Computer Tech Tips
With all the hype of Angry Birds, Facebook’s Words with Friends, and other unwanted games on your computer, it is sometimes hard to imagine that we can actually get an education using our computers. Many people are familiar with membership sites such as Lynda.com and Adobe.com. Then of course, the Universities providing online educations, such as Illinois Central College classes or online degrees from the University of Phoenix, but these can tend to be expensive.
To get a degree you must still go to a University but if you just wanted to take a class or learn a new language there are other options available. How about a free education online? It’s true. Many websites are providing lectures and course materials free of charge to anyone who would like to sharpen their skills.
Textbook Revolution (http://www.textbookrevolution.org) is a free website run by students who provide a catalog of free textbooks and materials, at no cost. It is a very basic website with a fantastic search function. Everything from Access 2003 to World History can be found here.
Coursera (https://www.coursera.org/) has a seemingly endless supply of classes one could take online. I signed up for the Introduction to Sociology at Princeton University. Before joining the classes, you are provided with information about the class, instructor and the class format. Most of the time, these classes are given by a professor at a large university. What a great way to get familiar with a topic or take a refresher course.
The two websites above were loaded with information and coursework. Most computers can handle the technology needed to “attend” these classes. Basically a pc and a set of computer speakers is all you need. Most of the technology, such as video streams and Blackboards are given on the education website’s side. You may need a “plug-in” to view some of the options or coursework, but they are provided by the website for free and are safe to install.
If you don’t have time to sit in front of your computer to get smarter, iTunes (itunes.com) has a variety of podcasts that you can download and listen at your convenience. I love listening to them in the car during road trips. My friend, on the other hand, listens to podcasts while she exercises on the walking trails.
However you decide to learn, exercise your brain with these free options.