Jun
21
Permutations
June 21, 2006 | | Leave a Comment
One of the interesting twists in my life was discovering I enjoyed using a computer. Most of what I know comes from trial and error. This is only my third technology course since 1998. But all has not been wonderful in Digi-land. My first experience with a computer made me want to scream.
In the spring of 1984 I sat down at an Apple IIe computer to type an English exam. When I finished typing the exam, I sat staring at the screen in an effort to figure out how to save my work. Finally, I typed the word “save” and turned off the computer. Feeling uncomfortable, I immediately decided to check my work to be sure I had saved it properly. Imagine my chagrin when I turned the machine on and saw a blank screen with a blinking green cursor. I did not know I had to use a formatted floppy disk to save anything.
I went home, pulled out my manual typewriter and spent the next few hours re-typing my exam.
When the principal heard of my computer faux paus (I had shared my problem with the computer lab teacher), he graciously allowed me to borrow an Apple IIe and some word processing software (AppleWriter) for the summer.
When I returned in the fall, I was ready to purchase an Apple for myself. My love affair with technology had begun.
I even had an opportunity a few years ago to teach a computer class at a city college in my home town.
I am amazed that as a person who embraces liberal arts, I would become a “gear head.” In 1998, I took certification courses to become a Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer. While I did not complete the grueling series of courses, I did manage to learn a thing or two about software needed to run computer networks.
I continue to learn everything I can about computer technology. I want to help others while I help myself to become more proficient at using this wonderful tool in all its permutations.
AEP
