Information

Registration

PAAM'S 2012
Summer Course
listings by subject :

Technology Fundamentals with Dave Fournier
July 11, July 18, July 25, August 1, August 8, or August 15, 6-8pm
$45 per day, $250 for the series

Technology Fundamentals provides you with the knowledge, skills and experience required to utilize computers and technology effectively and affordably.

Topics covered include: Hardware and Software; Microsoft Office; Internet and Email; Photos, Music, and Video; Services, such as Netflix, Pandora, Hulu; Security Basics; Terminology (RAM, HDMI, etc); Data Backup (why it's important, different options) and Mobile Phones (Apple and Android).

Take the whole series or a single one. This workshop is designed to fit your needs and answer your questions.

Workshop Materials List

Session 1, July 11: Introduction to Technology
This leads into a brief but very informative history of information and communications technology (including Microsoft, IBM, Apple, the Open Software movement, and today's biggest competitors) and the different approaches on how to use it efficiently. The terminology as well as facts that everybody should know will be explained. This session gives you a solid understanding on what this every changing world means.

Session 2, July 18: What to Buy & Why
A great course if you are interested in purchasing new technology including laptops, desktops, smartphones, or tablets. What are your options? Should you go with a PC or a Mac? Any and all questions you may have are answered. With firsthand experience with nearly every hardware manufacturer, software company, and service provider, solid advice abounds!

Session 3, July 25: Programs and So Much More
Learn to utilize the technology currently available to its fullest potential, including a wide-range of topics including specific programs, email, photos, music, video, and getting the most out of the internet with services such as Netflix, Pandora, and Hulu. All platforms and devices covered, including Microsoft, Apple, and Android. Best of all, you’ll learn tricks to decrease your technology costs.

Session 4, August 1: Rules of the Road
Learn essential tips about technology including making your devices last longer, battery usage, updates, and security. It’ll also include rules of data backup and how to set it up efficiently. Did you know laptops shouldn’t be charging all the time? Or how fragile a hard drive is? You’ll leave knowing the do’s and don’ts.

Session 5, August 8: Cross-Platform Computing
A computing platform allows software to run and for most people is not something you generally think about until you’re having a problem. Microsoft Windows, Mac OS X, Linux, Android, and BlackBerry OS are examples of platforms. Cross-platform refers to software for more than one type of platform. The most universal cross-platform application are web browsers, which are written for every computer and mobile platform (i.e. phones) to make web pages almost the same no matter what they run on. What does this mean for you? Learn about the most compatible programs for your devices, better alternatives to what you might already be using, and how it may shape the future of technology.

Session 6, August 15: What is the Cloud?
Discover the cloud and when and why it was born. Should you make the switch? Discussion includes Google's privacy policies and what they mean; using the cloud in a safe and secure way; major advantages and disadvantages; and how it may progress in the future. Share information between your desktop, laptop, phone and tablet! Go to work and have your information from home. Make a change on the road and have it automatically updated. Never be out of reach from your info again.


Dave Fournier found his love for technology early in life and by the age 5, knew how to operate an Apple II Computer. By 15, he was certified by The Computing Technology Industry Association and started his computer repair business, Consumer IT Solutions. In the technology world, simplicity is the key to making it a useful tool, both to a home user, as well as a small business. He lives in Provincetown where he runs his business, offering affordable technology solutions and services.