I’ve had computer literacy since I was a little girl. Because of my disability, which prevented me from using my hands well, the computer was introduced to me at a young age. Thanks to learning how to use a computer, I’m independent. I’m able to work, pay my own bills, write, enjoy social media and surf the internet.
Many are not so fortunate to know the ins and outs of computers and their programs, which causes them to fall behind in the world today. As you know, technology is the way of the world, and to keep up or even compete, you must know how to use a computer.
Learning to navigate a basic computer with Windows and its programs can be intimidating. There’s a lot of mouse clicking, control, alt, delete, holding, cutting, pasting, and checking mail. These are just some of the basic things you’ll need to know about the Microsoft computer program, which, as the young say, everyone is using.
Learning Microsoft and its functioning features is very important. To get a job, schooling, or for whatever, you can best believe there’s going to be one day you’re going to need to know how to use a computer.
Due to the overwhelming demand for society to have computer skills, many organizations like Goodwill Easterseals Miami Valley offer programs to learn digital skills through scholarships and other opportunities.
Organizations are teaching computer skills, from how to turn one on to operating programs like Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and Outlook. Staff who are knowledgeable of computers and programs can teach these skills at your level.
As I mentioned earlier, computers are the world today. Computers can do many things, from doctor’s appointments to attending meetings. Because of this new digital wave, I’ve been able to participate in more advocacy meetings via Zoom that I might have missed in the past because of transportation issues. This digital wave has been a Godsend to others with similar issues. For people who do not know how to access a computer and its programs, there’s a good possibility they will miss out on great opportunities.
Learning new things can often be daunting. Computers can seem scary, and programs can seem complicated to understand at first, but with the proper training, it’s just like riding a bike. Once you catch on, you’ll always know how to do it.
Tomorrow, Thursday, February 13th, is National Digital Learning Day. I’m thankful that this is a day that awareness is brought to how learning computer skills will open a world of new possibilities. With this, I would like to challenge you to learn a new computer program, Zoom meet with someone, Google something, try a social media avenue, or simply turn on a computer.
Remember, possibilities are right at your fingertips!