Catalog of RASCAL Courses
Titles followed by an asterisk - * - are 1 day, 2 hour classes.
ACCESS, Beginning
(Pre-Req: Exerience with spreadsheet software, such as MS Excel or equivalent)
Learn to use this data processing program to handle common data entry, storage, manipulation, analysis, and reporting tasks.
AVERY DESIGN-PRO LIMITED *
(Pre-Req: Familiarity with Windows file management and clip art.)
Avery DesignPro Limited (version 5.4) is a free download, compatible with Windows XP and Vista. The class will demonstrate the ease of creating professional-looking labels, cards, and CD labels, using your personal design and information. Customize quickly and print using the step-by-step guide.
BROWSERS & SEARCH ENGINES, Q & A *
(Pre-Req: None)
Demonstrations will be given of the most popular browsers and search engines, with students being encouraged to ask questions.
CD-RW
(Pre-Req: Beginning Windows)
Learn the functions and capabilities of CD-RW (Read/Write) drives, including basic installation of hardware and software. Understand the difference between CD-R and CD-RW blank disks, and learn how to create a CD for a variety of purposes -- such as programs, data, or music -- that can be played in your car or home.
COMPUTER AUDIO RECORDING & EDITING
(Pre-Req: Intermediate Windows. Students should bring personal headphones and a USB flash drive in order to save class exercises or projects.)
Learn how to convert audio records & tapes to a CD and record live internet radio. You will be introduced to standard, basic audio recording and editing utilizing a home-based computer system. We will cover the basics of recording analog audio to a computer, editing recordings, digital audio output formats and playback media, all presented in non-technical terms for the home computer user. In this hands-on class students will be expected to complete assigned exercises and be comfortable with using a mouse and navigating Windows XP or Vista program screens and the setup of standard folders and file formats. A CD with instructional materials and software will be provided for student use during the class.
COMPUTER EQUIPMENT CLEANING & CARE *
(Pre-Req: None)
This class offers a demonstration and practical guide to the physical maintenance and cleaning of desktop and laptop/notebook computers and other peripheral computer equipment. Learn how to safely clean the inside of a desktop computer tower case; learn to clean CRT and LCD Monitors; learn printer and scanner maintenance. Learn what common tools to use and which household cleaners to use and which to not use.
COMPUTER SECURITY & FIREWALLS *
(Pre-Req: Intermediate or above computer user)
Learn the use of firewalls and antivirus protectors. Learn to install a firewall and see it function, and understand the meanings of firewall messages.
CONVERTING VIDEOTAPES TO DVDs *
(Pre-Req: None.)
A lecture class centering on hardware and software requirements for transferring videotapes to DVD media or to a home computer for video editing. Special Note: this class is a prerequisite for the Beginning Video Editing class.
CREATING & SHARING GREAT HOME MOVIES *
(Pre-Req: Be able to download data into the computer, manage files, and import files into a program.)
See how easy it can be to create, edit, and add special effects to movies using Windows Movie Maker. Build a movie with a few simple drag-and-drops. Then share the movie via the Web, email, or on a CD. Using third-party software you can even take movies you have made and turn them into DVDs.
DATA MANAGEMENT *
(Pre-Req: Introduction to Computers, Beginning Windows)
Learn how to manage computer-based documents and files. This is a lecture course. The discussion will include: using MS Explore for data management; the differences between documents and files and folders; naming and saving – folders/files/documents; creating new folders; backing up data to a CD, DVD, or a USB Flash Drive; finding lost or misplaced folders, documents, and files.
DATA MANAGEMENT for VISTA
(Pre-Req: Introduction to Computers. Familiarity with basic, standard Windows terms.)
This lecture-discussion class provides an introduction and overview of techniques and standard practices used for managing data stored on a computer hard-drive, CD, DVD, or Flash media, with an emphasis for Vista users. We'll discuss differences between folders, files, and documents; setting up and using document, pictures, and media folders; finding lost documents and files using the Search utility program; creating new folders and why you should; naming files and documents; and the easy way to back up data.
