SC RESIDENTS LEARN COMPUTER SKILLS

SCOTT CITY -- The basics of computing weren't skills that Carolyn Keller remembered learning while she was in school.

So Keller decided to enroll in an evening computing and keyboarding class taught at Scott City High School.

"I wanted to go back to learn and not just peck on the keyboard," Keller said.

Eleven people are enrolled in the 10-week course taught by Pat Andrews. The class began Oct. 5.

The basic keyboarding and computing class is the first of its kind offered by the school.

Many adults are afraid of computers and the class tries to make each student more comfortable in front of a machine, Andrews said.

"It's coming back," Keller said. "But I feel like my fingers aren't going where my mind tells them."

Based on the popularity of the first class, another computing class might be offered after the new year, said Principal Fred Graham.

Chuck Goodale decided to take the class so he could practice his typing skills.

"I'm 15 hours away from a computer science degree and I want to brush up on the keyboard," he said.

The class teaches basic typing skills like finger positioning, punctuation and letters.

An advanced computing course is also being offered. It is an eight-hour course taught by Martha Nothdurft.

The class focuses on the Microsoft Works program for IBM computers. About 8 people are enrolled in the class.

Sondra Phillips decided to take the course to learn another word processing program.

"I might get a job someplace that has this (program)," she said. "I know Word Perfect but Windows is fun."

The school district began the classes as a way to answer a need in the community.

"It's a different feeling about teaching," he said. "If the parents take a class, they have a better idea of what their kids experience in school."

Beginning in January, the district also will offer college courses in English and algebra.

The classes are offered in conjunction with Three Rivers Community College in Poplar Bluff and are open to students or high school graduates.

Each class is equivalent to three hours of college credit. Cost for enrollment is $191.

For more information about the evening classes or college course requirements, call 264-2381.