Computer Literacy One of my former students recently relayed this story about trying to find a job. We'll call her Dawn. Dawn graduated several years ago. She had been a successful model and employment had not been a problem—until recently. When Dawn finally had to start trying to find another type of job, she found in interview after interview that computer literacy (familiarity with a computer and major computer programs) was a prerequisite to employment. Since Dawn had been a bit computer phobic while in college—our school didn't require computer literacy at that time—she managed to get a degree without ever confronting a computer. After months of searching for a job, Dawn had to admit that sidestepping computer literacy hadn't been a good idea. She enrolled in a computer course at an adult vocational school. Ironically, although she had been computer phobic, she took to computers so much that after about a year she opened her own computer-based business. And, no, I'm not making this up! Around every corner in TV stations and production facilities today you'll see desktop and laptop computers. They are on the desk of the receptionist when you enter the building, on the desks of sales and continuity employees, on every desk in the TV newsroom, in editing bays, and even in production control rooms. Every semester I check to see how many of my students are computer literate. Most are, at least to a limited degree; but some reluctantly hold out until they are forced to confront computers in writing classes. Dawn learned this the hard way, but she got the message, and now she's reaping the benefits. What's that's old saying, "a word to the wise...." For more information on computers and the Internet, click here. To Home Page © 2004, All Rights Reserved
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