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Computer basics training that includes free instruction and a free Chromebook is available in East TN.

The class is designed for those with no computer experience, said Dayle Beyer, executive director of ROANEnet, a non-profit dedicated to digital equity and access.

“Our goal is to help everyone in the community become digitally literate,” Beyer said.

The three-hour classes are small—usually about a dozen students – and are held on Tuesday afternoons at the Morrison Hill Church. The classes are paced for adults that may have no prior experience with computers.

 “This is a great opportunity for someone who wants to learn how to use a computer for email, sharing photos and other basic tasks,” Beyer said.

Students are given a Chromebook and shown how to set up an email account and log on to the internet. Information is also provided to the students that will allow them to receive access to the internet at a reduced cost.

Stephanie Chambers said she heard about the class from friends in the community. She said she is considering going back to school to study to be an Emergency Medical Technician and wanted to improve her skills.

She said she found the class very useful.

“The instructor was very patient. He answered all my questions,” Chambers said.

Instructor Paul Jackson said the class is geared for those who have never used a computer. Most students catch on quickly to the basic tasks, he said.

“We have the time to work with each student individually if they need help,” he said.

ROANEnet plans to expand the classes beyond basic computer skills to include instruction in job search skills, digital commerce and business tools including word processing and spreadsheets, Beyer said.

By Hugh Willett

Loudon County residents will be able to take advantage of free basic computer training classes to be held at the Loudon County Senior Center.

The classes, which are geared toward seniors and beginners, are being conducted by ROANEnet, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit based in Harriman. Each student that completes the three-hour computer basics class is given a free Chromebook. 

At a recent class, about a dozen students began their training by setting up an email address for those who didn’t have one. Students with more experience helped those who were first-time computer users.

Loudon resident Paulette Griffin is a regular at the Senior Center. She said she signed up for the class to improve her skills and wants to take the more advanced class. “This is the first class I’ve taken and I’m learning things,” she said. “I’d like to learn how to manage my photographs and put together photo books.”

The students were introduced to the Chromebook and basic functions such as sending an email. Basic security including the use of two-factor authentication was explained to the class. ROANEnet executive director Dale Beyer explained to the class why organizing and saving passwords was important.

ROANEnet is able to conduct the classes and distribute the Chromebooks at no charge through government grants and donations including thousands of Chromebooks donated by local school departments.

“ROANEnet’s mission is to bridge the digital divide by helping to improve digital literacy and access to information, education and healthcare content,” Beyer said.

Visit Roanenet.org website or call the Loudon Senior Center at 865-458-5445 to sign up for upcoming classes.