For many older adults modern technology is confusing. Not so with the younger generation, however. This past week two students from Mrs. Nelson’s class were helping Betsy Warren figure out how to operate one of the computers at the Cook County Senior Center. Wearing the red coat is Elaina Deschampe and next to her is Makenzie Morrison. Staff photo/Brian Larsen
Tap, tap, tap.
Stare and blink. Stop and think.
Nothing.
Tap, tap, tap. Tap tap, tap!
Stare and blink. Stare and blink. Stare and think, think, think!
Still nothing.
“My computer screen won’t turn on, and I don’t know what to do,” said the somewhat exasperated older lady to the two young ladies who were there to help her.
A minute later, the problem was solved and the unnecessary tapping ended. Then it was on to the next question. And there were lots of questions.
The Cook County Senior Center, now known as the “Hub,” was a hub of activity last Monday, February 24, with an excellent turnout of mostly older residents getting assistance and questions answered about their computers, laptops, and cell phones.
Students from Mrs. Nelson’s Study Skills classroom at I.S.D. 166 joined forces with the Boreal Community Media Technology Intern to offer a walk-in technical support clinic.
Mrs. Nelson’s students on hand to help were Erica Tate, Lynicia Lightfeather, Makenzie Morrison, and Elaina Deschampe.
Greg Peroutka, a student intern that works with CCHS Technology Director Lisa Bauer, was also there with Ms. Bauer to lend assistance.
The clinic lasted from1-3 p.m. and was free to the public.
Community members came armed with their electronic devices. Some came empty-handed but had questions about the confounding computers at the Hub. When they were done getting their questions answered, the computers at the Hub weren’t so confounding!
For those who were really curious, there was also a Facebook and Google search demonstration.
The students and their patient smiling young teachers got along famously and had a good time.
This technology session was done in collaboration between Boreal Community Media, Cook County Schools, and the Cook County Senior Center.
The next session is scheduled for March 30 from 1-3 p.m. If you have any questions about your technical devices, make sure to attend. You will meet some great kids and get a chance to learn from them.
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