DESIGNING A HOLIDAY LETTER *
(Pre-Req: Beginning Windows and Word or Works.)
Enhance the appearance of your holiday letters with fancy fonts and colors. Design them to reflect the season and add interest with timely graphics and even photos. Also create distinctive, personalized form letters for other purposes and occasions.
DIGITAL CAMERA, Beginning *
(Pre-Req: Beginning Windows, Beginning Email & Internet)
Learn the four basics needed by a beginning digital camera user and much more. Receive step by step instructions on how to download your photos from the camera, and on how to email, print out, enhance, and crop your photos. Instructions on how to use a portable hard drive for transporting photos from one computer to another will be demonstrated. Instructional handouts prepared specifically for either Windows XP or Windows Vista users will be available.
eBAY, BUYING & SELLING *
(Pre-Req: Beginning Windows, Beginning Email & Internet)
Explore the wonders of selling and shopping on-line. Learn how to register, buy & sell on eBay using the bidding process. Learn the advantage of using PayPal in buying and selling products.
EMAIL & INTERNET, Beginning
(Pre-Req: Introduction to Computers & Beginning Windows)
A very detailed and basic introduction to Email and the Internet. Handouts will teach you how to get started using email so that you may then apply what you've learned to your individual email program. Learn how to create, send, and receive email. Learn how to surf, search and download information using Internet Explorer.
EMAIL GIFS, CLIPART, & MUSIC
(Pre-Req: Beginning Windows and Beginning E-Mail & Internet)
Learn to search the Internet for gifs, clipart, signatures and music. Save them on a disk or in a folder and use them to enhance the appearance of e-mail.
EMAIL, WEB MAIL, & ISPs *
(Pre-Req: None)
Learn the differences between email and web mail, and of the different types of Internet Service Providers, while being encouraged to ask questions.
EXCEL, Beginning
(Pre-Req: Beginning Windows; ability to use a diskette)
Learn to locate and name the elements of this spreadsheet program, with emphasis on the Standard, Formatting and Formula menu bars. Apply basic number and cell formatting, simple formulas, open and close workbooks correctly, print and save to a drive. Students with XP on their laptops should bring their laptops to class. Bring a flash drive or two 3.5 floppy disks or a CD to class to save class examples.
EXCEL, Intermediate
(Pre-Req: Beginning Excel)
Review the basics, and work with relative and absolute references, formulas, conditional formatting, and multiple worksheets. Bring two 3.5 floppy disks.
GENEALOGY, Beginning *
(Pre-Req: Beginning Windows, Beginning Email & Internet)
Learn to get started compiling your family history, and organize your findings. Research both off and on line. Learn how to download an excellent free genealogy program from the Internet.
GENEALOGY, Intermediate
(Pre-Req: Beginning Genealogy)
Learn various searching methods, content of types of U.S. censuses, and other sources of genealogical information, such as libraries, archives, repositories, and the Internet. Emphasis will accommodate student interests.
GENEALOGY, Advanced
(Pre-Req: Beginning & Intermediate Genealogy)
Learn to subscribe to free genealogy newsletters. Have a hands-on experience researching various online sources, making full use of links found on websites.
GENEALOGY, What's New?
(Pre-Req: Some familiarity with Genealogy searching and with using the internet.)
Learn of the newest methods of searching for your family history, such as through social networking, blogs, new and improved websites, and how to utilize them.
GREETING CARDS & PRINT SHOP 20
(Pre-Req: Beginning Windows)
This is a good class for beginners. Learn to create greeting cards using Print Shop 20.
GREETING CARDS (LAYERED) in WORD *
(Pre-Req: Beginning Word)
This class will cover how to create a decorative border using the text box function in MS Word; how to insert clip-art or pictures inside the text box; how to layer the bordered art onto the card; and even a fast and simple way to make an envelope to fit the card.
