As with virtually anything, particularly things that are complex, the use of the Internet requires some learning. That is to say that the Internet is not inherently self intuitive. The lack of that knowledge leads to confusion, however.

Part of the learning curve entails learning terminology that is used for the Internet. Terms like URL, browser, cache, website and a host of others can be confusing to someone who is exposed to the Internet for the first time. Thankfully, most of them are pretty easy to define and to understand, however a computer user must have an idea of where or how to get the definitions that they need.

They must also learn how to use the various Internet tools that are available to them. This takes time, though it isn't especially difficult, and the tools are still usable to a beginner, while they learn. For instance, a beginner really doesn't need to know about browser settings, and they certainly don't need to know how a browser works, in order to use the browser. All they need to know is where to type in a web address and what to click, in order for the browser to take them to where they want to go on the Internet.

Naturally, the more they know about the web browser, the better they are able to use it to its full potential. Some of this is not that apparent, though. For example, knowing where to type the web address isn't enhanced all that much by knowing that the place is called the 'address bar'. But knowing that it is called an address bar does tend to make a person a little more comfortable with using it and talking about it.

Confusion can also come from things that are not deliberately meant to confuse, such as error messages. Receiving a message that reads 404 Web Site Not Found' can bewilder the beginner. To the more seasoned Internet user, the message is pretty self-explanatory. But to the beginner, very often the thought is, 'What does that mean?' or 'How do I fix it?'

Another point of confusion is also related to terminology, but having to do with either slang. What does it mean, 'Google it?'. Even computer dictionaries usually don't cover the slang terms that a user is exposed to. For explanation, the user needs to have access to a more seasoned or knowledgeable Internet user who will answer their questions without making it seem like they are asking a stupid question. In truth, the only stupid question is the one that isn't asked.

Come to think about it, the term 'user' can be confusing. In the modern world where this term is often meant to refer to someone who uses drugs, until a person understands that when talking about computers, a user is simply someone who uses the computer or Internet, a person might be inclined to think of the term negatively.

The confusion is often compounded by web sites that are poorly designed and which give a user far too many options, too. Often, webmasters don't realize that giving people too many options can be as bad as not giving them enough.

The confusion about the Internet is part of a vast learning curve. But it is important that all of us understand that since the Internet is ever changing, it is a learning curve without an end. Take every piece of information you gain as a success. When you do this, the confusion is replaced by a sense of accomplishment and a thrill of knowledge that is learned. After all, the Internet is made up of all of us, so you are a part of the whole.

Learn more about this author, Rex Trulove.
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