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This Week's Topic Teaching Yourself New Software Learning new software is always a challenge. This week we will discuss strategies for teaching yourself application software programs (e.g., word processing, spreadsheet, or graphics programs) without depending on expensive training courses or laboriously reading every line of a manual. This Week's Tips Learn with Software Tutorials (Monday) Take advantage of the tutorials included with most software programs. When installing new software, install the tutorials too. Employ the following strategies when using tutorials: Pace yourself and learn one topic per week. Practice your skills by recreating a printed document that you like, such as a textbook graphic or an advertisement in a magazine. For more learning tips and cues, take a look at the software manufacturer’s Web site. Ask the Department Technician about Software (Tuesday) When learning new software, ask the department media technician for help. Specific questions and issues are probably your best bet. The technician should be able to help you with questions about school or department software, the installation of software onto school or department computers, the availability and use of additional software resources, and classroom technology. Take a Software Class (Wednesday) Consider taking a class (like your students). Many economical choices are available, some of which may suit your schedule. (Check out the handout in the Download Depot, which lists several sites offering online courses or tutorials.) Excellent sources for software classes include community programs, online classes, evening college or community classes, classes at your teaching institution (most schools offer their instructors a discount), and adult education.
Web Resources for Learning Software (Thursday) Software manufacturer Web sites often contain valuable technology tips and documentation. Take advantage of these free resources, particularly when learning advanced topics. These Web sites typically include FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) that address common software problems and questions, a knowledge base, or online database you can query using keywords (similar to a search engine), and manuals that are sometimes available only on the manufacturer’s Web site. Learning From Software Books (Friday) Consider using a book that teaches you the practical aspects of the software program. Here are some tips for evaluating potential software books: For hands-on learning, look at books that divide topics into separate “tutorial” lessons. For book recommendations, read the customer reviews on book Web sites such as amazon.com. Avoid books titled “The Bible of XXX” or “The Programmer’s Guide to XXX.” These books are usually written for experienced users. |
