Recently, I taught a group of sales people how to use e-mail.  Before the session began, a participant approached me with a nervous look on his face. Timidly, he told me that he had not been “born with a mouse in his hand”.  I smiled and assured him that neither had I!  I promised him that I’d make the process as painless as possible. 
 
Does this scenario not tell us something about the anxiety that technology is causing many of us?  We might not have a choice about whether or not to use computers; however, we do have a choice of how we approach the learning process.

• Think like a student.  Teach only what’s necessary and stay focused. 
• Reduce the perceived intimidation factor.  Relate the technology to something familiar (e.g., learning how to drive a car, recording with a VCR, etc.). 
• State it simply!  Use little or no jargon.  Break concepts down into manageable and digestible pieces. 
• Demonstrate the concept.  Then let the students touch it and try it. 
• Summarize the concept.  Make a logical transition to the next one.