Lesson 1.1: The Practical User: How
Becoming Computer Savvy
Benefits You
The Digital User: How Becoming Computer Savvy Benefits You
Being computer savvy means that you have to understand the capabilities and
limitations of computers, its advantages and risks, knowing when you can fix
computer problems and when you have to call for help.
Among the practical payoffs are these:
You will know how to make better buying decisions. No matter how much
computer prices come down, you will always have to judge quality and
usefulness when buying equipment and software. Computer savvy can help
you identify the parts of a computer system, what they do, and how much they
cost.
You will know how to fix everyday computer problems. Whether it’s
replacing a printer cartridge, obtaining a software upgrade, or pulling photos
from your digital camera or camera cellphone, being computer savvy will give
you the confidence to deal with the continual challenges that arise with
computers–and know when and how to call for help.
You will know how to customize your computer equipment and integrate
it with new products. Different industries are continually developing new
gadgetry and software. A knowledgeable user learns how and when to upgrade
devices and software, and when to start over by buying a new machine.
You will know how to use the internet most effectively. The sea of data on
the internet and other online sources is so vast that finding what is best or what
is a necessity can be a hugely time-consuming activity. Being computer savvy
will show you the most workable ways to approach this problem.
You will know how to protect yourself against online villains. The online
world poses real risks to your time, privacy, finances, and peace of mind–
spammers, hackers, virus senders, identity thieves, and companies and
agencies constructing giant databases of personal profiles. Being computer
savvy aims to make you streetwise about these threats.
You will know what kinds of computer use can advance your career. Even
top executives now use computers, as to people in jobs ranging from police
work to politics, from medicine to music, from retail to recreation. Being
computer savvy will give you ideas about how technology can benefit you in
whatever profession you choose.
