Computer Classes

2012 COMPUTER TRAINING SCHEDULE

No matter what your skill level with computers, we have a class for you! Our hands-on computer training is led by skilled instructors, and is conducted at the Traverse City Senior Center. Our Senior Center has all new computers, compliments of Carol Brown, who teaches here at the Senior Center, and all have internet access. Photo of computer lab

To ensure students receive personal attention and plenty of time for questions and answers, classes are limited to 9 students. Each student will have their own fast and reliable computer to use during class, and handouts are provided in the class. There is a brief description of the regular classes below the schedule. New classes are added all the time.

The fee for classes is $25 for members, and $40 for non-members. Most classes run from 9:30 am to 11:30 am, and reservations are required. Our classes fill up fast, so make sure to book your seat today! Please call or stop by the Traverse City Senior Center for more information, or to register for classes.

Carol Brown also gives private instructions to members, by appointment, for $35 per hour.

Intro to Computers - This class is designed for people who have or are thinking of buying a new computer, beginners who want to learn about computers, or for anyone who would like a refresher on the basics. It is a hands-on class that takes you through the basic skills needed to effectively use your computer. We begin with a basic understanding of the parts of a computer, a review of computer terminology, learn the correct use of a mouse, cover the keyboard, and finish with practice in the use of some of the basic programs. This class is a beginner level class.

Basics 1 - This class is designed for any level of computer user who needs to know more about their computer. Most of us use a computer for one or two things, whether at work or at home, but know very little about anything else on the computer. This class is structured to fill in the gaps in your computer knowledge. We explain how things work and how to get the computer to work for you, in basic terms. Learn about program basics, windows, toolbars, menus, the control panel, networking, drives, and more! This is a beginner level class.

Basics 2 - Once you have the basics down, take Basics 2 to continue to learn more about using your computer effectively. We cover opening, closing, editing, and printing documents. Learn how to save files, pictures and/or attachments correctly, and where to save them so you can find them again. This is a great class for all levels of users, but you should take Basics 1 first.

Internet 1 - Surfing the Web - In this class we cover the basics of the internet: how it started, how you can get connected, connection types, wireless options, and more! We also show you how to find the websites and information you are looking for on the web, how to use search engines such as Google; and visit many other useful sites including MapQuest, Wikipedia, Google Earth, IMDB, and more!. This is a beginner level class.

Facebook - Facebook is one of the most popular social networking sites on the internet. You can use Facebook to stay in touch with old friends, meet new friends, share pictures/video, stay in touch with family, and more! You can update Facebook from any computer with an internet connection, or even your smart phone (Blackberry or iPhone). In our 3 hour class we will start out by setting up your Facebook site, show you how to upload a profile picture, how to add photo albums, how to write on a wall, how to send messages, how to add friends and more! This is a beginner level class, although you should be comfortable using a mouse, using email, and working on a computer.

Microsoft Excel 1 - Microsoft Excel is one of the most powerful programs on the market today. Excel is a spreadsheet program that has built-in functionality to track, soft, filter, and analyze data quickly. The Excel spreadsheets can be used to manage contacts and budgets, for bookkeeping, and more! This is an intermediate level class.

Carol S. Brown has worked and trained in the computer industry for over 17 years, and has been a trainer at the Traverse City Senior Center for over 11 of those years. She specializes in training adult learners, including seniors. She conducted computer classes for companies including Compaq Computers, Best Data, and LinkSys; and for federal agencies including the General Services Administration, USGS, and the Department of Veterans Affairs. Carol has lived and worked in Traverse City for over 12 years; is the owner and a computer trainer for the TC Training Center; and teaches for local companies including Munson Medical Center, Hagerty Insurance, Northwestern Bank, Crystal Mountain Resorts, Traverse City Light and Power, and more!

Computer Experience - You do not need to have any computer experience to take our Intro to Computers class. If you take any of the other courses, you should have some computer experience, or have taken our Intro class.

Bring your own computer - You're always welcome to bring your own laptop computer. Some classes require special programs and/or sample files, and we can help determine if you have the required programs. If you do not have the programs, you will need to use a lab computer. Please arrive early so we can help you set up your computer and confirm you have everything that you need for class. Remember to bring your power cable!

Apple or Mac Computers - All our classes are on computers with the Windows operating system, such as Compaq, Dell, IBM, HP, etc. If your have an Apple/Mac computer, you do not have Windows, and our classes probably won't be helpful to you. We can provide contacts for people who offer Apple/Mac training.

Email Class - We are conducting this class using Gmail as an email system. We have test accounts set up for you to use. The information covered in class can be applied to any email account including Charter, AOL, Yahoo, Hotmail, etc. We also offer one-on-one training if you would like our help to set up your own email account.

One-on-one Training - Our instructors also offer private training. & The rate for Senior Center members is $35 per hour when the class is conducted at the Senior Center. All other rates, locations, and available dates and times can be discussed by calling Carol Brown at 231.631.7918.