September 2013 Free Computer Training Returns to NUI Galway due to High Demand

Due to demand NUI Galway has announced the re-opening of a computer training initiative, ‘Click and Connect’, aimed at those with little or no experience of using computers, starting Monday, 30 September. Over the last two years NUI Galway has trained over 500 with ‘Click and Connect’ and this year the course is open to beginners and to those from previous classes who might want to refresh their skills.

‘Click and Connect’ will be delivered by the Information Technology Discipline at NUI Galway with the help of student volunteers and this free initiative is funded by the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources.

Experienced tutors will introduce learners to the very basics of computers and teach them computer activities such as: surfing the web, setting up and using email, how to download photographs, how to access Government information on-line and social networking. Classes will be small and will be carried out in a relaxed, informal style.

Professor Gerry Lyons, Dean of the College of Engineering and Informatics, said that there are thousands of people living in Ireland today who have been left behind when it comes to the internet. Referring to the computer training initiative he said: “Older people will particularly benefit, as will unemployed people and disadvantaged groups in the Galway region. These people miss out on opportunities most people take for granted. For example, those not yet on-line cannot send emails, do internet searches for products or information, or conduct Government transactions online.”

NUI Galway has designed training material suitable for beginners, with plenty of support and encouragement from the volunteer tutors. The training provided will be very basic and is intended as practical guidance for people with little or no prior experience of computers and the internet. Classes will be just two hours duration over four consecutive weeks and are a great opportunity to be part of the digital world.

For more information on NUI Galway’s “Click and Connect”, or to register for the classes, contact the Discipline of Information Technology at 087 0571967.

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