PROGRAM: COMMUNITY LITERACY - DIGITAL SKILLS

Over the past few years, I have been looking for a computer program to increase my computer skills. After I retired, I happened to see a Bedford-Sackville Learning Network flyer at a community centre. The flyer listed digital learning as one of the skills being offered. As a follow-up, I called BSLN to get more information. I was put in contact with one of their instructors who explained what the Digital Skills program had to offer. My next step was to meet with the instructor and have a conversation about my current skills and skills I could focus on learning. I also wanted to confirm that as a retiree I could still access this program. I was pleased to find out I could take part.

The instructor was very kind and welcoming. I felt very comfortable asking follow up questions about the program. For me this program was exactly what I was looking for. Not only was it digital skills but it was a one-on-one learning environment. The instructor provided tailored lessons that taught me a variety of computer skills. They explained each skill and set up practice exercises to reinforce my learning. These practices were personalized to my interest thus making the new skills more relatable. My sessions also included an online computer tutorial program which covered digital skills and practice opportunities as well as follow-up assessments. As I went through the modules, I could practice as often as I wanted until I felt comfortable with my progress. The instructor would further explain if I needed more information in regards to what I was working on.

I must say my instructor was amazing. I could not have had anyone better or say enough positive things about them. A lot of what I learned was everyday digital/computer skills. As a result, I was gaining more confidence in my own ability to be more self-sufficient and less reliant on others. I still have more I want to learn but for me it has been a big step forward. I would highly recommend this program to anyone who is looking for a way to learn or increase their digital skills. There is so much more for me to learn but having taken this step I feel excited about increasing my skills in this ever-changing digital world. I am planning to continue attending this program in the fall and feel this opportunity is like a gift in life long learning.

-Sharon