Change in computers as a hobbiest... 2854

Still, I look at users taking courses in Word, Excel, or whatever, or struggling to master the many bells and whistles which new software puts in their faces whether they want them or not, and I seriously question whether our lives have really been made easier.

As for technical knowledge, I don't expect users to have intimate knowledge of the innards of their computers. But understanding some of the basics - e.g. the difference between memory and a disk drive - can make it much easier for a user to figure out what's going on.

A good example is flying training. Although student pilots aren't expected to have the knowledge of a licenced aircraft mechanic, they are still taught the fundamentals of how an engine works. Knowing what happens when you pull the carb heat or mixture knobs lets you make informed decisions as to when you should use them - and when you should not. True, the consequences of misusing controls are far more serious when flying than when using computers - most computers, anyway - but I hear enough users grumbling about time lost to crashes or erased files that I feel a bit of knowledge might be worth the effort.

And a good thing, too, since there are now so many new things to worry about. :-)

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