Strangers in a Strange Land …
New users to technology feel like strangers in a strange land. Of course, most people think I am talking about people over the age of 30. Not so; even young people who have taught themselves how to play games, use software, text messages, etc., are not really learning how the computer communicates; only how to get results. I see it as rote learning instead of knowledge gathering – “Ou est le toilette?” (where is the toilet?) – memorizing this phrase lets you ask the question, but will you understand the answer?
As a computer trainer, I sometimes forget that computer terminology can be perceived as a foreign language to new users. And as a translator, it is important that how I communicate this language to my students will determine their learning how they can communicate with their computer.
This communication between person and computer can be delicate and therefore, needs to be taught in relative terms. One successful tool I have used is equating computer components to the human body: CPU = brain, motherboard = human circulatory and nervous system, peripherals = silverware and hand tools, and temporary file storage = stomach. (A stretch, I know, but it works.)
Practical, easy, open communications? oui…
