A survey used to support our new book, Teaching Computer Skills to Older Beginners, follows this page.
The survey arose out of contacts with computer teaching centers across the
country in a variety of settings and under diverse sponsorship which are now
using our successful book, Computer Smarts for Grandparents.
From those contacts it is apparent that, in spite of their diversity, a preponderance of those centers have something in common: Almost all of them established their programs based upon the ingenuity and creativity of the local instructor or director.
Contrasting their experience, many communities have told us they need and want computer skill training programs but lack the guidance of how to do it or even how to make use of willing teachers. This is occurring in an environment where a growing number of older adults -- those making career changes due to the economy as well as many who simply have become aware that computer skills are essential to their professional, social and financial well-being -- are seeking to develop or increase those skills.
As publisher of Computer Smarts for Grandparents, we have agreed to support this survey and publish its results. The publication is intended to provide basic guidance and a "jump start" to organizations wanting to establish a computer skills program of their own for older beginners.
Even if you have not been contacted by us independently, you are welcome to participate in the survey; individuals by telling us about the computer training that you regarded as superior, and organizations by telling us what made your program successful.
Participants who complete the simple, two-page form, either on-line or by mailing it to the address indicated, will receive a complimentary copy of the book as soon as it is published.
We hope you will share your success and recommendations through our survey with others who need our help.
