My LTTE, "Computers may not be easy, but all can learn"

[CK_John]

This was a rebuttal to someone who was frustrated about job searching and I wanted to help. Please note the use of "tutorial" and pass along this to someone who may think that computer usage is beyond their grasp.

Actual letter;

False: only the young and tech savvy can master a computer. True: the young are not afraid of computers. Fear is the biggest problem with the 50's somethings from being proficient and gaining a job in the office market.

I'd like to present some positive information for those 50's something looking for work which require office computer skills without saying it is easy, and to others just getting started. Like any craft you need to know how to use the tools of your trade. First rule; there is no one way to do anything on a computer, you must discover the best way for you. Memorization is not very useful. Second rule; everything on a computer screen is a symbol and has a function. Kids just find out by random clicking and discovery, be smarter and learn what things do.

Here how to start, You need internet access and a computer or a library with one. Get someone to help if needed, a friend or the librarian and go to www.google.com. The following word is the key and it is "tutorial". Place almost any word in front of tutorial and you will get a lesson guide on any topic. Here is my list for beginners and pros. Start with keyboard tutorial, mouse tutorial, word tutorial, excel tutorial, powerpoint tutorial and openoffice tutorial.

Remember, if it was easy everyone would do it.

End of letter;

[Rue]

1. My father took computer programming courses in the late 70s.

He told me that, even then, he knew computers would change the world now. He's 54 years old now and has no trouble taking a computer apart to inspect the components. In fact, I would say he has less fear of the things than twenty-something me!

His experience might be a bit atypical, but it shows that an older person can learn and understand contemporary technology. I wish luck to the person you wrote this letter to and any older person dealing with computers.