Back to Basics: Beginner Computer Classes offered for November

How do you turn this on? Why is this called a mouse? Why is it called "Windows," and where are the curtains? 

It seems that practically everything we do uses a computer. For many who have never dealt with a computer, these every-day operations can be daunting. Just the terminology alone can send someone screaming back to the pre-Y2K hills!

The Regional Library Computer Center offers basics courses to introduce people to computers. The courses and trainers help technology newbies become less intimidated with working on a PC. All it requires in taking the first step and then one-step at a time. It takes time and practice.

For those who have had a class or more under their belt, here are some web sites for practice. The more you become familiar with the basics, the sooner you can take the next step.

Mouse Exercises Tutorials:

• http://www.pbclibrary.org/mousing/ The Palm Beach County Library offers tutorials to help beginners learn to use the mouse. The “Mousing Around” tutorial is a more detailed session. “Mousercise” helps you practice mousing skills learned from “Mousing Around” or other lessons. “Practice Games” are fun ways to practice your mousing skills.

• http://www.seniornet.org/howto/mouseexercises/mousepractice.html This resource is for the beginner, new to dealing with a mouse. Sometimes, it takes a little practice to get the hang of it.

• http://www.skillfulsenior.com/skills/mouse/ This is another site that offers tutorials for the beginner. A virtual tutor helps you with your lessons.

Typing Tutorials:

• http://www.typingweb.com/ TypingWeb is a free online typing tutor & keyboarding tutorial for typists of all skill levels. TypingWeb includes entertaining typing games, typing tests, and free official typing certification.

• http://www.learn2type.com/ This website had typing tutorials and a typing speed test. There is also a kids section. You do need to enter an email address to register for this site. The only drawback is the advertising on the site, which gives it a cluttered appearance.

• http://www.keybr.com/ The virtual keyboard allows you to practice your touch typing skills. Go to the site, select your keyboard, and give it a try.

• http://www.powertyping.com/ This website has typing lessons that also provide feedback when you make a mistake. You can see how fast and how accurate you are typing. Make sure you look for the QWERTY link for lessons on the QWERTY keyboard. Begin with lesson 1 and proceed as you wish.

• http://www.sense-lang.org/typing/tutor/keyboarding.php With 15 lessons, you can begin with lesson 1 and graduate to lesson 15. You can take your time

November classes are also open for registration. All classes are held in the Regional Library Computer Center, located on the fourth floor of the Linn-Henley Research Building. Registration is required for all classes. Please note that we will not offer classes in December.