Personal computer instruction (tutoring) is a concept in which I really believe. I know it from firsthand experience when I was learning, and I have seen its value in the clients with whom I have had the pleasure to work.
Let’s say you need to learn how to use a particular program – for example, Microsoft Word. You already have Word installed on your computer, so you just need to make it do what you need it to do. You could go to your local bookstore (or Amazon) and buy one of those big $50 books that have everything you need to know (and stuff you don’t) in there. Or you can try to figure it out with the help of online videos ... too time consuming!
Now let’s look at a different scenario. You have Word open on your computer screen, but no book in front of you. Instead, sitting beside you is a patient teacher who is there to provide personal computer instruction. Now when something happens on the screen, and you don’t know what caused it or how to fix it, you can immediately ask the question on your mind: “What caused that? How do I fix it?” No fumbling through pages, or trying to look in an index…just a simple question, and an immediate answer. That’s the beauty of personal computer instruction.
It’s a good idea to have a running list of important questions, items or issues that you want to discuss, to make sure we go over everything that you want to learn. That way we have an agenda.
Here is my normal procedure for personal computer instruction on a particular procedure:
Maybe you want to learn how to send a picture by email. What I normally do is go through the process three times.
Step 1. The first time, I will go through the process slowly while you just watch. That way you get a good overview of what is involved.
Step 2. The second time, I will go through the same process, but this time you will take notes. You will write down each individual step that is required to complete the process in your own words that make sense to you.
Step 3. The third time, we will switch seats and you will do it, following your own directions that you wrote. This way, you will be able to follow the directions yourself even after I leave. If you have any problems following the steps, we can get that cleared up while I am still there.
Feel free to contact me with any questions.
Who says, “You Can’t Teach An Old Dog NEW Tricks!?” Not me! J