Online Learning @ Real Work Real Pay
Online Learning
If you already have Internet access, then you already have a score of Internet training opportunities right at your fingertips. Use the sites listed in this section to start a long-term training program or to get those nagging questions answered.
Internet Service Providers (ISPs) provide the connections that get their customers onto the Internet. Like any good company, most ISPs want to keep their customers happy, and the best way to keep them happy is to keep their connection running glitch-free and to teach them about the Internet. Therefore, many ISPs offer online help worth checking out. Just use the handy links on the Connections Directions page on our web site to link to a local ISPs web site.
Another excellent resource is the HelpWeb site at http://www.imagescape.com/helpweb/. HelpWeb is a user-friendly site that is aimed at getting you started on the Net. This site features a huge amount of general Internet information, and is also a good reference on how to use the Web, FTP, and e-mail basics.
The HelpWeb site offers links to other educational resources as well. One of the more useful links is the University of Albany library link at http://www.albany.edu/library/internet/. This site offers a series of Internet tutorials that are maintained by library staff. Here, users can not only learn Internet basics but also get more advanced training, such as performing Boolean searches, defining frame usage and capturing graphics. There are few graphics at this site which keeps things moving quickly, and the text is laid out so that you can find information on a specific topic right away.
The Learn the Net site at http://www.learnthenet.com/english/index.html offers additional information on Internet basics. Its FAQ link is one of the more useful portions of the site; it features answers to all of those Internet questions you're afraid to ask.
For even more information, check out the Newbie site at http://www.newbie-u.com/. Just looking at this site is a treat, the pictures and graphics are stunning, but its real value is its Internet information. The Newbie site makes learning about the Internet fun. Lessons include interactive tutorials that actually walk you through performing an action on the Web. (The Netscape Navigator & Internet Explorer tutorials were running when I visited the site, but other options are also available.)
Another feature of the Newbie site is Newbie Dome at http://www.candleweb.net/newbie/. This beginner's guide to the Internet claims to have all of the information you need under one roof. While the site glosses over the basics of learning FTP and Usenet groups, it does provide some interesting information regarding web design and Internet communications.
If you're interested in finding ways to make your web site snap then be sure to check out the Center Stage portion of the Newbie site. At Center Stage you can learn how to add those exciting graphics and sounds that will make your home page look like it was designed by a professional.
If you're simply looking for a good reference, check out http://www.faqs.org/faqs. Although this isn't exactly a training or tutorial site, it is a good reference point for getting you where you want to go, whether you want to learn more about your particular Internet software package or just have a general question. The site is basically an archive of FAQs that offer basic answers to your simple and complex questions.
Most Internet search engines also offer their own Internet guides. By simply opening your favorite search engine, like Alta Vista or Lycos, and clicking the Education links, you have instant access to loads of Internet education information. Also, the Help section of your web browser is right at the top of your computer screen when you're online. It can be a great source for answering your questions or at least pointing you in the right direction.
Your favorite computer magazines are also exceptional resources. The following magazines can be found online:
- PC World magazine
- ZiffDavis cyberzine
- Wired magazine
- Twin Cities Internet Guide & Directory
Or elicit the help of Internet-wise friends and family. They may be able to provide one-on-one training for the price of a dinner. And finally, keep turning to the Real Work Real Pay for help. We're here to make your Internet experience a little less challenging.
Internet Education - Introduction (Part 1)
Internet Education - Offline Education (Part 2)
Internet Education - Online Education (Part 3)
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