by Todd Pheifer

Created on: January 11, 2008

Going back to school can be an intimidating experience, particularly if an adult learner is unfamiliar with computer technology or feels that they are not totally "up to speed". Many older adult learners have functioned most of their lives without extensive computer usage and may not be open to learning a new skill. There are many opportunities for adult education today, but some adults shy away from these opportunities because they are intimidated by computer usage. Here are some thoughts on computer literacy and how it affects the adult learner.

There is nothing wrong with taking a basic computer class first

Many adult education schools and community colleges offer basic training in computer software since there are plenty of people who need to catch up. People who are unfamiliar with hardware and software can get introductory knowledge so that they are more equipped to pursue other educational opportunities. With many adults going back to school, instructors are becoming increasingly used to people who did not grow up with computer technology. That said, the learning curve in college can be steep, so adult learners should not assume that instructors will automatically give them the benefit of the doubt.

Computer skills that are important for the adult learner

There are a number of things that an adult learner should strive to learn in terms of computer literacy in order to be successful in education. For one, basic comfort with the overall functions of the computer is an important first step. Typing, use of the mouse, and basic hardware functionality are also key skills. In addition, the adult learners should have some use of peripheral devices such as jump/flash drives, scanners, digital cameras, and printers. Once an adult learner gains some comfort with a computer, they should learn basic word processing, spreadsheet, and Internet navigation. The reason is that education requires writing, computations, charts, and Internet-based research on a regular basis. All of these basic computer skills will be essential for the aspiring adult learner.

Adult learners can survive without advanced computer literacy but they should strive to improve as they go along. Many educators know that comfort with computers takes time for adult learners. However, adult learners should not assume that since they did not need computer literacy when they were in school, that they don't need it now. Today, education at all levels requires the use of the computer, whether to write a basic paper or to do research on the Internet. All adult learners should strive to develop some level of computer literacy in order to maximize their success in education.

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