COMPUTER LITERACY PROGRAM

Description of the Program

The Computer Literacy Program involves RSVP volunteers providing computer instruction—both for beginners and beyond beginners—to enable seniors to be better able to understand and participate in today’s technological society.  The computer skills are taught in both class and individual settings at Ponca City Senior Center, 319 West Grand.  The class instruction teaches computer skills such as sending and receiving e-mail, web sites, and how to search the internet for information.  There is an introduction to Excel Spreadsheet in the beyond beginner classes. 

RSVP volunteer John Howe also provides individual help with computer problems.  For more information or to set up an appointment for individual computer help, please call the Senior Center at 763-8051.

 Need/Purpose for the Program

There are several reasons that senior citizens need to acquire computer skills.  First, today’s internet allows easy access to a large amount of information that may be essential to seniors—such as medical and financial information, travel information, and employment opportunities.  Another reason for seniors to become computer literate is to enhance communication.  Seniors who learn to send e-mail have an easy and affordable method of communicating and keeping in touch with others, such as family members who live out of state.  Knowledge about the computer can also enhance intergenerational communication between seniors and their grandchildren who are learning computer skills.