HALLMARK GREETING CARD STUDIO
(Pre-Req: Basic computer skills, email, files, and copy/paste.)
This class will introduce you to the ease of creating greeting cards, invitations, calendars, labels, and more. The class will go through the steps of choosing a card, personalizing it, printing techniques, and sending by mail or email. Although many of the instructions in the class will refer specifically to cards, you can follow the same basic steps to create envelopes, certificates, stationery, calendars, labels, and other projects.
INTERNET EXPLORER 7 (The INS and OUTS of)
(Pre-Req: Beginning Windows)
This class will focus on the new features of the Internet Explorer 7. You will learn how to use the new tabbed browsing features, the instant search box, favorites center, and advanced printing. We’ll also look at security settings and learn keyboard shortcuts for an easier, faster, safer way to surf the internet.
INTERNET SEARCHING SUCCESSFULLY
(Pre-Req: Knowledge of how to access the net, and how to upload and download files, programs, and upgrades.)
Learn more efficient and safe ways to use the increasingly growing and vastly complex internet.
INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTERS
(Required for First-Time Computer Users)
A fun class. Learn the proper method to turn a computer on and off. Learn to use the mouse and keyboard. Get acquainted with hardware, software, and computer vocabulary.
ISOLATION SOFTWARE
(Beginning Vista or XP)
Learn to set up and use Sanboxie: a form of software (free version available) that is like a miniature "Virtual Machine." It reduces the chance of getting viruses and malware by isolating your internet browsing and email from the rest of your PC. It allows you control over what is downloaded to your "real" windows. You may also try new software in a protected environment until you're sure you want it.
PAINT - MICROSOFT
(Pre-Req: Ability to use multiple screens, the mouse, cut & paste, save work)
Paint is a simple, basic program for manipulating images. The program’s tools are basic to other paint programs, therefore it is worth learning and may be useful for graduating to more complicated image programs.
PC HARDWARE
(Pre-Req: Intermediate to advanced skills)
This class will focus on computer architecture, including components and their functions and learning about what is "inside the box". Look at maintenance, adware, spyware, viruses, and the general clean-up processes. Circumstances permitting, actual upgrades may be performed in class..
PHOTO EDITING, Beginning
(Pre-Req: Beginning Windows and Word or Works; ability to use mouse well)
Gain a basic understanding of the capabilities of photo editing programs. Learn how to manipulate photos, moving one into another; learn to present pictures over the Internet; learn transferring, feathering, and opacity. Learn to choose resolutions and, generally, how to use tools.
PHOTO & GRAPHICS EDITING
(Pre-Req: Previous experience with any photo or graphics program)
The goal of this class is to seek a solution for each student's photo or graphic project. The method is to teach photo, graphic concepts and how solutions are arrived at, regardless of the software being used.
PHOTSHOP ELEMENTS, Intermediate
(Pre-Req: Previous experience with any graphic program.)
For beginning, intermediate & advanced students. The goal of this class is to seek a solution for each student's graphic project.
PICASA *
(Pre-Req: Beginning Windows)
This one day class introducing Picasa, a free photo manipulating program, will emphasize picture enhancement, saving, sizing, and sending. For the beginner. You will learn basic photo editing techniques.
PICASA WEB ALBUMS *
(Pre-Req: Picasa.)
New features of Picasa 3 help you get your photos online. Learn how to create Web albums to share with family and friends. Also learn how to put your photos on the map using integration with Google Maps and Google Earth.
POWERPOINT, Beginning
(Pre-Req: Beginning Windows)
Learn to produce family stories or professional presentations utilizing animation and other media effects.
Powerpoint is a powerful program, that is surprisingly easy to use.
