Articles written by Carol Smith

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About me - Carol Smith

I am a computer teacher and IT troubleshooter. I specialise in trying to make computing fun, friendly and accessible to older learners. You can visit my website at http://www.it-teacher.co.uk to find out more about my work.

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Computers & Technology > Malware & Identity Theft How to prevent your PC from being infected with spyware: 2 of 31

What is spyware? Spyware is a form of malware (a generic term for pretty much anything that shouldn't be on your computer). Spyware is put on your computer by web sites for a variety of reasons. Collecting statistics, causing malicious damage, contacting unwanted websites, popping up adverts, dialling premium rate lines. Unl...
Education > Adult Education Tips for teaching adult learners instead of younger learners: 2 of 26

The term adult learners really covers anyone from 18 to 108. But usually the term is applied to adults who have not studied for a period of (sometimes many) years since leaving school or college. The first thing to remember when teaching adults is that they don't have to come to your class. They will return if they find the ...
Jobs & Careers > Resumes & Cover Letters How to write a resume when you are older but not retired: 2 of 14

If you are older and you are applying for a job you may feel that you could become a victim of age discrimination. It's hard applying for work when you feel that most employers will be looking for a younger person. It can be deeply depressing for some people, who feel that they are no longer wanted or needed and are being si...
Computers & Technology > Virus Protection & Maintenance Where to find free antivirus software downloading programs: 1 of 6

There are several free antivirus software programs available on the internet. These include AVG free, Avast, Avira Antivir, BitDefender, ClamWin. These can be downloaded and installed on your computer to provide you with protection from viruses, worms and trojans. It is worth noting that most are free for personal use only. ...
Computers & Technology > Internet Software & Utils Tips to diagnose and fix a slow running computer: 2 of 11

I am frequently contacted by clients whose computer is running much more slowly than normal. My first thoughts are always is their anti-virus software up to date and are they using effective antispy software? Malware ( a generic term referring to pretty much anything that shouldn't be on your computer) is being written at ab...
Computers & Technology > Malware & Identity Theft What to do if your computer is infected with a virus or spyware: 2 of 10

The first thing you should do If you think your computer has been infected by a virus or spyware is back up all your important documents, pictures, music, emails and your address book. Then at least you know that your data is safely stored before you start removing your unwanted visitor(s). Now try updating your antivirus so...
Computers & Technology > Internet Tips Seniors online: The benefits of computer usage in older generations: 1 of 5

As a teacher of computing to adults I find that overwhelming majority of my students are seniors. Why do they come and what benefits do they hope to gain? Just knowing the absolute basics of computing makes an older person feel that they have some idea of what everyone else is talking about. Once they've used a mouse and tur...
Computers & Technology > Computers & Technology (Other) Tips for calling technical support: 1 of 5

It happens to us all sooner or later. Our internet connection stops working or our computer seems to have gone on strike. Time to call the technical support line. I am frequently phoned by clients who ask me for technical support. I have the luxury of being able to visit their premises, but sometimes I can help them over the...
Computers & Technology > Internet Tips General email tips: 1 of 4

Email has become one of the most common methods of communication, and often the easiest and quickest. This can have its downsides. You open up your inbox to find a flood of spam (pills, potions and watches), scam (millions of pounds/dollars are yours), pointless offices emails (just to let you know..........) and forwarded j...
Computers & Technology > Internet Software & Utils Are Macintosh computers safe from online threats?: 1 of 4

Are Macintosh computers safe from online threats? The answer has to be a resounding NO. Until now it is true that there have been few viruses, worms or Trojans aimed directly at them. But the writers of such malware love a challenge and the thrill of being noticed. Macintosh computers are becoming more popular. More popular ...