Advantages of Computer Training

            Technology advancements have exploded in the world of communications over the past 50 years and many companies, schools and individuals now realize the value and advantages of computer training.  As the world becomes a smaller and more accessible place, knowing how to use a computer to communicate and receive information is invaluable.

            The current population includes people who were born into the radio age.  Almost all homes in the 1930’s contained at least one radio, as compared to only 36% of that same population who had a telephone in their home.  Televisions were few and far between until the late 1950’s, when approximately 80% of homes were equipped with at least one of the bulky, dial operated sets.  Technology was definitely on the rise, but most of the equipment and services in the beginning opened up communications in areas where none had previously existed; deemed as necessary advances.  At this same time, the computer age was coming into its own being; however, early computers were more of the behemoth than the beneficial.  Filling entire rooms, a number of individuals were required to program the computer by exchanging wires and switches that were along the walls of the rooms.  Made of vacuum tubes and wire circuitry, these ancestral machines could perform various mathematical operations but were of little use otherwise in this primitive stage.

            In a little over 50 years, however, a huge transformation has occurred in the computer’s development.  From an entire room of confusing circuitry in the late 1930’s to a portable, slim notebook and from simple mathematical solutions to conversing live with another person across the world, computers have become a vital means of communicating in the world today.  Not only helpful for scientists but also for the school aged child; for businesses and for individuals; for work as well as for fun.  Many applications and functions that were tediously performed by hand previously now are easily accomplished using a computer.  Indeed, more and more uses for the computer are being discovered on a daily basis.  The advantages of computer training are obvious; becoming proficient in their current uses while keeping abreast of new developments.

            Young children are now being raised in homes where at least one computer is present.  Computers are available in classrooms from grades kindergarten throughout college, and the technology comes natural and easy for this new generation.  Baby boomers are not quite as fortunate; the computer age had the effect of sneaking upon them and suddenly being known as a necessary skill to a generation that was unprepared to embrace it.  Luckily, there are numerous opportunities for learning the various applications such as Internet, accounting, word processing, gaming and more that can turn a nervous novice into a skilled keyboard operator.  Classes are available in adult education venues, college courses and even in video format. 

            One of the major advantages of computer training is in job preparation.  Few companies operate without the benefit of some type of computer in today’s business climate, and many have custom software that applies specifically to their industry.  Computers allow companies and their employees to become more productive and knowledgeable.  The technology gives them greater reach to their customer base, offering services and products more efficiently and effectively.  For the employee, it offers them an extension to their capabilities that makes them more valuable in the job market. 

            With the ability to reach across the world and communicate to someone in another country and time zone, computers have become a priceless source of communication.  Those who were raised in a less communicative time technologically speaking need not miss out on this exciting opportunity when so many opportunities for training exist.  After all, technology only continues to reach upward in a world that is becoming ever smaller and more accessible.