Once upon a time, only highly trained engineers and scientists were able to operate computers effectively. These computers filled entire rooms and required very sophisticated knowledge and skills. At that time, the idea of a personal computer seemed like science fiction and few people ever imagined how common and indispensable these machines would become. Better yet, that you could even take computer-based training courses on the Internet to learn about computers.
Today, computers seem to be everywhere. The computing power in your cell phone or TiVo® exceeds that of those room-filling dinosaurs, and most people you know probably own at least one personal computer. Everyday tasks – from banking to shopping to communication – are faster and simpler than ever before, thanks to the enormous power of these little machines. With the plethora of computer-based learning available today, even the most technically challenged can learn these simple tasks without even leaving the house.
If you’re like many people, however, you’re probably taking advantage of a very small portion of your computer’s functionality. While you might have learned the basics about sending and receiving e-mail or composing letters, your computer and its software are capable of so much more that it can be overwhelming. Fortunately, thanks to the very same power that makes these computers so intimidating, you can now learn about computers from the comfort of your home with online computer-based learning. Most software today includes extensive support services, while the majority even have computer-based training courses included with the purchase of the new software. In fact, if you’re reading this article right now, you have all the necessary skills to tackle any computer skill you choose. All it takes is some goals, the right resources and a little self-discipline.
Once you’ve set a goal, it’s time to find the right learning materials. While countless books exist on the marketplace to teach you the facts about every computer subject and skill you can imagine, studies show that most adults learn new skills best by practicing them. For this reason, often the most effective approach is to learn about computers while using a computer. A simple Internet search, using your favorite search engine, with terms like “computer-based learning” or “computer-based training courses”, will direct you to numerous web sites that offer computer-based training courses for the skills you need. Choose a company with a name you know and an established reputation for quality training courses and dive in.
Computer-based learning of computer skills has a number of advantages over books and classroom-based training. First of all, you have the opportunity to practice your skills as you learn them. This means that your learning is immediately reinforced with action. Additionally, computer-based training courses will provide you with real-time feedback on your performance of these new skills. You won’t have to guess whether you’re doing it right or not – the computer will tell you. Online computer-based learning also allows you to learn at your own pace and to prove your mastery of skills once you’re ready. Finally, many computer-based training courses provide the opportunity to interact with a community of people taking the courses with you. Using e-mail, online chat and other methods, you can actually talk to and get to know people from around the world who are trying to learn about computers just like you. Knowing that other people are going through a similar experience can keep you motivated and even help you learn in unexpected ways.
The most difficult thing about learning anything about computers – aside from overcoming your fear and taking control – is motivating yourself and staying disciplined about your learning. Many people choose classroom-based computer training over online computer-based training courses, just so that they have a face-to-face encounter with a teacher and other students that keep them accountable for their learning. However, the same accountability can be part of computer-based learning. As was mentioned before, the online community of fellow learners can help you stay focused and disciplined, but you might need real world motivation as well. One way to do this is to involve people close to you in your learning. After you’ve established your goal, share it with a close friend, spouse or family member, and encourage that person to follow up with you on your progress at regular intervals throughout your learning experience. By making yourself accountable to this person for results and progress in your learning, you’ll reinforce your own self-motivation and increase your odds of success.
The almost infinite possible applications of computers today can make the prospect of learning about them scary. However, with a clear goal, the right learning resources and the right amount of motivation, you can learn about computers quickly and easily. Follow these simple guidelines and you’ll soon be that much closer to that raise, promotion or simply impressing your precocious nephew.
