What is a Computer
Workshop?
Computer Workshops are courses designed to present a maximum amount for information on a specific software program in a brief period of time. Workshops are best for individuals who are trying to brush up on their skills or to take their abilities to the next level in a short period of time.
How do you decide what to offer?
Microsoft is the current leader in software applications both for home and business use. We feel that we can serve the largest number of students by focusing on these high-demand products.
Why so many levels of each program?
By offering various levels within each application, students can enter the sequence at a level commensurate with their expertise. A student should be able to determine their starting place by checking the course outlines on the Schedule page. If you are uncertain, you can attend an orientation session and take a placement test free of charge.
When do classes begin?
We start our weekly sessions at the beginning of each term. However, you can enroll and start anytime between the 1st and 7th (1st and 4th in summer term) week of the term. Since you must complete each class by the end of the term, the earlier you start the more casual the pace you can set and still cover the materials. Set a faster pace and you can finish more than one course in a single term.
Can I get a head start?
Registration usually begins several weeks before the start of the term. Once you are registered, you may arrange for your orientation. So even if the first day of the term is not yet here, you can get a head start by contacting Kathy Logemann.
Where are the Workshops held?
The workshops are held at the CCC Main Campus, Streeter Hall, 19600 S. Molalla Avenue, Oregon City, OR 97045. The Harmony lab will be unavailable until at least Fall of 2004 while repairs are being made on the building. (Map)
Where do I buy my books?
The books used in CCC Workshops are included in the cost of the workshop. Send an e-mail or contact Kathy Logemann by phone, 503-657-6857, Ext 2308 to arrange for your materials to be delivered to your chosen orientation site.
Are orientations only held the first week of the term?
No, orientations are available at the beginning of each lab session held during the first 7 weeks of each term.
Why do I have to attend and orientation?
Even though our self-paced workshops are easy to use, you will get the maximum benefit if you understand the various tools available to you and how to use them. This is most efficiently done at an orientation. Records indicate that those who attend an orientation are significantly more successful in completing the course.
What is the average amount of time to spend per course?
Although this varies greatly from student to student, you should expect to spend at least 12 hours working on the materials and assessments. If you attend one two-hour session per week or spend 2 hours per week on your home or office computer, you will need about 6 weeks. The upper level classes can take longer due to the more difficult concepts.
How can I best learn the material?
We have been offering workshops in this format for a few terms now. Although students have been successful in many different ways, the best approach seems to be a combination of student exploration in conjunction with regular attendance at designated labs. Students who take advantage of one-on-one time with the instructor feel they progress faster with a clearer understanding of the concepts and skills.
What if I mess one of my lab sessions?
One advantage of the self-paced system is the open labs. If you can not attend your normally scheduled lab you can attend any of the others that fit your schedule. Or if you wish to complete your course faster, you can attend more than one lab per week. It is up to you. Attendance at labs is your option. It is simply another resource to help you be successful.
Do I need my own computer?
Unless you plan to do most of you work at home, access to a computer for individual practice is not essential but helpful. As a student of Clackamas Community College your are entitled to use the Streeter Hall Academic Computing lab on the main campus in Oregon City. This lab is open from 7:30 AM to 9 PM on Monday through Thursday, 7:30 AM to 5 PM on Friday and 9 AM to 3 PM on Saturday during Fall, Winter and Spring terms. Summer hours are 7:30 AM to 9 PM Monday -- Thursday. College is closed Friday, Saturday and Sunday during summer term. Tutors are on duty to assist you with your questions.
What if my Microsoft software is a different version?
The new MS-Office 2003 is now available and the changes are not significant to a student learning the basics. Word 2000 or Excel 2000 programs are fairly compatible with their XP versions and with some minor adjustments you should be able to cover most of the material. Word 97, Excel 97, Access 97 or Access 2000 are significantly different than the XP versions so working with the courseware will be more complex or in some cases impossible.
How do I know what version I have?
Open the program in question, click on the word Help on the menu bar. You will see a drop-down list. Select "About(product name)". This should display a screen that will show you various information about your software, including the version.
Should I buy new software?
This is your decision. The costs of upgrades vs. the improvements available need to be measured against your production needs. One way to experience the difference is to take our workshops using our systems rather than your at home system so you will have a comparison.
I am new to computers, is there where I start?
A basic application class is not the place for someone who has not used a computer before. The student must be familiar with the use of the keyboard (ability to type 8 words per minute), the mouse (pointing, clicking and dragging) and the file management features of a Windows operating system prior to enrollment. If you are totally new to computers, then the CS 090 class, Computers for New Users would be the best fit.
I upgraded to Windows XP and need help?
We are now offering a class in Windows XP that will help you adjust from previous versions of Windows.
How do I register?
Go to Enrollment Services for detailed information of registration options.
