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Self Organizing - Computer Software Tutor

Self Organizing - Computer Software Tutor

Overview
Computer literacy is a growing necessity in a professional environment.  Microsoft Office is one of the most commonly used applications to deliver professional documents such as résumés, letters, reports, and presentations.  Too often individuals miss out on job opportunities because they lack the basic knowledge of how to use the applications offered in Microsoft Office.  This volunteer opportunity will provide an opportunity for individuals to learn the basics of the application to be more marketable in the workplace.

Supporting Organizations

  • Schools
  • Career centers
  • Community centers
  • Faith-based organizations (e.g., church, synagogue, temple)
  • YMCA, 4-H, Boys & Girls Clubs, or other youth-serving organizations

Materials

  • Computer(s)
  • Projector (if working with a group)

Instructions

  • Identify locations where you can teach people the basic skills necessary to operate Microsoft Word, Excel or PowerPoint.
  • How to get people to attend:
    • Online Invitations – create an evite and send to local nonprofits, neighborhood planning associations, neighborhood associations, Community Affairs representative of corporations in your area, colleges and faith-based organizations.  You may want to give a courtesy call to the businesses and organizations to obtain the best e-mail address.
    • Tangible Invitations – make the invitations and mail or distribute to the businesses and organizations listed above.
    • Be sure to include the following information in your invitation:
      • Brief description of purpose of this project
      • Your name, phone number and e-mail address or social media information (e.g., FB, Twitter, etc.)
      • Date/Time
      • Location
      • State that the course is FREE!
      • Quote of inspiration about the power of knowledge
  • Develop an agenda for one of the applications. This should be a short (90 minutes or less) lesson that includes basic information. You may choose to help participants work through free online training offered at http://office.microsoft.com/en-us/powerpoint/HA011465331033.aspx.
  • Tutor one person or lead a class on one of the applications. To make it more meaningful for the learner, demonstrate the application by helping them create a formal letter, résumé, presentation, spreadsheet, etc.

Reflection
After your volunteer project, it is important to reflect on the experience – to think about what you did, what you learned from it and the impact it had. Here are some suggested activities:

  • Tell your family and friends about something you learned and if/how you will continue to help others.
  • Draw a picture, write a poem or create a jingle about the service activity.
  • Write about your experience on your blog, FaceBook or Twitter.
  • Write a letter to the editor to discuss your experience and encourage others to serve.
  • If you’re working with a group of volunteers to do this project, lead a group discussion with questions such as:
    • Why did you volunteer today?
    • What did you learn about computer literacy, the needs of your community or helping others?
    • What is one thing you will remember most about this service activity?
    • How can you continue to make a difference in our community?