My First Computer Class

My first class was only half-full (three students). It was nice to start with a smaller group though. Since we had the room, we brought in one of the Ref. Desk staff members, who will later assist in future classes. Also assisting, was the Ref. Dept. Head. Beginning with the basics, the students completed Mouserobics. I had scheduled 30 minutes for this. It took almost 50 minutes. Then I had everybody surf to a website. When we announced they were on the Internet...they were amazed! We showed them the back button, which is important in our catalog interface, then took a break. Total time 1 hour. During the break, one staff member commented that he was surprised that these students didn't even know how to use a mouse when they walked in. He also had initially wondered how I was going to fill the allotted time for the classes. I handed out little certificates of completion--they were quite proud!

Class--part 2: Library Catalog. I had initially scheduled 2 hrs. for this, but we were already running 45 min. behind. (we ultimately finished on time)

Things not anticipated: 1. people not being familiar with the keyboard. Women tended to fare better, as they were more likely to have worked with a typewriter at some point. 2. people not being familiar with the spelling of (for example) an author's name. Difficult to have them try an author keyword search when they're not spelling it correctly.

Highlight of class: Patron placing her first hold!

Student evaluations were very positive. All said they would take additional classes, and that today's class was better than they expected! :)

Staff feedback: recognized some students as library regulars. Wondered how they had been finding books up until now!