POWERPOINT, Intermediate
(Pre-Req: Beginning Powerpoint)
This is an advanced topic course. It has been developed for the "home" computer user and will be presented in relatively non-technical terms. The course will focus on the more advanced features and capabilities of the PowerPoint application. Also included will be a discussion of integration of multimedia source material (photo/audio/video) into slideshows and presentations. This is a hands-on class. Students will be expected to complete assigned exercises. Students should be comfortable with, or have a working knowledge of, PowerPoint's basic features and functions.
PUBLISHER, Beginning
(Pre-Req: Beginning Windows, Beginning Word or equal, diskette use)
Learn how to do desktop publishing for such projects as signs, fliers, manuscripts, etc.
QUICKEN, Beginning
(Pre-Req: Basic computer use; Beginning Windows, Vista or XP; knowledge of how to balance a checkbook; preferably, have Quicken '07 or '08 installed; if possible, bring laptop with Quicken installed.)
Set up your first Quicken files. Set up accounts under: Checking, Savings, Home, Mortgage, & Investments; use Registers; create & print checks; use memorized transactions and repeat transactions; balance checkbook; use investment tools.
SCANNERS *
(Pre-Req: None)
In this informational, 2-hour lecture/discussion class you will learn the essentials for scanning documents, photographs, slides and negatives. Learn the secret to printing scanned images. Learn the secret for resolving the differences between scanner, printer, and computer monitor resolution., manuscripts, etc.
SKYPE *
(Pre-Req: Basic experience using Windows & Internet)
Learn how to use the free download SKYPE Service to make free phone calls to SKYPE neighbors and friends across the country, using your computer and a microphone. There is also free video-to-video calls and conference calling. I will demonstrate downloading and installing SKYPE, setting it up, and then we will actually make some calls during class. I will also discuss other features of SKYPE that are fee based, but very reasonable.
TRANSITION to WORD 2007 *
(Pre-Req: Word processing experience.)
This class offers an overall look at Microsoft's newest word processing program. This course is designed for those already knowledgeable in word processing.
TRANSITION to VISTA *
(Pre-Req: Experience in XP.)
This class will give you an overall look at Microsoft's newest operating system. Upgrading from XP will not be addressed.
VIDEO EDITING SEMINAR: An Introduction to Video Editing *
(Pre-Req: An interest in the subject matter.)
This class has been developed for the "home" computer user and will be presented in relatively non-technical terms. Participants will be introduced to the processes involved for editing video on a home computer. The seminar will provide an introduction to: Computer Equipment Suitable for Processing Video Content; Video Equipment; Computer/Video Hardware Integration; Software Applications for Processing Video Content; Methods for Saving and Viewing Video Projects; Project and Workflow Concepts.
VIDEO EDITING (Microsoft Moviemaker), Beginning
(Pre-Req: The Introduction to Video Editing, Seminar; Intermediate Windows)
This course will introduce students to standard video editing processes. It will cover: Importing Video to Computer, Editing Video Clips, Audio Soundtracks, Transitions & Effects, Titles & Credits, Workflow Concepts, and Video Playback Media. This course has been developed for the "home" computer user and is presented in relatively non-technical terms. This is a hands-on course. Students will be expected to complete assigned exercise(s). Students should be comfortable with using a mouse and navigating standard Microsoft XP Windows, screens, and formats. Bring to class a 512mb or 1gig USB flash drive in order to save class exercise(s) or project(s).
VISTA, Beginning
(Pre-Req: Introduction to Computers)
This class is a continuation of basic computer skills. Identify and use parts of the newest Microsoft Operating System. Learn the difference between system software and application programs. Learn how to use the basic controls, menus, icons, and toolbars on various windows and the desktop. Windows XP users are welcome to take this class.
WEB PAGE DESIGN, Beginning
(Pre-Req: Beginning Windows, Beginning Email & Internet, Beginning Word)
Learn the basics of web page design. Create a place for family photos, personal adventures, poems, pets, diaries, hobbies, and garden.
