Explorers SIG
Meeting Details
- Meets - The 3rd Thursday of each month at 3:30 PM
- Topics - See Programs schedule
- Format - Short presentation followed by demonstration and discussion
- Founder - Tom Thiel
- Leaders - Di Binder
Thesis
- Enabling members at the beginning and higher levels of computer proficiency, to accomplish computer projects that include multiple file types and applications, and to help members to remove their computing roadblocks.
Targeted Audience
- Members with somewhat limited skills in applying their computer to useful applications are the prime candidates for the LSCS Explorers but all LSCS members are welcome.
Why Named Explorers?
- We named it the "LSCS Explorer's" because we intend to explore all aspects of searching through or into the global sphere of using computers to achieve a project.
Background lies in Member Survey Replies
- "There is a need for a program effort, probably independent from our ongoing programs, for something much more elementary than what we do now."
- "Here could be discussed question and answer session and program for the person who has some knowledge, but isn’t sure if they have the right equipment or knowledge to accomplish different projects."
- "A place to review what is on [my] computer in software, etc., and to receive suggestions on how to enhance the capabilities without spending a fortune and then maybe going in the wrong direction or duplicating what is already on their machine."
- "Most of the material that is presented at your regular sessions is way over my head."
So Exactly What is the "Explorers?"
- It is a smaller group where we can work in an open discussion environment where each participant may fully enter into the discussions.
- We will try to not be "Way over your head" but that is a relevant sort of thing so if you do not understand something - ask.
- If you have something you wish to be specifically addressed - ask for
it.
- We will focus on using your computer to accomplish useful projects and activities.
- For the most part we will employ computer applications like: MS Word, MS Excel, etc. If someone wishes to utilize freeware programs to accomplish this then please volunteer to lead a session on that.
Where Can I Go to Learn More?
- Our first recommendation is to utilize the Society's Lending Library Program. (A list of available topics is published in each month’s NewsBytes.)
- Our next one is to go to the Internet. But where should you go? Some time ago member Etta Clark compiled a list of the sources she has used to become computer proficient. See Etta's Newbie Recommendations in the Presentations section.
- (2007-01-18c EttaClarks Newbie Recommendations.pdf)
Past programs have included:
- "Managing Files and Folders with Windows Explorer"
- Exploring "The Computer Project," using the NewsBytes as the project.
- "The Lincoln Project," an illustrated biography of President Lincoln from Web with Google Text and Image searching, MS Word with both Paste Regular and Paste Special.
- Writing files and folders to a CD-ROM directly with Win XP; multiple burn sessions were shown; and similar CD burning was done with Nero BurningROM.
- Adobe Acrobat, Adobe Reader, and PDF files.
- Google, People Searching and use of other Web search engines and techniques.
- How to Use System Restore.
- Email Basics and Etiquette.
The presentations, links, and handouts, when available, may be downloaded from the presentations page after the presentation.
The handouts from this SIG are available for members only.
If you are a member, please Login.
If you are not a member and would like to become one, click here.