Computer

1. Computer Illiteracy in the United
States
By Kameron Williams
Professional Writing

2. 
Computer Illiteracy is becoming more of a problem in
society as technology becomes more integrated in our
everyday life.

In some small towns or other areas that are not as
technologically developed, people are less inclined to get
involved with computers.

In almost every family there is at least one relative who
does not own a computer or even know how to use one.

With most jobs using more and more computers, not
knowing how to email, browse the web, or create
documents can really hinder one's chances of obtaining a
job.

3. 
The literacy rate of the United States is 99%

A questionnaire by Robert Half International asked 100 of the
top executives from both the U.S. and the U.K. how many of
their executives were computer illiterate.

Of the chief officers asked in the U.K., around 51% were
illiterate, and in the U.S., 55%

5. 
To help combat this growing problem, numerous tests have
been created to educate students in both computer literacy
and information literacy.

Tests like the ISST teach students skills like finding
references, using databases for research, evaluating sources
“for accuracy, authority, bias, and relevance; [to] employ an
efficient search strategy for a research paper or speech; and
[to] apply information ethics by citing sources appropriately
and observing copyright.”

Courses in Information Literacy are just as important as
learning Computer Literacy because they involve both
learning the basics of computers, and their skills in research
are heavily looked for in the job market.

6. The ISST

It was created by James Madison University

It was an optional test, but later integrated into courses for
Freshman Seminars. For Seniors, it still remained an
optional test, but it was much more advanced.

Multiple choice format, covering the categories of “basic
reference, database searching, internet skills, [and] ethics.”

Questions would be slightly changed after each attempt by
the same student, to avoid the possibility of memorization
to get the correct answer, pushing for a better understand of
the material.

7. Proposal

To fix this problem, we should develop a similar system as
the ISST, one where Computer Literacy classes are held in a
public place with the needed technology, most preferably in
a library because of their high accessibility for computers
and easily reachable location.

The classes would be open for anyone to join, not just
students, and would be hosted after school hours.

Instead of a multiple choice format, it would have more of a
system based on application. To apply the computer literacy
skills in real time with the lesson plan for a better
understanding.

8. Why Libraries?

Because libraries have become a virtual hotspot in recent
years, offering free internet access and computers.

71% of all libraries (79% of rural libraries) report that they
are the only source of free computer access and Internet in
their communities.

Libraries are ideal for Computer Literacy classes for this
type of accessibility, but also because they're able to hold an
entire class and still have enough material available for
everyone.

9. Conclusion

With society becoming more dependent on technology, many
people who don't understand how to use computers are losing
the opportunity at a solid career.

Computer Literacy courses will educate students in the basics of
computers, and possibly in the field of research, giving them a
number of new skills to help in the job industry.

Courses will be held in libraries, due to their accessibility being
in a reachable distance for smaller communities, the technology
that can be accessed for free, and the space available to teach an
entire class.

My goal is to not only help those less fortunate, but to simply
educate others and give them a skill-set that can not only help
them in the workplace, but in society overall.

10. The End.