WINDOWS LIVE MAIL *
(Pre-Req: Beginning Windows, Beginning Email.)
Learn the difference between Outlook, Outlook Express, Windows Mail, and Windows Live Mail (WLM). WLM is a free download for either XP or Vista. Explore downloading and installing WLM, its email account setup and basic functionality. Class includes how to integrate your Hotmail, Gmail, and AOL mail accounts into WLM. Set up the WLM manager and back up WLM.
WINDOWS MEDIA PLAYER
(Pre-Req: Windows XP or Vista, Beginning. Students will need a USB Flash Drive, one commercially recorded music CD, and personal ear phones to listen to audio playback.)
This course is an introduction to the Media Player which is a program resident in Windows XP and VISTA. Learn of its primary features and functions with regard to music and video. The management of these files will be discussed. Learn how to play and copy (rip) music, create playlists, and create custom music. This course is designed for the non-technical computer user and presented in common terminology.
WINDOWS MOVIEMAKER (Video Editing) Intermediate
(Pre-Req: Vista or XP - Beginning; or Video Editing Introduction Seminar; or Moviemaker.)
Learn Intermediate level video editing techniques: Importing Video to Computer, Editing Video Clips, Soundtracks, Transitions & Effects, Titles & Credits, and Video Slideshows. Workflow Concepts and Playback Media will also be covered. This course will include a brief review of Moviemaker basics. Personal headphones and a USB flash drive optional.
WINDOWS VISTA, Beginning
(Pre-Req: Introduction To Computers)
This class is a continuation of basic computer skills. Identify and use parts of the newest Microsoft Operating System. Learn the difference between system software and application programs. Learn how to use the basic controls, menus, icons, and toolbars on various windows and the desktop. Windows XP users are welcome to take this class.
WINDOWS XP, Beginning
(Pre-Req: Introduction To Computers)
This lecture class is a continuation of Introduction to Computers. It includes instruction on how to handle files; copying to a CD; the organization of your computer; computer protection; and more.
WINDOWS XP & VISTA, Intermediate/Advanced
(Pre-Req: Windows XP or Vista, Beginning.)
Learn extra maneuvers such as customizing/adding/changing menu items, and capturing screen images. Learn to use the Windows Cleanup programs such as defrag and disk cleanup; become familiar with System Restore. Go into theses multi-layered programs in detail. This will be a Q & A class, along with lecture.
WINDOWS XP, Advanced
(Pre-Req: Windows XP, Beginning or a moderate familiarity with the program.)
Learn extra maneuvers such as customizing/adding/changing menu items, and capturing screen images. Learn to use the Windows Cleanup programs such as defrag and chkdsk; become familiar with System Restore. Go into this multi-layered program in detail.
WORD 2000 - 2003, Beginning
(Pre-Req: Beginning Windows.)
Learn the names, and locate elements of this Microsoft word processing program. Emphasis on the Standard and Formatting tool bar buttons. Work with documents, print and save. Use of a 3.5 floppy disk recommended but not required.
WORD 2007, Beginning
(Pre-Req: Beginning Windows)
Learn to navigate the newest version of this word processing program. Get acquainted with the Ribbon which takes the place of the menu bar. Enjoy easier tool applications, and more colorful and interesting graphic editing.
WORD, Intermediate
(Pre-Req: Beginning Word)
Review skills learned in Beginning Word. Use tabbed material, tables, bulleted and numbered lists, shortcut keys, etc. Understand Styles (the heart of Word), Section Breaks, Headers & Footers, Legal Numbering, Document Merge, and much more.
WORKS, Beginning
(Pre-Req: Beginning Windows 98 or XP)
Works is a composite program that includes a word processor (WORD), spreadsheet (EXCEL), and a database. The student will learn how to manipulate each program, use them for communication, enhance the appearance of their output, develop skills at making labels and form letters, and import clip art and photographs.
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