Basic Windows Learning Software?

[ViolentJ]

Can anyone suggest a home learning package for a semi (bordering on not at all) experienced Windows XP user. Ideally one for Office 2007 as well.

My mothers extreme lack of computer literacy is hindering her work as most of her job is now computer based.

She's used a computer for years now and yet until last night did not know how to empty the recycle bin and says "i don't use that bar thing at the bottom of the screen, it confuses me". Instead of minimising applications and windows, she closes then down and then reopens them. She also runs a screen res of 800x600 on her 19" monitor because she likes to see big icons on her desktop. It doesn't seem to bother her that things disappear off the screen and she has to drag them across to read them :S

So, I'm thinking for Mothers day that I could buy her one of those packages for beginners in the hope it will help and was wondering if anyone could suggest something?

 

[*JimmyJ*]

Just hold her hand and explain what things are, and the correct way to use them if you know. Try youtube they might have some video's on this stuff but its gonna be really boring for her (and maybe you) to watch.

 

[Brasseye]

basic computer classes >?

 

[Don]

A CLAIT course might be useful for her. It should help her use the machine and also some of the applications like Word, Excel and the rest. I think Learn Direct do them...could try evening classes in the local college.

 

[Nigel]

I reckon college night course would be best. Not expensive either. Enrole yourself to go with her so as she'll be happier going as you'll be there.

 

[ViolentJ]

I tried sitting with her years ago and even wrote her some basic instructions but they're long since forgotten and to be honest she did my head in, I'm not cut out to be a teacher lol

She says she hasn't got time for night classes which is why I was thinking of something she can do in her spare time at home. As for enrolling myself with her I think I'd die of boredom and feel like a prat for being there.

 

[ViolentJ]

Got her a couple of books from Amazon - Windows XP Just The Steps for Dummies and Office 2007 for dummies. Even if she doesn't read them then my dad most likely will as he's not much better than she is but at least he tries.

 

[Darren S]

A CLAIT course might be useful for her. It should help her use the machine and also some of the applications like Word, Excel and the rest. I think Learn Direct do them...could try evening classes in the local college.

Good call. It's a shame she says she hasn't got time to do evening classes. Reading books is one thing, but unless you're really interested in the subject matter - it's so easy to switch off and not take anything in.

I sympathise with you, m8. My dad's similar, but his computer skills are like someone has taken a shotgun and fired it at an IT skills board. He's very capable with seemingly technical parts of running a PC (he can easily reformat and rebuild Windows XP on his PC) - yet I'm amazed at his lack of knowledge sometimes in the most basic of basic things.

I think the biggest issue my dad has is that he never reads alerts, warning boxes or general messages that pop up during the running of a PC. He's far too trigger-happy with the Ok and Cancel buttons - lol!

D.