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you computer or just learn how to use eBay. Even the study of the discipline of genealogy and the "soft" art of quilting will find you in front of a computer or aided by a computer.

So, you've enter a class and you've noticed everyone pretty much knows something about the computer in varying degrees but you. What should you do?

First, don't give up, don't get discouraged and don't become intimidated! You're living in an age when learning the computer has never been easier. Honestly. This may sound as obscure to you as if someone would began to tell me how to do HTML programming for a big website like Amazon, but, when I first began to learn how to use a computer, I had to learn by using a DOS prompt. How can I explain the equivalent? That's kind of like going from cooking in the fireplace to cooking in the microwave...

Nowadays, once the computer is turned on, it is so user-friendly, it's basically point and click. How do you get to that point?
Start by letting your instructor know you are new to computers. Buddy up with someone in the class who is willing to "show you the way". Some people are very willing and glad to share their knowledge.

If you can, purchase a computer to practice your growing skills on at home. There is a wide price range so shop around. If you don't know what you want or need, ask someone who knows computers to make a recommendation or to go shopping with you. You'll also need some basic software on your computer, a monitor and maybe a printer. Optional items would include a scanner and fax. You could consider a laptop for mobility and convenience.

Where can you find assistance in learning the computer? You might be surprised, but your children or grandchildren could be perfect tutors for you at home. Most states allow citizens over the age of 55 to audit classes. That's a great, stress free option to learn beginning computing. No worries about tests to pass but, all the advantages of the knowledge.

Many of the community colleges and even some universities offer beginning computer class in their adult continuing education classes. These courses are often a fraction of the cost of regular college courses and sometime come with a certification.

Of course, you can be self taught. I learned a lot of my computer skills that way. There are books available, some with CD's that walk you through learning lessons. You can find any number of learning programs to purchase. These programs are usually on CD, so be sure your computer has a CD drive. Check

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