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Emme Tomimbang: Making Her Mark |
| The veteran television broadcaster talks frankly about her personal life and amazing career. |
Back to School |
| Serving as teachers’ aides in the classroom,
senior volunteers are making a big difference in the lives of Hawaii’s children. |
DEPARTMENT:
Demystifying the Computer
The world runs on computers. And why not? E-mail is easy, fast and free. All government agencies and organizations of any size have Web sites with vast amounts of helpful information. These days, it’s likely that when you ask for information you’ll be directed to the Internet.
Have questions about the new Medicare plans? Check out www.medicare.gov. Need answers to Social Security questions? Go to www.ssa.gov. Like looking at photos of friends and family from afar? You’d better get used to receiving them on your computer. Among other camera manufacturers, Nikon recently announced that in the future it won’t make film cameras, only digital ones.
It’s all a little overwhelming for people who were born and raised BC (before computers). Whether we like it or not, being computer literate is fast becoming mandatory. Most people learn about computers on the job by asking coworkers or experts in their Information Technology department for help. But when you’re no longer in the workplace and don’t have friends who are computer savvy, what can you do?
Fortunately, many computer classes are available on Oahu, ranging from introductory courses to sophisticated programming seminars. Some are tailored specifically for seniors; for example, Karla Graham, Director of Educational Outreach at SuperGeeks, instructs a group of residents at the Hawaii Kai Retirement Community every week.
Other computer companies, community centers and even colleges offer classes as well (see sidebar). The key is to find one that is appropriate for you. Graham offers these tips:
• Have an idea of what you want to learn. Taking a class on the Windows operating system that powers most PCs will be interesting, but if what you really want to do is learn how to send e-mail and surf the Internet, make sure the class you choose will cover these subjects.
• Jot down a list of the things you want to learn, take it to the first class and share it with the instructor.
• Choose classes that are geared for seniors. The pace may be slower, but you’ll have a lot of time for hands-on practice.
• Enroll in a small interactive class of six to eight people.
• Have an open mind about learning. Computers aren’t the most user-friendly machines, but neither are bicycles. Once you learn the basics, you can ride a bike without thinking about it. The same is true for computers.
• Ask the instructor to repeat anything that isn’t clear. Ideally, written instructions should be provided so you can repeat each step on your own.
Finally, set aside your pride and be patient; even the most skilled technicians started at Step One. Many seniors who have attempted to develop computer skills experience frustration at one time or another. Don’t be discouraged. You just need the right instructor—one who will speak clearly, provide written notes, allow enough time for hands-on experience and make the class enjoyable as well as informative.
James Kerr is President/CEO of SuperGeeks, a Hawaii-based computer service and repair company (www.supergeeks.net). Send your questions, comments and suggestions to him at help@supergeeks.net.