Mark Leevan/Trendy Living
Examiner
Learning
computers can be a very exciting experience for seniors and technology novices.
However, the process can also be a little bit intimidating. These tips were obtained after thousands
of conversations with seniors first learning how to use the computer and the
internet and they offer this tips to help your parents, grandparents, or senior
friend get started on the computer.
1) Provide Encouragement
Many seniors
and first time users doubt their ability to learn how to use a computer, so it
is essential when you introduce technology to let them know that they are
capable of learning! Ordinary people, just like them, successfully learn to use
computers all the time. Allay their fears and concerns by providing reassurance
that they are just starting out, and like all beginners, will eventually master
the basics and move onto more advanced concepts.
2) Start with the Basics
This is
especially true for those who have never even touched a computer before. It may
be necessary to explain the parts of the computer – What is a mouse? How do the
screen/ touchscreen, keyboard, and mouse work together? What are the icons or
buttons on the screen, and what are their functions and meanings? It is crucial
not to dive right in, but to start with a basic outline of the foundation and
most common features.
3) Move in Incremental Steps
Overwhelming
the new user with too many instructions and features at once will only discourage
them. Start with the basics, and once they seem to have a grasp on those, move
on to one application at a time. A computer game, such as solitaire, can be a
great ice-breaker for beginners because it is familiar, fun, and provides
immediate feedback about performance. Email is another good starting point
because it can be easily related to traditional mail. Once the user starts
reading and sending emails to their family and friends, they will be motivated
to build on their success and learn additional skills.
4) Repeat, Repeat, Repeat
As with
learning any new concept, repetition is important. It is likely that the user
will need to be shown a task several times before being able to accomplish it
independently. Demonstrate a given task multiple times by slowly going through
the steps, stopping to answer any questions. Encourage them to continue
practicing the task independently. Be sure to emphasize the incremental and
repetitive nature of learning. Compare learning computer skills to learning other
tasks that are unlikely to be mastered in one session, such as driving a car.
5) Find Out Their Motivation For Learning Computers
You should not
assume you know what the user would like to do on the computer. Instead of asking
them which application they’d like to learn, ask them what they would like to
accomplish. For example, they will probably not say, “I want to learn how to
use the web browser,” but they might say, “I want to read about my antiques
collection.” You can then explain how the web browser can be used to research
antiques. If they wish to communicate with family or friends, then you will
know to start teaching email and video chat first.
6) Explain the Benefits of a Computer
This tip goes
hand in hand with the previous one. Many seniors say, “Why would I want to
learn to email or use the internet?” If you provide tangible examples of what a
computer can do for them, they will be more motivated to learn how to use it.
Explaining how they can see pictures of their grandchildren or how they can
look up health information with a computer will allow them to consider what they
are missing by not using one.
7) Describe Tasks, Concepts, and Features in a Relatable Manner
Because
beginners have limited computer experience, certain concepts may be difficult
for them to conceptualize. For instance, the idea of websites may be a little
confusing. Explain how a website is like a book – it has a cover (home page), a
table of contents (side navigation buttons), and many pages within it (each different
screen within a site).
8) Be Patient
This tip rings
true for anyone teaching any kind of new skill. Remember that your attitude will
affect the user’s attitude about the computer. Provide plenty of practice
opportunities for them and understand that there are individual differences in
learning. Seek feedback from the senior about what they find both challenging
and rewarding about computer use, and tailor your instruction to their
responses. Use more preferred computer activities to reinforce those that are
less preferred; for example, if games are a preferred activity, when teaching
internet searches, have the learner search the web for games.
9) Provide Support
No one wants
to be left with a machine that they cannot use and simply collects dust. Assure
your parents that you (or another teacher) will be there to help them learn how
to use the new device. This will allow them to be more open to trying things on
their own, because they know their helper can address questions as they arise.
New skills might be taught in a one on one session either in person or
remotely. Remote access allows the teacher to “drive” the learner’s computer and
provide “how to” information.
10) Use Encouragement
This point is
so important when helping first time computer users that it needs to be
repeated. Your enthusiasm about and dedication to helping them will not only
make the process easier for you, but it will also relax and encourage the
senior. Encourage the new learner by exchanging emails with them, having them
video chat with family members, sharing new photos, andbookmarking their
favorite sites. As they enjoy their new ways of connecting and exploring the
world, they will gain confidence to learn additional skills.