BELMONT, MASS. -- Among courses like chair yoga and opportunities to meet with state representatives, 10 senior citizens in Belmont each year can take a hands-on, introductory computer course and go home with a used computer that’s about five years old.
Dave Petto, the IT director for the town, said Belmont replaces its employees computers on a five-year cycle. His department wipes desktop computer hard drives and then installs basic, free Microsoft utilities and uses them as teaching tools. Belmont donates all of its old desktop computers to children in need as well as seniors.
The seniors’ course has had students as young as 62 and as senior as 96, though the average of the students is about 80.
The biggest thing is to get rid of their fear,” Petto said.
For most people over age 60, computers are not second nature, he added. To move them passed any apprehension, Petto follows a scientific teaching approach with his senior pupils. Ten students begin the course by taking their computers apart, learning the major components, and putting them back together. The process helps the students learn how to talk about computers, he said.
Once that happens, turning the computer on and using it does not seem so intimidating. Petto then teaches the students the basics, such as:
- How to get an Internet connection and go on the Internet
- How to create an email account
- How to Skype
- How to save and edit photos
- How to use the basic Microsoft applications installed
- How to use Belmont’s website to access services and get information
- How to recycle the computer when they upgrade
Petto said Belmont’s IT department takes the hard drives back, and the town has an ewaste collection program. As part of the course, they actually review the recycling section of the city’s website. So, the senior course is not just a way for the town to extend the useful life of its computer equipment, but a way to educate the public about ewaste.
Course Description: Absolute Beginners Computer Workshop
Intimidated by computer classes because you think your questions will be considered silly? This class is specifically for the person who knows nothing about computers but wants to learn. Learn what makes up a computer, how it works and what you can do with it. When the class is finished, you will be given your computer TO KEEP!
The course cost is $50, which is donated to the local senior center, for 12 sessions.
