The Computer Place - Course Descriptions

Types Of Classes:
Getting Started - Maintenance - Macintosh - Windows -
Office Applications - Financial Applications -
Graphics and Publishing - Internet - Websites

Getting Started
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Basic Computer Literacy
If you don't know RAM from ROM, the difference between storage and memory, or what mice have to do with computers, this is the course for you. This class works best if we concentrate on only one platform, either Mac or PC. If you're deciding which to buy, consider taking both classes in order to make an informed decision.
Mac or PC (Separate class times). No prerequisites.
One two-hour session.

Maintaining Your Computer
Maintaining your computer inside and out is the subject of this course. Learn to use system utilities to improve performance and enhance security, and to plan regular backups and deal with power outages in order to protect your critical files.
Mac or PC. No prerequisites.
One two-hour session.

Macintosh
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Introduction to Macintosh
This course will provide an overview of the Macintosh operating system (OS). Topics will include organizing your files & folders, setting up your desktop, using the Finder to open & switch between programs and the basics of the System Folder.
Mac only. No prerequisites.
Two two-hour sessions.

Introduction to AppleWorks I & II
AppleWorks is an integrated productivity package which includes word processing, spreadsheet, database, painting, graphics, and Internet access, and comes installed on many new Apple systems. Part I will deal with word processing only and teach how to create, save, edit, format, proof & print a document. Part II will overview the spreadsheet, database, painting & drawing portions of the program.
Mac only. No prerequisites; Intro to Macintosh recommended.
Two two-hour sessions.

Windows
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Introduction to Microsoft Windows
This course will teach you to move around comfortably within Windows XP, to use the pull-down menus, to customize your screen, and to organize files using Windows Explorer.
PC only. No prerequisites.
Two two-hour sessions.

Advanced Microsoft Windows
This course will cover adding new Windows components, installing and uninstalling programs, checking system performance, customizing the look and feel of your desktop and program menus, and more.
PC only. Prerequisite: Intro to Windows.
Two two-hour sessions.

Windows Networking
Many homes and small offices share data, DSL connections and resources by networking their computers. This course will teach you how to set-up, monitor, and correct problems in a small windows network.
PC only. Prerequisite: Intro to Windows.
One two-hour session.

Office Applications
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Introduction to Microsoft Word
Microsoft Word is the world's most popular word processing program. In this course you will learn to create, save, edit, format, proof, & print a document.
Mac or PC. Prerequisite: Intro to Windows.
Two two-hour sessions.

Intermediate Microsoft Word
The intermediate course will focus on advanced document formatting, including headers & footers, bullets & numbering, tabs & indents, tables, and multiple columns.
Mac or PC. Prerequisites: Intro to Windows & Intro to Word.
Two two-hour sessions.

Advanced Microsoft Word
For frequent and/or long term users of Word, this course will cover tables, graphics, styles, templates, mail merge, and other advanced functions.
Mac or PC. Prerequisites: Intermediate Word.
Two two-hour sessions.

Introduction to Microsoft Excel
Spreadsheets are invaluable tools for home & business. In this course you will learn to create, save, edit, format, and print a spreadsheet, and the most efficient ways to perform common functions.
Mac or PC. Prerequisite: Intro to Windows.
Two two-hour sessions.

Intermediate Microsoft Excel
Building on the introductory course, you will learn common database functions like searching, sorting and filtering, then add charting (plotting) and document formatting.
Mac or PC. Prerequisites: Intro to Windows & Intro to Excel.
Two two-hour sessions.

Advanced Microsoft Excel
Continuing from the intermediate course, you will learn more about formulas, macros, inserting linked objects and formatting data tables automatically.
Mac or PC. Prerequisites: Intermediate Excel.
Two two-hour sessions.

Intro to Microsoft Access
Access is Microsoft's database manager. This course will cover database concepts, how they are applied in Access, and how to manage Access databases
PC only. Prerequisites: Intro to Windows.
Two two-hour sessions.

Financial Applications
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Introduction to QuickBooks
This business management system includes accounts, invoicing, receivables, payables, inventory, & payroll. This course will lead new users through a review of accounting basics, setting up a company, using bank accounts, invoicing & receivables, paying bills & generating reports.
Mac or PC. No prerequisites, Intro to Windows or Mac preferred.
Two two-hour sessions.

