Mouse Clix

By: Hobie Lunin

Recycling Computers and other Cyber News

Dear Readers: There of those of you who know that I am a computer instructor; however, many do not know that this is volunteer work. Five years ago when I retired, I decided to be a volunteer. After watching some seniors helping at the hospital, I thought I would like something a little more challenging, so I offered my services free as a computer instructor. In fact, at that time, I only had a year’s experience, but it appeared to me to be more than most other people had. The first taker was the Falls Township Senior Center where I have been teaching for three years.

After listening to people tell me that they did not learn much from large group classes, I wondered why. The answer was always that the class only could go as fast as the slowest student, and there was a wide range of ability to comprehend the programs as well as coordination difficulties with the mouse. Many people found it was wasting a good deal of their class time. I, therefore, concluded that one-to-one instruction was the best way to go. I recently added a second computer. I use it when there is a couple that seems to have the same skills, and it won’t be critical if there is a slight difference in learning speed. I have not kept an exact count; however, I estimate that I have taught several hundred. Some people decide after several lessons that they do not have the interest. And there are those who have become very skilled and even teach others. A good case in point is George Robinson, whose article appears opposite this one.

Well, why am I telling you all this? I have developed a few programs that may be of interest to the larger community. The first one is fairly new and requires a little help from the outside world, so to speak. I am attempting to recycle unwanted computers and monitors such that I can provide them to seniors at only the cost of refurbishing or updating. All computers provided this way are equipped to go on line, to be able to receive photos via e-mail, and have a good word processor and spread sheet for the new owner’s use. At present I am only providing these to members of the Falls Township Senior Center, and the money earned is being used to provide upgrades for more computers. This is, and will be, strictly non-profit!

We need donations of used equipment for us to upgrade. I do some of this work myself and also use local technicians. The need is for computers with Pentium Chips and a CD-ROM or room to put one. If it does not have a modem we will install one. Software that came with the computer will be great to have, especially the recovery disk. It is also good if it has a sound card, but that is not necessary. When in doubt, just donate it and we will decide what is usable.

We also need monitors. Any size is acceptable, provided they work. We will provide a small monitor with the updated computer, when available, which will get the purchaser up and running until he decides to buy a new one. Normally, when people see how the quality of the picture has improved, they get interested in a newer monitor. These can be purchased at retail stores locally.

It is not my intention to cut into any businesses in the neighborhood, but just as there is a market for used cars, there should be one for used computers. For people who want nothing more than to send e-mail to their children and grandchildren and play games such as solitaire, this is a perfect solution.

If you are interested in donating any unwanted equipment or software, please bring it to the Falls Township Senior Center at 282 Trenton Road (at Oxford Valley Road) in Fairless Hills. Hours are 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Monday to Friday. The telephone number there is 215-547-6563. Please leave a message for me, and I will call you back. We will make a pickup if it is not convenient for you to move the equipment.

Although at this time it is not planned to provide these computers to the community at large, I think it would be appropriate to determine whether other Senior Centers in this part of the county would like to participate with us in this endeavor.

Another program that I have developed is “PC2GO.” This is a service for seniors who are shut-ins in the nearby neighborhoods. The arrangements are made through the Senior Center office for those people who cannot leave their home and who wish to learn to use a computer. If they do not have one, I have outfitted a computer and monitor with handles and a portable table to take to the house. What is required is a grounded outlet, 2 kitchen chairs and a nearby telephone outlet, if the student wishes to go on-line. The same telephone number above can be used to call the Senior Center to schedule an appointment. Requirements are membership ($8 per year) and a one-time registration fee ($5). This last fee is good for unlimited lessons and goes to pay for our Internet Service Provider and for other materials that are provided to students.

You may contact me at my e-mail address shown below for further information on both of these programs.

I would appreciate it if you, my readers, would clip this article and send or give it to anyone who may be helped or can help us with either or both of these ongoing programs.

Hobie Lunin is a Computer Instructor and Consultant, and can be reached at hlunin@email.com. Previous articles may be seen at http://mouseclix.tripod.com