It started with a math problem.  That problem brought on the challenge of more complex math problems.  Humans were performing these complex math problems using various methods.  Then came the abacus:  a simple instrument designed to aid in performing mathematical calculations.  One might say that this is where computer training began:  the first teacher training the first student on the operation of the abacus.

Many years hence, other devices were created to aid in mathematical computations, yet the original ‘computer’ – the abacus – remained.  Through the aid of electronics came the first computer.  This first computer could fill a room.  In fact, there are many from that era in use to this day:  they still fill a room.  The purpose of the first computer was to complete complex mathematical operations in little or no time.

In the beginning, computers were the forte of scientists and mathematicians.  Then they became more prevalent making their way into universities and other higher learning institutions.  At the universities and other higher learning institutions sat students undergoing their first computer training classes.  Students anxiously stood in line after line to sign up for computer training classes:  many were turned away due to over-crowding.

As technology advanced, these super computers began shrinking in size.  In fact, computers can now be found that are smaller than a cornflake: they are properly termed microchips or mini-computers.  Along with the shrinking size of the computer came the shrinking price of a computer.  Eventually, computers became affordable enough for the average Joe to own.  Not only were they small and affordable, they were portable (think laptop).

With all of these computers, somebody needed to know how to use them.  Universities offered computer training courses as well as small colleges and technical colleges.  What was once considered an intellectuals pursuit only, has become commonplace.  High Schools initially offered computer science’s where basic computer programming and computer basics were taught.  The computer then made it’s way into middle schools and on into elementary schools.  It’s come to the point where everyone attending public schooling is exposed to some form or another of computer training.

It’s gotten to the point where young school-aged students began having more experience than the older generation.  In fact, it seemed they were outpacing their elders in at least that one area of expertise.

The older generation began to recognize the need for computer training.  Many were busy raising the younger generation.  This generation found it difficult to take time to attend formal computer training in a classroom environment.  Still others, busied by a full time job faced a similar dilemma.  Computers were in the workplace and the higher paying jobs were going to those with computer knowledge or outright expertise. (more…)

Computer software training is essential in this day and age for anyone who is using a computer for more than just basic functionality such as word processing.  In fact, it is recommended even for such tasks, as often times there are new methods that can be used to improve efficiency during your use of such software.  Unfortunately, without some sort of computer software training, a lot of times these types of ‘shortcuts’ to improved efficiency are never learned.  So, let’s take a few minutes to look at the various types of computer software training available to the computer user today.

One method that is very popular today is the hands on method of computer software training.  While this very popular, there are a couple of different avenues that this particular method can be approached.  One method is to hire a tutor.  While this is probably the most direct and successful method, it can also be the most expensive.  Tutors for computer software training usually charge by the hour, although you will gain one-on-one training and attention from the tutor during your class time together.  Another popular method is to take a community class that may be offered by some group in your area.  Often computer clubs, civic groups, and local schools may offer introductory computer software training that will allow for hands-on learning.  However, these are often followed up by attempting to sell you on another class, book, etc.

Computer software training can also become hands-on when you have a video or other on-screen directions to guide you through the learning process.  One such program that has become very popular over the last few years is the Video Professor.  His program is seen all the time on late night TV infomercials and is now online as well.  Offering introductory computer software training for free, he follows up with a variety of paid sales programs to get the most bang out of his advertising buck.  There is nothing wrong with this, just as long as you know what you are getting into.  This is one of the most appealing methods of computer software training because you can do the training on your terms and on your time, on the exact software subject of your choice.

Probably the most simple, and the most cost effective method of computer software training is the most overlooked today.  With almost each and every computer program that you purchase there are three types of documentation included in your purchase:  the software manual, internal software help programs, and the online help program.  Each of these is a mini computer software training course in and of itself.  First you should read the entire program manual that comes with the software.  This will contain many shortcuts and efficiency aiding devices that are built into the software.  Next, you should take the time to read through all of the topics build into the software help program.  This will be one of the best sources of computer software training for that particular version of software.

Last, but certainly not least, you will find the online support or help most effective in solving those few areas of troubled functioning you are having with the software.  Perhaps there is a tough formatting issue that you are trying to solve.  Oftentimes, availing yourself of the assistance of the online support forums can be the very best computer software training available.  After all, it is from the people who actually wrote the software to begin with.  You can’t get any better computer software training advice than that!

For the average home user, there is probably nothing more important that you could learn about your computer than how to keep it secure.  Computer security training is not just for the professionals anymore.  Now before you get all worked up, we’re not talking about how to keep your door locked and windows fastened shut.  Well, we are in a way.  What we’re talking about is keeping your computer free from threats such as viruses, spyware, adware, and other malware.  Because of the increase in the usage of the Internet, these things have reached an all time high.  Surfing around online without the proper protection and know-how is the equivalent to driving down a dark alley in the wrong part of town at night.  That is why computer security training is a necessity.

So what different types of security threats are out there, and how do you find the right solution?  Let’s examine the two most common threats to your computer, and then look at some computer security training solutions that will help you evaluate your personal risk, and find the solution providers you need.

The first and foremost issue that arises from breached security of a personal computer is the attack from a computer virus.  In order to find a solution to the computer virus problem, you can find computer security training that specializes in virus issues.  There are many software programs out there that will help with this type of issue.  You can do a simple search on one of the major search engines such as Google or Yahoo and search for the term ‘computer virus’.  Top recommended software vendors include McAffee and Symantec.

If you are having a particularly nasty problem that you think might be associated with a virus, you should consider taking your computer to a local computer repair shop.  They may also offer computer security training for the home user.  If so, you can definitely benefit from the hands-on approach.  They will be able to help you one-on-one to understand your software, how it works, as well as how to do the required maintenance and upkeep on your system.

The second issue that comes up a lot in regards to  the need for computer security training is the spyware / adware issue.  While most spyware will not ruin your system, it does tend to slow it down quite a bit.  In addition, spyware frequently passes on information on your Internet surfing habits and tendencies that you may not want others to know about.

A good computer security training program will help you identify the threats to your system, as well as provide recommendations in order to make your system more secure.
Two of the most highly acclaimed services for spyware removal include Ad-Aware from Lavasoft, and Spybot Search & Destroy.  These two software suites will provide the needed software and computer security training needed to rid your system of spyware and adware.  The bottom line is that you need a good security system and an understanding of it in order to protect yourself online.  Be sure and obtain computer security training, it is the smart thing to do!