By Lyndsey Kleven
Southern State Community College (SSCC) has partnered with Connect Ohio to train adults through the Every Citizen Online (ECO) program on basic computer and Internet use. More than 15,000 adults across Ohio have taken the training program to expand their technological capabilities. The free courses are helping Fayette County area adults connect and communicate online in ways many people would take for granted.
Esther Popoca took the ECO training classes at the Greater Oaks Center, a branch of SSCC located in Washington Court House. Popoca wrote a letter thanking the center, and Connect Ohio, for the computer skills she was able to gain through the classes. Before taking the classes, Popoca said she felt computer illiterate.
“Now I feel I can accomplish anything,” said Popoca after completing the ECO training.
One reason adults register for the class is to find job opportunities online after becoming unemployed. Today, the digital divide is closing in on individuals lacking basic computer skills, making it more difficult to find work.
According to a recent announcement by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) on broadband, “more than 80 percent of Fortune 500 companies post their job openings online only—and require online applications.”
Finding work is also one of the reasons Popoca wanted to learn how to use a computer.
“I learned how to open an e-mail account, which I am using in my search for employment,” said Popoca. “I can type out a resume and am learning the different applications on the Internet to help me in my job search.”
Landing a job in today’s world increasingly demands having a digital skillset. Studies show that 50 percent of today’s jobs require technology skills, and this percentage is expected to grow to 77 percent in the next decade. For those who do not have the computer skills they would like or need, there are resources available to help.
“I recommend this class to anyone who would like to learn more about the Internet and using a computer,” shared Popoca. “Please sign up and find out for yourself. Trust me, you will not regret it!”
Every Citizen Online classes are forming now, at more than 250 locations across Ohio.
Find one near you by calling 1-800-NOW-I-CAN (669-4226).
View a press release detailing the program.
Share this Post