Since I am older than most clients of the Fortune Society, I was not exposed to the modern computer when I was in school. In college, the computer system involved punch cards being fed into a huge machine that filled up an entire room! Now, a cell phone has more computer sophistication than the computer capabilities of the Apollo 11 space mission!
Since I am still reintegrating into society and into the workforce, knowledge of modern computers is extremely helpful and, in most cases, mandatory. Knowledge of modern computers is also extremely helpful with taking classes online, and communicating with friends, colleagues, and teachers.
I have found that in the workplace, younger people with much better computer skills are very happy to take the time to help me. One example is Microsoft Word, with columns and rows and inserting data chronologically into the proper space for the columns and rows. I am also learning outlook, which is helping in a new career that I am starting. However, I really want to be as independent as I can be with computer skills, and rely less and less on others to help me.
I thoroughly enjoy the Fortune Society Digital Equity Program. I have learned basic computer skills like mousing and use of the keyboard. I am advancing to more advanced skills like Excel. The instructors are very thorough and patient. I would highly recommend the program for anyone looking to improve his or her computer skills. I am also learning how to use Google Docs.
I can write documents that I can edit and share with colleagues so they can edit as well. Another skill I am learning is how to share my screen so I can do things like tutor students who are also in front of a computer screen. I am also learning not only how to participate in a Zoom conference but also how to initiate my own Zoom conference and how to do breakout sessions.
Also, I have learned about computer safety and how to be aware of scams, viruses, and worms.
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This post is a part of the Digital Equity Team's Fortune Bloggers initiative, featuring posts written by Fortune participants themselves about their experience with the digital divide. For more Fortune Blogger features, click the tag below.
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