Keith “The online world really is your oyster.”

59 year old Keith McMillan from Carcroft had had no reason to use a computer. That was until he was encouraged by the Job Centre to learn some computer skills to help him find a job after being unemployed for a number of years due to ill health.

“The computer age had passed me by,’ says Keith. ‘I’d never had a reason to use a computer, therefore I didn’t learn. When the Job Centre suggested I attend some computer courses, I was very anxious and didn’t know what to expect.

“I enrolled on a course, where I was introduced to computer basics via the Learn My Way website. The course was really useful as it started with the basics, like explaining what the mouse and keyboard did and how to create and save documents. I’ve since progressed to more advanced courses and now know how to use the internet and can send emails from my own email address.

“Learn My Way is a fantastic way to learn how to use a computer, as it’s very easy and simple to use, especially as you can work at your own pace. The content is presented in a really clear way that makes it easy to follow and understand. You can also choose to have a voice over that guides you through the course. I liked to use this and listen with headphones on; I would sometimes get frustrated and argue back with the voice over and forgot that everyone else in the room could hear me!

“Since doing the course I understand more and am a lot more confident when using a computer. Previously I had friends who used to talk about things like gigabytes and it seemed like a different language to me. Since doing the courses and using computers, I’ve now sussed out what they are talking about and find that I use computer jargon myself.

“I don’t have a computer or the internet at home, so I regularly come to Woodlands Community Library to access a computer. I’m able to log on to the internet to search for jobs and then apply for them using my new email account. The Digital Friends at the library offer help and assistance when I get stuck, and I continue to learn from their skills and experience. Although I haven’t found a job yet, I use my new skills to support others and pass on my computer knowledge by volunteering at the library twice a week.

“I’d encourage anyone who wants to learn some computer skills to log on the Learn My Way website. You can do this at home, or if you need to access a computer or want some more support, you can visit any of Doncaster’s libraries. Although there were times when I would get frustrated and felt like giving in, I’m glad that I didn’t and that I managed to complete the course, as you can literally find anything on the internet – the online world really is your oyster.”

 

Use the following links for more information, advice and guidance about 'getting online'.

Last updated: 13 January 2021 14:42:18

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