Computer Club for Seniors
Seniors residing in the Camden local government area are welcome to join the Carrington Computer Club for Seniors which is located in the grounds of the retirement village. The club currently has over 300 members.
In 2002 the Club's efforts were recognised by the NSW Government by way of a Premier's Seniors Achievement Award, one of only 24 for the State. Members are required to pay an initial joining fee of $10.00 and an annual subsription fee of $15.00.
The Club meets on the first Monday of each month in Carrington's Recreation Centre at 1.30 p.m. A guest speaker is present for each monthly meeting, covering subjects relating to Information Technology. Afternoon tea is provided.
The Club has its own computer room in which members receive structured training. The room is also used at specified times for individual activity, or one-on-one training. All computers are equipped with Windows XP and Microsoft Office suite plus other ancillary programmes.
Training programmes have been developed by Club trainers in the following subjects:
- Introduction to Computers
- Word Processing
- Internet and Email
- Digital Photography
- Spreadsheets
- Desktop Publishing
- Train the Trainer (3 hour seminar)
Further training courses are being developed as the need arises. Training courses usually comprise between 6 to 8 weekly sessions, each of 2.5 hours duration, including a 20 minute "cuppa" break. The trainer of each training session is usually assisted by two helpers. The helper's role is to supplement the trainer's presentation with individual tuition, when a learner experiences a difficulty.
Trainers and helpers alike strive to ensure learners have fun and enjoy each training session. Emphasis is placed on giving special assistance to slow learners (as is the nature of many seniors). The Club's philosophy is that it is more important for the learner to learn, than the teacher to teach.
Memers of the Club are asked to make a contribution towards the overall cost of each course they attend regardless of the sessions involved. They may repeat a course for a reduced contribution of $5.
There are no examinations and at the conclusion of each course, the participant receives a certificate acknowledging their completion of that course.