More senior citizens learning how to use computers

With all kinds of information available through technology - mostly computers - it's no wonder nearly all of the computer classes for seniors taught at the Carson City Senior Citizens Center are full.

For about 18 months, computer classes for beginners have been taught in four-week sessions, two days a week, at two hours per class. Classes are coordinated by Frank Furnari, volunteer coordinator for the Carson City Computer Learning Center. Classes are a maximum eight students.

The room at the center is half classroom, half computer lab. The lab is open during the center's operating hours, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday through Friday.

"We have sign-ups at least one month in advance, and they fill quickly," Furnari said.

Cost of a class is $40 per student, which includes a manual and information disk. The fee goes to maintain the computers and purchase software. All of the instructors and coaches are volunteers; there are 13 in all.

"The Internet is the main reason for home computers," Furnari said. "Most of the people taking the class have home computers. Some will take the course before buying a home computer."

The first class is "Introduction to Computers," a basic class for beginners, which includes instruction for using e-mail and the Internet. The second class is "Introduction to Word Processing," for the more seasoned user.

As students sat at their computers Wednesday morning, they surfed Web sites learning how to use search engines.

"Look at all this information available to you," said Melissa Dyer-Cobb, class instructor. "Have fun and grow wise."

Jerry Rasmussen, 69, has taken a computer course prior to this one, but appreciates the slower pace the instructors use.

"It's easier to follow," he said. "I took this class to basically learn more. And I am, little by little."

Volunteer coach Alice Cunningham, 79, took a class four years ago and chose to return to coach. She has been a coach for three-and-a-half years, and said she has found it beneficial for her.

"It reinforces what I've learned," Cunningham said. "I thoroughly enjoy it."

Josephine Wyandt, 71, said the class is going great for her.

"This is my second class," said Josephine Wyandt, 71. "I wanted to learn more about the Internet."

"I'm a late bloomer, and the more I do it the more I like it. Eventually I'll learn it well with enough practice. The Internet is most interesting for me."

The next session of classes is full. However, sign-ups are being taken for future classes. For information, call the senior center at 883-0703, ext. 222.

"We volunteer because we enjoy it," Furnari said. "And we're always looking for people to be volunteers or coaches."

• Contact Rhonda Costa-Landers at rcosta-landers@nevadaappeal.com or 881-1223.

If you go

WHAT: Beginning computer classes for seniors

WHEN: Days, time vary

WHERE: Carson City Senior Citizens Center, 911 Beverly Drive

COST: $40

CALL: 883-0703, ext. 222