> ----------
> From: Brett Lorenzen[SMTP:[EMAIL PROTECTED]]
> Sent: Thursday, August 20, 1998 6:45 AM
> To: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
> Subject: Re: WC:>: Would you install IE 4.0 for them?
>
>
> First, 99% of all computer jobs don't
> require a CS degree and programming skills. They really don't require
> much more in the way of brains than driving a car--it's just that the
> complexities of a car are something you grow up fascinated with (and
> hence by the time you drive one you have a good feel for a number of
> the
> basics), and computers are viewed as foreign. The big skill needs
> we're
> addressing aren't for programmers, it's for basic usage skills--and
> that's were most users hit the proverbial wall. they just don't
> differentiate between programming and using a computer--it's all one
> big
> inaccessible mass to them.
>
*THEY* being colleges & management?
> Maybe it's time for some remedial programs that focus on the basics,
> like double-clicking on an install icon, and teaching people the
> difference between using a computer and being a mechanic. :P
>
It's not "remedial" ... it's basic training. At mega-corps like Boeing,
until the Web, people were **forbidden** to download/install anything on
their machines. This was IS edict.
NOW -- just like self-serve gasoline <g> -- they want everyone to have
computing skills that they've not taught to employees.
MOST people don't want to know how to change their oil ... those of us
who are wrenches are a minority [of course, an elite one <g>] ... but
it's the same with computers.
The OS has to get simpler. Look at VCRs ... they are truly a consumer
item and still have lousy interfaces.
This is a soapbox for good UI/HCI work.
> I'd push the "learn by doing" approach too. Certification in the form
> of sweat is always the best form. The trick, though, seems to be
> convincing people,
>
FUD works here too.
Kathy
BTW, Brett, you have WAY too much time on your hands. ;-)
You haven't posted this regularly in eons!!! Good to have you a regular
again.
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