From paper to laptop with help from Connected Nation’s digital skills workshops

Decatur, TX. (March 10, 2025) – Internet breakthroughs like telehealth, instant messaging and rapidly evolving artificial intelligence can’t be accessed without a basic understanding of computers and the internet. That’s why Connected Nation (CN) recently brought digital skills classes to Decatur, TX.

Adult learners sat in front of laptops at Decatur Public Library on January 29 as they learned basic laptop and computer skills, as well as internet fundamentals. Digital learner Cathleen Emrick took on these digital skills trainings with the goal to have a better understanding on how to use a laptop.

“I had always worked on a computer with a mouse, and not ever with a laptop. So, it’s entirely different in the way it operates,” Emrick said.

After seeing a flyer in the library for a class teaching digital skills, Emrick was intrigued. While she was already familiar with how to use a computer and mouse, a laptop with a touchpad is a different story. Digital skills classes taught her the basics of laptop operations and helped her understand when to left-click, right-click, and double-click the touchpad.

“Technology is now running the world,” she said. “In my generation, it was a pen and a piece of paper.”

As technology continues to expand and develop, CN is working to ensure that everyone not only has internet access, but has the knowledge to use online resources. CN-led Digital Skills Training courses help people of all ages learn the basics, in a virtual or in-person class setting.

The program can be hosted by local organizations at no cost, thanks to support from AT&T. To learn more about the classes, click here to find a workshop near you! To learn how to bring this program to your community,  fill out an interest form.