Travis Olson's Guide
to Becoming Comfortable with Technological Tools
Play,
Play, Play!
My biggest
recommendation to anyone who is new to
computers or the Internet is to take the
time to play and explore. Play with the
computer: try left-clicking, right-clicking,
and double-clicking on the various icons
in front of you. See what happens. Open
programs, and see what you can do. Provided
that you don't start deleting, there is
very little you can do to cause problems
that aren't easily fixed. The more you
play, the more comfortable you will become.
The same goes with the Internet. Open your browser, probably
either Netscape Communicator or Microsoft Internet Explorer.
Start clicking on the various buttons and see what happens.
Type different addresses into the address bar. Go to various
search engines and look for information on your favorite hobby.
Play with the sites. Try clicking on the various headings and
links. Try left-clicking on the pictures. Read the menus that
pop up. Keep track of the sites that you like or think will
be useful.
Praise Yourself
Take a moment or two and focus on what you have accomplished.
Keep a journal of the various steps you have learned. Set a
goal for yourself. When you have reached your goal, reward
yourself. Remember that you have already taken a huge step.
Come across an outdated link?
Please visit The Wayback Machine to find what you are looking for.