Introduction to Computers 1 This eight week course (one day per week, two hours per day) is intended for beginners, and focuses on what a computer is and how to use it. Emphasis will be placed on developing skills in using a computer mouse and keyboard, and learning how to interact with your computer. We will explore the use of a computer for letter writing, for managing financial data, and for maintaining other types of data (mail lists, telephone lists). Use of e-mail and the Internet will be demonstrated. The classes are designed to be enjoyable and user-friendly. Upon successful completion of this class, you will be eligible to attend other more advanced SeniorNet courses.

Introduction to Word Processing PREREQUISITE: Intro 1 Write without frustration. Learn to edit, change formats and type with style. Add headings and footnotes, produce tables and work with graphics, form letters and mailing labels. We suggest you have basic typing skills, an understanding of Microsoft Windows, and a basic knowledge of computers.

Using Windows 98 PREREQUISITE: Intro 1 (Priority will be given to students who have not taken Windows 95 or Windows 98 previously) Using Windows 98 is an eight week course designed to teach the student all about the Microsoft Windows 98 operating system. The student will learn not only how to use the features of Windows 98, but how to modify the operating system to make it easier to do what the student wants to do with the computer. The class explores the new features of Windows 98 such as the new toolbars and single click mouse operation to initiate an action. Also covered in detail is Windows Explorer which is used to manage drives, folders and files. In addition, the student will learn to use the applets (small application programs) that are included with Windows 98, such as, Calculator, Phone Dialer, HyperTerminal, Notepad, Wordpad, Character Map, Backup and other System Tools. There will be one class on the use of Internet Explorer and Outlook Express for Web browsing and sending/receiving E-mail.

Buying a Computer The Buying a Computer class will be conducted in a single two hour session. It is intended to help the student decide what IBM compatible computer to buy to meet their present and future needs. To accomplish this the student will learn what the key hardware items are in the computer and what software is required. The student will then be shown two methods that will help them determine the specific computer to buy. Several handouts will be provided including a glossary of terms and ten tips for buying a computer.

Introduction to Quicken PREREQUISITE: Intro 1 and one other Intermediate course. This class will introduce you to the most popular home finance program of the day. You will learn how to set up and manage checking, credit card, and investment accounts. You will learn how to reconcile your checking account, define transactions, develop a budget including budget categories, and how to make reports as you want them.

America Online PREREQUISITE: Introduction to Computers 1 and Exploring Windows 98. Access to a computer connected to an Internet Service Provider (America On Line recommended). With a computer and a modem you can send and receive messages and information over vast networks of computers tied together by telephone lines. We will explore AOL (America Online) with emphasis on SeniorNet and AOL’s e-mail service and on AOL as an Internet Service Provider. SeniorNet is a special area of AOL which enables you to communicate with other SeniorNet AOL subscribers though chat rooms, bulletin boards and library files. Our Internet focus will be on ways of finding information on the web. Classes will meet one day a week for 8 weeks.

Introduction to Database PREREQUISITE: Intro 1 Database is a record-keeping tool. It will help you keep inventories, membership information, address lists, telephone lists, etc. Use the Database to search and retrieve particular items or to list data alphabetically, chronologically, numerically, etc.

Introduction to Spreadsheets PREREQUISITE: Intro 1 Learn to use the computer for household budgets, investment analysis and other applications where you want to calculate sums, differences, averages, percentages, and other financial or mathematical data.

Genealogy PREREQUISITE: Intro 1 This course explores a topic many seniors place very high on their list of interests: genealogy and how a computer contributes to this pursuit. An example database is included on the student’s diskette to provide a basis for using Ancestral Quest to explain its functions. The students can add to and modify this database, but will be encouraged to create their own genealogical database. Topics covered include exchanging genealogical information between different computer programs, creating a family history document, maintaining several databases, and using multimedia files to enhance the database with pictures and sound.

Graphics & Scanning  PREREQUISITE: Completion of Intro 1 course, two intermediate courses, and proficiency in the use of the mouse. This course features the use of Adobe PhotoDeluxe on the Windows 95 platform. Related topics such as graphic file formats, file compression, and scanning software are discussed. Due to the complexity of Graphics/Scanning and with the availability of only three flatbed scanners some of the lab exercises (e.g. scanning a photo) will require a coach’s assistance and be done in pairs. Most exercises will be done individually. Students must be able to use Windows and to follow written procedures independently.

Introduction to the Internet PREREQUISITE: Introduction to Computers 1and Exploring Windows 98. Introduction to Word Processing highly recommended Access to a computer connected to an Internet Service Provider. With access to a computer, a modem and an Internet Service Provider, you can send and receive e-mail as well as surf the Internet and the World Wide Web. General techniques of using e-mail will be taught. Our expanded coverage of the Internet will allow us to explore many interesting web sites using Microsoft Internet Explorer and Netscape Navigator. We will use search engines with advanced search techniques to find information about investments, travel, sports, weather, food, games, and thousands of other topics. Classes will meet one day a week for 8 weeks.

SeniorNet Learning Center of Plano
Department of Parks, Recreation, and Neighborhood Services
Plano Senior Center
401 West 16th Street
Plano, TX 75075