QuickBooks Payroll
QuickBooks includes a complete payroll module, from paychecks to W-2's. This course covers how to set-up payroll for the first time, including state taxes and other deductions, and to use it on an ongoing basis to generate pay-checks, pay liabilities, and complete quarterly and annual reports.
Mac or PC.
One three-hour session.

QuickBooks Pro
QuickBooks Pro, designed specially for contractors, includes all that regular QuickBooks includes, plus: tracking employee hours by job and directly transferring hours to paychecks; estimating; progress invoicing and project reporting. This course covers only the special features of QuickBooks Pro, and assumes knowledge of features common to QuickBooks.
Mac or PC. Prerequisites: Intro to QuickBooks.
One two-hour session.

Graphics and Publishing
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Introduction to Photoshop & Photoshop Elements
This course will explore photo editing with Adobe Photoshop & Photoshop Elements. We’ll learn to crop, resize, "retouch", paint colors, correct color, enhance or apply effects, and much more. By the end of this workshop, even a novice should be able to create "picture perfect" images, whether for publication or website application. Bring a picture or two, and be prepared to do a little "homework."
Mac or PC. No prerequisites, Intro to Windows or Mac preferred.
Two two-hour sessions.

Microsoft Publisher
Microsoft Publisher includes everything you need to create effective publications, ad layouts, business forms, certificates, greeting cards even websites! With clip art, photo images, borders, and design templates, anyone can be their own graphic designer. We'll learn how to use templates as well as how to layout publications from scratch, then create a publication such as an ad or flyer.
PC only. No prerequisites, Intro to Windows preferred.
Two two-hour sessions.

Introduction to Adobe PageMaker
PageMaker is one of the most powerful desktop publishing tools available. It can be used to produce newsletters, brochures, business stationery, ad layouts, and even books. This course will include creating & editing files, importing text from other software, and importing, placing & sizing graphics.
PC only. No prerequisites.
Two two-hour sessions.

Microsoft PowerPoint
PowerPoint is a presentation graphics program. In this class, using PowerPoint, you will learn how to present your business and ideas in the most professional manner, using slides and transparencies. On the personal side, create a slide show of your digital images, with music paying in the background.
Mac or PC. Prerequisites: Intro to Windows or Mac.
One two-hour session.

Digital to Print
You have the digital camera, you bought the fancy paper...now what? In this class we'll show you how to upload, organize, backup all those precious photos. Create personalized projects, like calendars, mouse pads or T-shirts.
Mac or PC. No prerequisites.
One three-hour session.

Internet
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Using the Internet
This two-session class will cover all you need to begin to understand, use, and enjoy the internet. In it we will explain what the internet is, how it works, and how you hook-up. We will explain the World Wide Web, introduce browsers & search engines, and teach you to use them. We will also cover how to get, or "download," things from the internet, such as pictures, drivers, and programs. You'll learn how to download safely, where to put your downloads, how to decompress, and how to use your downloads.
Mac or PC. No prerequisites, Intro to Windows or Mac preferred.
Two, two-hour sessions.

Using Email
Everybody wants email! This course will cover choices of programs, composing & sending mail, and using address books. We'll also teach you how to send documents, pictures, and other items over the "Net," including formatting files to send and decoding files on receipt.
Mac or PC. No prerequisites; Using the Internet, preferred.
One two-hour session.

Websites
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Website Workshop
This will be a hands-on workshop in which participants use Front Page to create a website with the assistance of the instructor. Links, use of graphics, the effect of different browsers, secure transactions, and how to advertise your website will all be considered.
Mac or PC. Prerequisites: Intro to the Internet or Surfing the Net, or permission of the instructor.
Two two-hour sessions.

Maintaining Websites
Whether you develop your own website or have it done for you, most websites require periodic updates & maintenance. This course will cover the basics, with consideration of languages, timeliness, and graphics.
Mac or PC. No prerequisites

Advertising Websites
Advertising with websites is a dynamic process. This course will cover the process of registering with search engines, use of meta tags, the value of links, and how to position your website for maximum advertising value.
Mac or PC. No prerequisites

¨ Microsoft, Microsoft Windows, Works, Word, Excel, Access, Office, Outlook, Publisher, PowerPoint & PhotoEditor are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corp. QuickBooks, QuickBooks Pro, Quicken & TurboTax are registered trademarks of Intuit Inc. Macintosh & AppleWorks are registered trademarks of Apple Computer, Inc. PhotoShop, Photoshop Elements, and PageMaker are registered trademarks of Adobe Systems Incorporated.