C2: First Encounter

Throughout this workbook, I will provide ideas for learning technology quickly. However, I encourage you to make this process your own. Try out the methods I suggest, then figure out what works for you. Just stay aware—be mindful of your process. If you consciously develop habits for learning technology, you will find that you will be more efficient and effective in approaching technology in the future.

When you first open a new software package, take a minute to look around. Does it have tabs, menus, and/or tools? If it has menus or tabs, take a moment to look at each one. Glance through the items on each tab or menu. When it comes time to find a function, you might just remember where it is. If the program has tools, mouse over any you do not recognize. By “mousing over” I mean to hover over the tool for a moment: a name and possibly even a description should appear. Give yourself just a moment to familiarize yourself with the program.

For instance, if you are opening Microsoft Word for the first time, you should click on each tab. After clicking on a tab, take a minute to mouse over at least a few of the tools that are on each tab. This process will give you an idea of what type of functions tend to fall under each tab.

Remember that you are trying to develop skills and habits that help you learn a technology quickly. As we step through this course, experiment with diverse ways to approach a new technology. Whatever you do, do it consciously so that you can develop effective habits when dealing with new technological experiences.