Hi, All,
I am currently on winter break between quarters in a social sciences doctoral program. Sadly, the long break (over three weeks) is almost over. I had hoped to organize all my virtual in-boxes and electronic files (Word, Excel, Powerpoint) scattered across various directories, and migrate everything from my old computers (Dell and Fujitsu) to my MacBook Pro, which I adopted because my last computer died. I barely made a dent. I need to quickly become tech savvy for my job as a researcher (which involves conducting experiments with human subjects and conducting statistical analysis of data collected) and my impending job as a part-time lab manager. Decades ago, when WordStar was just about the only word processor in existence and the Internet was just a twinkle in some programmer's eye, I worked in tech-related jobs in the military and civilian world but now don't feel adept at using common technology (iPhones, iPads, etc.) I would love to be an early-adopter but am prone to be a late-adopter because I'm afraid to make mistakes causing permanent damage/deletion (e.g. wipe out my electronic address book or thesis). A few of my relatives, including husband, work in IT or engineering, but they are either too far away or too impatient to help me get a grasp of tech issues. Any suggestions on how to become tech-savvy while working at a job 70 or more hours a week and raising two preschool kids? Would it be worthwhile to hire a PC tutor? My university's tech support seems good at what it is meant to do (fix malfunctioning software/hardware), but it doesn't seem geared toward teaching people how to efficiently use their computers.
Thanks for any ideas.
Your question was too technical for my little brain!
However, I do know that the mac stores offer lots of free classes, and you can set up private meetings. You may get some answers this way, but of course you will have to find the time.
I'd hire the tutor. I'm struggling with the new technology myself and it is aggravating.
If you have an opportunity to hire someone to sit and show you the ins and outs and how to put all of your eggs into their respective basket and then find and retrieve them easily... it will be way worth the money and time spent :) Good luck, it sounds like you have an awesome career!
You should see if your university has continuing education classes that focus on the technology help you need. Or sometimes, Universities offer workshops for faculty and staff on how to use specific computer programs that you might be able to take advantage of. If this isn't a possibility I would definitely hire someone. You could probably hire a tech savvy undergrad student for a reasonable amount. Good luck.
