The San Benito County Free Library recently launched a new Tech Tutorial program that offers brief, one-on-one training sessions in multiple areas of technology.
The tutorials include basic computer skills, use of applications like Microsoft Office, setup and use of public email accounts, assistance with downloading eBooks on mobile devices, and use of various social media platforms.
“In our tutoring program, we take adults at all stages of learning from beginners to those with some knowledge and skill,” County Librarian Nora Conte said in an email to the Free Lance. “Some people who take our program are older adults who simply want to communicate with their children through Facebook or email. Others are entering the job market and need to upgrade their word processing skills.”
Tutorials are conducted by various library staff, and can also be offered in Spanish. Currently, tech tutorials only happen on Fridays. However, the library is looking to extend the Tech Tutorial program schedule to other days in the future.
Programming, website construction, and other technical computer skills that require in-depth training aren’t offered. Library staff refers these types of requests to Gavilan College or free online computer training programs through the library.
The Tech Tutorial program is based on the one-on-one tutoring model used in the California State Library’s Adult Literacy Program. Conte said this model has proven successful in motivating adult learners who haven’t done well in traditional classroom environments, and better addresses adult learner’s unique learning styles.
“Our free tech tutorial program allows everyone, including people such as low-income individuals and seniors who might otherwise be hesitant about interacting with these new technologies, an accessible space in which to experiment and learn,” Conte said in an email to the Free Lance. “This training then helps provide community members with a foundation from which they can build their confidence and comfort in using these modern tools that can often be essential for everyday life tasks such as applying for a job or examining reviews of a product or service.”
To request a tutorial, call the San Benito County Free Library at (831) 636-4107 during hours of operation.
