Home Computer Talk

Occasionally Mr. JM and I will wander down to the local pub and have a couple of drinks. We go there mainly to say hello to our friend Cyril, who is at the pub every day but Sunday and days he has family commitments. Cyril is always good for a laugh and good conversation, but there is one thing he resists above all else…

Technology.

Though Mr. JM and I have been telling him all about how technology can benefit him, even just by having a mobile phone, he refuses to mess with ‘that nonsense’. I even brought in my laptop to the pub last Friday and, while impressed, he refused Mr. JM’s offer to get him a laptop. For free.

I’m not sure if you know anyone technology-resistant who would go so far as to refuse a free laptop, but I’m sure you know at least one person who isn’t exactly ‘technology inclined’. My parents are the same. I’m not sure if they have even managed to figure out how to turn a computer on yet.

So how do you introduce technology to someone who isn’t exactly eager for instruction? Mr. JM says there is a Killer App for everyone – he calls it the thing that gets the ‘Oh Fuck!’ reaction when they first see it in action. I don’t think Cyril likes to swear. 

Here are a few dos and don’ts for introducing technology to those you love:

*DO let them catch you using your laptop, etc. It’s always a bit better if they get to approach you.

*DON’T overwhelm them with all the bells and whistles, even if they are pretty cool. (the bells and whistles, that is. )

*DO let them do their own exploring and question asking.

*DON’T make them feel bad about what they don’t know.

*DO introduce basic things first like listening to music and solitaire.

*DON’T forget to back up all your data just in case.

*DO try to find out what interests them and show them how computers (or other technology) can help them with their are interests. Your interests may not be the same as theirs.

Most of all, have fun. Embrace the teacher inside and remember patience so you can both enjoy the introduction.