Computer Basics Download

[scorpio2u]

Hey guys, Mom is trying to get computer literate. Where can I get free software download teaching her how to use the computer. She wants to learn at her own pace. Please help with this.

[strollin]

What OS is she using? For instance, if Windows then you will want to point her to tutorials regarding Windows and even find tutorials specific to the version of Windows such as Vista, XP or Win 7. Try a google search for tutorials for her particular OS.

Games like Solitaire were originally included with Windows to help people get used to using the mouse so that's also a good place for her to start.

[David M]

How basic? Has she used a computer at all before?

It basically comes down to learning the operating system and learning the applications. Microsoft has tutorials and many applications have some sort of basic learning tutorial, FAQ's or a help section. Some applications still have actual humans you can talk to.

It may help to sit down with her for an hour or two and show her the very basics. I'm sure she would appreciate that rather than her feeling like she is completely on her own. For newbies computers are pretty intimidating things and a little hand holding at first goes a long way.