How the IT for Beginners course has helped more than just my digital skills.

Corrine and Stella decided to join our IT for Beginners course at our Canterbury Training Centre. They hoped to improve their digital literacy skills and keep up to date with the latest technologies.

From discovering how AI can help you write an email, to understanding the functions on Microsoft Word, the learners have thrived on the course which has not only helped with their computer confidence but also given them a sense of belonging and community.  

In this blog, we will dive into their stories, read on to find out more.  

Corrinne’s story

Devoted daughter, Corrinne, dedicated years of her life looking after her mother. During this time, she  lost touch with modern technology. Knowing how important it is to keep your brain active and needing a new routine, she signed up to study Functional Skills Maths with EKC Training.

After passing her Functional Skills qualification, her tutor told her about the IT for Beginners course. Wanting to make sure she was able to understand newer technologies and use her laptop; she signed up and is so glad she did. 

The course has given Corinne belief in her technical abilities. “I feel much more confident using a computer now”, commented Corrinne.  

“If something goes wrong, I don’t panic as much, I just try to work it out. I’ve learned that if something disappears, I probably haven’t deleted it and can usually get it back.”  

“My main goal is to be able to use my laptop at home properly. I’m not really into gadgets, I don’t even have a fancy phone, but I do have a camera, and I’d love to be able to transfer my photos onto my laptop instead of printing them all out. 

“I’ve got loads of photo albums, so it would be nice to organise them digitally. I’m not quite there yet but I’m hoping to learn that in the next course, which I’m starting next month.” 

“I hadn’t been in education since I was 16, I’m 63 now, so it was a bit scary coming back at first, but I’ve really enjoyed it. It’s also helped me build confidence and socialise with others, which I wouldn’t normally do.” 

We asked Corrine about her experience at the Centre, she told us: “The tutor is really friendly and helpful, and you can always ask her questions. I’ve genuinely enjoyed learning again.  

“It’s also nice meeting different people, some younger, some from different countries, and learning from each other. I actually enjoyed this more than school. Education used to frighten me, but I’ve stuck with it and ended up getting my qualifications, which I’m really proud of.” 

Corrinne is planning to continue her learning with EKC Training, she is flourishing with us and enjoying the company of her classmates. In the future, she hopes she will understand how to upload her camera photos to her laptop. 

Stella’s story  

Stella decided to join the course after buying a new Apple Mac laptop and not being sure how to use it. She had always used Microsoft Windows laptops in the past and felt like she needed to go back to basics to understand how to use her shiny new device. The course has increased her confidence with her new laptop and fostered a sense of pride and belonging. 

“I didn’t have much confidence when I started and wasn’t sure how the class would be, but it’s been really nice learning with other people. We’re all on the same level and help one another”, commented Stella.  

“Coming back into a classroom was daunting because I didn’t have a good experience at school, and it was emotional stepping back in. But it’s been lovely, I’ve felt welcomed, and it’s really built my confidence. I think your confidence grows when you step out of your comfort zone, and that’s what I’ve done.” 

“I love coming in, meeting people, and having that sense of belonging and purpose. Before I started, I wasn’t sure what it would be like, but it’s been a lot of fun and I’ve really enjoyed it.” 

We asked Stella about what she has learnt about on the course: “we’ve been learning digital safety, home security, and lots of different things. We’ve created leaflets, posters, and crafted emails, and learned about searching the internet.  

“I’ve learned how to print programmes and posters, and I found it really interesting learning about personal and home internet safety. I even understand what AI is and how this can help me!” 

Stella mentioned the inclusive and warm atmosphere in the classroom stating: “everybody’s been lovely. We’ve worked together and helped each other when we didn’t understand things, and we’ve achieved a lot. The tutor has been really good and supportive.” 

Stella plans to put her new skills to good use and set up her new Mac, surfing the internet safely, using secure passwords and maybe even trying out Chat GPT. 

Technology moves very fast, especially nowadays. It is important to give yourself the skills to thrive in this modern world. Join our IT for Beginners course and you’ll be tech savvy before you know it.