Sleeve Notes
It's good to know, if we press a button on a computer it's not going to end the world, but perhaps it will be the beginning of an opportunity.
Potential fear of technology can happen at any age. We probably all know someone who has or is 'avoiding' tech. (Maybe it's you?). There will be many reasons why this fear or reasoning is present for someone.
You are not alone. I have been one of these people too.
Then I asked myself, why am I fearing something I know nothing about?
Embracing technology for me today, means being discerning (what is most useful in my life).
If you enjoy working with tech, help someone else find their enjoyment too, especially if they are worried about things like scamming, for example.
Here are some thoughts, questions and ways to get started from my personal experience.
A bit more mentoring this time than usual!
Side 1 - Who is responsible for a good tech experience?
Ask yourself - What do I need from the tech provider/colleague/friend to give it a go?
Initially, the people producing the technology are responsible for making sure the end user has a good experience, e.g. not assuming if the provider understands the terminology, the user will too. You're more likely to give it a go if it looks like it makes sense.
People can be put off by technology because the people who create it forget to have the end user in mind.
Even if it's technology which is potentially challenging, a good support/'how to' back up system will encourage the user to continue with the tech. It does with me.
A good example of friendly tech?
M&S Cafe - Introducing touch screen ordering.
Their demographic might suggest the customer would find it difficult to use but they have made it appealing, user friendly and the only way to order food and drink!
It's surprising how quickly people get used to using tech when they are hungry!
Seriously though, the ordering system has been created to maximise efficiency and provide an enjoyable experience, which it does.
Side 2 - Where can you get support from?
Ask yourself - Who can help me understand what tech would be helpful for me?
From the people you bought the PC from. They will all have customer support.
YouTube has a wealth of support and people who do the research & work for you.
From family and friends.
From a local computer tutor. (If you are on the Isle of Wight, I know an excellent one!)
Of course, if you have your laptop already, you'll know typing in what you are looking for will usually lead you in the right direction.
Side 3 - What technologies would/could support your lifestyle?
Ask yourself - Now I have some knowledge, what tech will help me get the most out of my life?
A laptop, PC, tablet or smart phone (if you don't have one already) is probably the best place to start, as a gateway to further possibilities.
If you can't afford or don't want to commit to a PC just now, there are a number of options to try one out for free. Here are just a few you may have in your area.
Local library
Employment agency
Electronics store
College or university (Adult learning)
Of course you don't have to buy new tech.
You can get re-conditioned computers/phones etc with guarantees from reputable companies online or on the high street.
Side 4 - What is a reasonable first step for you?
Ask yourself - How do I like to learn?
Consider what will help you to learn most effectively and importantly remember it.
(Visual, audio, written, a mixture of all?)
Consider how you want/don't want to feel after you've had your learning experience and tell the person helping you beforehand.
e.g. not overwhelmed, safe, inspired, excited, enlightened, able to perform your life's functions online etc.
If the support you need appears to not be available from your provider...tell them! They may offer an alternative or you may have one of your own.
The Download
What is technology?
The hope is - progress. Consider how it's all around us, in transport, medicine and shopping for example. The general motivation for tech is to make our lives easier.
By the same token, we all have an opportunity to find technology that fits into our lifestyles and makes things easier.
We will never know how much simpler things can be for us if we don't hang up the 'Luddite' badge once in a while (I'm too old, too set in my ways, like things the way they are etc) and give things a go.
Keep thinking...how can I fear the unknown if I don't know what the unknown actually is??
The irony is, those I am trying to appeal to probably aren't reading this...those who are can always pass this on though!
My Christmas gifts to you
2 weeks to go!
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