Enrolling in a community college course that teaches the skills needed to operate a computer properly is one of the simplest ways to improve computer skills, but the student will need to invest time and money in the course to get the most out of it. If classes are not available locally, students can enroll in online courses that focus on improving computer skills; however, before enrolling in such classes, the student must first determine which skills need to be developed.
Some courses concentrate on a single program or set of programs, while others cover a broad range of computer skills. A prospective student must assess his or her current level of ability and set goals for taking classes. Some students will require specific computer skills focused on a specific program or process, while others may wish to improve their general skills in order to increase their marketability as a potential employee. By selecting the most appropriate course, the student will be able to gain access to relevant skills.
If classes are not an option, improving computer skills can be accomplished learning from more experienced friends or family members who have a thorough understanding of the skills required. Try to enlist the help of a patient friend or family member who can clearly explain complicated concepts. Because the person who knows the most about computer topics isn’t always the best teacher, both the teacher and the student can quickly become frustrated. It is beneficial to learn from someone who is not only knowledgeable about specific computer skills but also patient enough to explain them, sometimes several times.
Books and manuals can also be found in bookstores and libraries. Such books or manuals are probably a good choice if the person in need of skills development is a good reader or can follow step-by-step instructions fairly easily. Books on computer skills cover a wide range of topics, while others focus on specific skills, programs, or techniques. Advanced users may want to look into more complicated manuals or even talk to computer professionals about an internship or entry-level position. Many of the skills that need to be developed can be learned in a job setting under the guidance of a more experienced professional; this is a particularly good option for anyone who is a visual or hands-on learner.