less likely to be guessed - not using the same one for everything - lastpass - systems for remembering different ones (e.g. Song titles from your favourite band - so a Dire Straits fan might use:

Mon£y4Nothing for eBay,

Sultans0fSwing! for iTunes,etc)

[GeekyPete]

First few modules of ECDL should about cover it. There's lots of materials out there you could recycle.

 

Do just enough hardware so that they know that case isn't the hard drive. Concentrate on success after that. Email, Social media are both good to get people actually doing something. A very simple budgeting spread sheet. Remember it's only to show then that Spread sheets exist and maybe spark an interest. Avoid actual databases. If you want to get them storing and retrieving data get them to set up a Google account and add contacts. Connecting a phone or digital camera if they have one perhaps in the later weeks. Playing Movies and or music might be good too. My Dad (in his 80's) loves youtube now he's found Nat King Cole and Tony Bennet on there!

[comrade]

I used to help out with these sorts of classes a few times.

 

They would start with the computers turned off, and go all the way through, setting them up an email account, writing down the details, how to search the web etc.

 

Youtube is good once they can get to it, searching for various things.

 

However some people could not get the hang of it at all.

 

If you have ever watched the the Osbournes, there is a clip with Ozzy Osbourne trying to use a computer, that sort of sums it up.

[Kingstech]

First few modules of ECDL should about cover it. There's lots of materials out there you could recycle.

 

Do you have any info on the ECDL modules?

[NotSoFast]

Genealogy?

[dblight]

Do you have any info on the ECDL modules?

 

 

ECDL / ICDL - ECDL Foundation