Learn about UCPL’s Computer classes
Have you received a new computer, smartphone or tablet but need guidance on how to use it? Want to polish your skills with the Microsoft Office suite or Google Docs? Upshur County Public Library now offers computer classes on these topics and more, in either a one-on-one format or classroom style, using the Northstar Digital Literacy software platform, provided by GenerationWV. Northstar has been used nationally for similar literacy programs, most recently in Minnesota. This program has been made possible through a 2025 AARP Community Challenge grant, which providing the funding to get the equipment for this program!
Classes Available
Essential Computer Skills
- Phone Keyboard Basics & Logging In
- Basic Computer Skills – Parts of a computer; how to turn it on; mouse skills & shapes; file management; customization & updates.
- Internet Basics – connecting to the internet; navigating websites; tabs & favorites; searching the internet; internet privacy; online forms & viruses & email scams.
- Using Email – creating an email account; email etiquette; how to send and receive emails; attach files.
- Windows 11 – basic Windows 11 overview; opening programs; managing windows; programs & file extensions; the Start Menu.
- Mac OS – finding and opening programs; managing windows; operating systems; Microsoft programs; file storage; system preferences; app store.
Essential Software Skills
- Microsoft Word – Word orientation; formatting text; bullets & alignment; setting up documents; inserting tables; copy, cut & paste; inserting objects into documents.
- Microsoft Excel – entering data; formatting text; headings; organizing workbooks; analyzing data; formulas; inserting charts; saving & printing.
- Microsoft PowerPoint – PowerPoint orientation; formatting text; pictures & text boxes; editing slides; transitions & animations; saving & printing.
- Google Docs – Google docs orientation; sharing a Google doc; collaborating in a Google doc; formatting text; making lists; inserting tables and images; setting up a Google doc; copy, cut & paste; finalizing a document
Technology in Everyday Life
- Social Media – Social Media platform overview; setting up a Facebook account; adding friends; posting on the timeline; private messaging; privacy settings; managing friends; staying safe; Instagram; Twitter/X.
- Information Literacy – formatting a research question; planning your research; effective internet searching; analyzing search results; evaluating results for bias & reliability; organizing results; using results to make informed decisions.
- Career Search Skills – Making a job search plan; know your job skills; determining your values; researching careers; networking; career search websites; creating a resume; creating a cover letter; the portfolio; professional communication; understanding the hiring process; preparation, practice & follow-up; navigating illegal interview questions; negotiating; tips to be successful at a new job.
- Your Digital Footprint – What is your digital footprint?; browsing history; cookies; managing your online identity; consequences of a digital footprint.
- Accessing Telehealth Appointments – Making an online health portal account; downloading apps; managing appointments; accessing appointments; troubleshooting; managing an account
- Supporting K-12 Distance Learning – Distance Learning models; Getting connected; Distance Learning Platforms; submitting assignments; virtual class meetings; virtual class etiquette; troubleshooting; advocating for your child’s education
How to Register for Classes
If you are just learning how to use a computer, tablet or smart phone, or want further details on available classes, please give us a call at 304-471-0081 for more information.
If you already have an email or want one of the more advanced classes, or would like to go at your own pace for any of the above classes, please use the Northstar Self-Registration link to register for classes.