Computer and Web Articles

I’m occasionally approached on the streets of Frisco (OK, maybe just Main Street), in stores, in lift lines, etc. by kind people complimenting me on the writing I do for this column. Too often, though, these kind people follow their compliments with something along the lines of, ” … but much of the time what you write is just over my head.”

Because I by no means wish to exclude any of my fellow Summit countians, today’s column is for the beginners among us. No person shall be left behind as we march toward the future, hand in hand with technology!

For those of you still a bit intimidated by such things as computers and the internet - this one’s for you.

Computer Primer

Finally - a complete beginner’s guide to computers and the internet! No more fancy words or technical jargon. No more assumptions that you know as much as your children about the internet. “Computer Primer” is what you’ve been waiting for.

A few years following my graduation from the University of Denver’s Digital Media Studies MA program, a student named Nills Thingvall created an excellent tutorial entitled “Computer Primer.”

Though originally developed for seniors to make them “more comfortable and familiar with computers and using the internet,” I have found Thingvall’s computer primer to be a superior resource for anyone in the “beginner” category.

Within the beginner category, Thingvall divides up ability level even further, so that complete novices, beginners, occasional users and experienced beginners all receive their own customized lessons.

A handy print manual, a useful glossary, and big bright “Forward” and “Backward” buttons make this website friendly and extraordinarily simple to use.

If you’re interested in starting fresh and learning the basics about computers and the internet — or if you know someone who would benefit from using Computer Primer, simply connect to the internet and go to www.seniorcomputerprimer.com.

Other computer basics websites

Perhaps Computer Primer isn’t for you? Here are a few other excellent websites that will help you move off the bunny hill of the technology world:

1. Jan’s Web Work: Go to www.jegsworks.com and click on the picture of the computer next to the words “Jan’s Illustrated Computer Literacy 101.”
2. Jane’s Place: Not a beginner’s guide, but instead a site filled with tips and tricks for people wanting to learn more: www.janes-place.com/newbietips.htm.
3. Newbie: Everything from the essentials of computer use (like copy and paste) to warnings and cautions about using the internet: www.newbie.org.

Have fun with your learning, dear beginners! And remember, if you have any questions at all, I’m only an email away.