Training is carried out in a friendly atmosphere, in structured classes, by experienced trainers and helpers. Many seniors joining the Club are somewhat apprehensive of computers, and we have trainers who are very competent in overcoming new members' initial concerns. Depending on the demand for tuition from our existing members, we are able to start either 20 or 30 new members most terms. All our new members must complete the "Introduction to Computing" course, regardless of their previous experience.
Each term we have up to about 180 members taking classes - and we prepare a Class Schedule with the proposed courses for the next term well in advance so that people can think about, and select their next course. Students are given the opportunity to select their preferred Course for each term, and mostly they are accommodated in their first preference course. Sometimes, if a particular course is very popular, members are asked to take their second preference for that term, but they are then guaranteed a place in their first preference course for the following term.
We do, however, remain flexible, and are prepared to make changes to the published schedule depending on the demand for a specific course.
Our 11 networked computers have the programs we teach individually loaded onto them, and each computer is connected to the Internet with Broadband. The server is used for class demonstrations with our digital projector. Most students benefit from a short demonstration on the large screen before being asked to follow the instructions set out in their notes.
Our Tutors take great care to prepare enticing and impressive looking Course Notes to help inspire the students about what they will be able to do with their own computer later on; and to be kept for future reference.
Students benefit from sharing problems, and listening to questions and answers dealt with during the lesson. Also students are encouraged by being in a group of their peers, and do not feel threatened by being one-on-one with someone whose knowledge seems superior.
As students progress to the next level of skills, they are encouraged to volunteer as helpers for courses they have already completed. This experience of helping to teach others consolidates their own knowledge and encourages friendships and social interaction within the club. It has always been the case that teaching someone else something is a fantastic way to reinforce and improve your own knowledge. Those who are not experts themselves can often better empathise with students lacking in confidence.
The role of the helpers and the benefits of having several helpers in the room cannot be overstated. The primary Tutor must, of necessity, remain focused on keeping the lesson on track and running smoothly. However, it is extremely important to be aware of the comprehension and interest of the students. By observing their body language and responding to possible problems in a variety of ways, the helpers are invaluable.
We find our structured style of tuition works well, because as students progress from course to course they gradually gain skills that can be built on by the tutors of more advanced courses.
Another benefit of this structured program is the way our members meet and mix with up to nine new people each term, plus the tutors and helpers. This also has the advantage of helping the social aspect of our club.
At the Epping Computer Pals Club we also run several other successful activities.
Our Creative Writing Interest Group meets on the first Monday of the month at 10 am. A story is written at home about a topic on which all agree at the previous meeting. Writers are invited to share their story with the group, whose members offer encouragement and advice. Joan Craymer is the co-ordinator of this group.
The Digital Photography Interest Group is hosted by Patricia Beal, and meets on the first Monday of the month at 1 pm. A great deal of interest in Photography has been shown for this group, with many of the members entering photos in the ASCCA Photography Competition.
Our Genealogy Interest Group meets on the third Monday of each month at 10 am, and is co-ordinated by Jean Barringham and Colin Maskill. Due to the enthusiasm created by the many students who have already completed our Genealogy Course, this "detective" group has flourished. The Genealogy Interest Group is not held during school holidays.
The HELP Interest Group meets on the third Monday of the month once each Term at 1 pm, when a tutor and subject of interest arises. These Special Presentations are given by various members of the club, when available. Information will be given to members when these are to take place.
Another very important activity of the Epping Computer Club is the Weekly Trainers' and Helpers' Meeting, held each Friday afternoon. Usually about 20 people meet to discuss problems with equipment or classes, to catch up on any housekeeping issues, and to have afternoon tea and discuss ways we can all keep having fun with our computers at the Epping Creative Centre. This regular meeting has fostered friendships among the tutors and helpers – and we can never have too many friends at any age, can we?
Each month, we have a General Meeting which is attended by about 90 to 100 members. At these meetings we usually have a Guest Speaker on a computer related topic, although sometimes our speakers are from the local community, and speak on topics of general interest. A donation of $1 covers your morning tea.
Digital Camera & Photo Management Class
Stage 2 Computing Class
Image Enhancement Class
A Demonstration at Open Day
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TRAINING & INTERESTS
COMPUTER PALS FOR SENIORS EPPING INC.
A Computer Club for Seniors to Learn & Socialize