Technology Classes for Beginners

Computer Basics for the Computer-Baffled

Slow-Paced Technology Classes for Total Beginners

Today’s information landscape relies on your basic computer skills. But what to do if you never learned that in school? This series aims to help!

The entire series is eight sessions long, broken up into two parts. You may want to start at the beginning and build your skills, but you can jump in any time. Come once or to every session! No registration is required, just drop in. Light snacks and beverages will be provided and those who attend all eight session will receive a USB external storage device (don’t worry you’ll learn how to use it!) Each individual session will happen twice, so if you miss a session or want to try again, you can! Or bring a friend to the next run.

Bring a laptop if you have one, or call ahead to reserve a library laptop. Classes are held in the Local History Alcove on the second floor on Thursday afternoons from 2 to 3 pm. For more information, call 315-789-5303 ext. 200 or email genevaref@owwl.org. You can also drop by the library and pick up a brochure with all the class dates and information.

Part One: Building Blocks

Session 1: Computer Terms

What is a cursor? What is a URL? When someone talks to you about computers, do they sound like they’re talking in a different language? Learn some of the most common terms for navigating the digital space.

Dates: September 4, October 30

Session 2: Digital Hieroglyphics

There are a lot of symbols on a computer or smartphone screen. Decipher important ones like “menu,” “power,” “download,” and more in this session.

Dates: September 11, November 6

Session 3: Mouse Skills

You’d be surprised how just holding a mouse differently can change your life! Join us to practice your mouse muscles and improve your experience with computers.

Dates: September 18, November 13

Session 4: Get Confident with Email

Your email is the key to accessing many online resources. It’s important to feel confident logging in and navigating your email.

Dates: September 25, November 20

Part Two: Explore with Confidence!

Session 5: Internet Navigation

If the Internet is a highway, internet browsers are your cars and search engines are your map. Learn about the difference between each model, tips on how to use them, and which one might be right for you.

Dates: October 2, December 4 (skipping Thanksgiving)

Session 6: Smartphones 101

Smartphones and computers are very similar! A lot of what we have already learned can be applied to your cell phone, but things will look a little different. Bring any smartphone to this class.

Dates: October 9, December 11

Session 7: Accounts and Passwords

Do you find yourself in the dreaded loop of password resets every time you try to log in to your email, Facebook, or job application? Learn how to create accounts, keep track of your passwords, and prevent this from happening!

Dates: October 16, December 18

Session 8: Saving and Storing Your Files

We will discuss two ways of keeping your files organized and accessible: External Storage on a USB and Google Drive. It is recommended to have a Google account before attending this class.

Dates: October 23, January 8