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Computer Classes

We offer free computer software classes for:

  • Beginners who need the basics to get started.
  • Business owners and managers who need to learn the most widely-used business software, such as Microsoft's Office Suite.
  • Multimedia professionals who need new or sharpened skills to create new products for the new economy.
  • Information Technology professionals who need experience with Internet technology.

We have top equipment, the latest computer software and talented teachers, so you get to experience the best in the classroom. Our mission is to help train you in the information technology skills you need. And it's all free.

How to Plan Your Information Technology Training

If you are new to information technology (computers), you may wonder where to start. San Diego Continuing Education offers a wide array of classes ranging from beginning to advanced levels. Most of the classes meet for one to three sessions. There are also lengthier certificate programs which meet from nine months to one year+. And, they are all FREE!

Suggested sequence for your training:

Start with a Computer Basics class, followed by a class on Macintosh Basics and/or Windows Basics. Be sure to practice at home, in the open Mac lab at Aero, or in one of the many self-paced office skills Windows labs throughout the city.

One basic concept you really want to master is the file management structure of your computer. It will save you many headaches and lost time.

Now is a good time to start learning software applications that let you write letters and prepare documents (Word); create budgets and spreadsheets (Excel); make databases (Access); and give slideshow presentations (PowerPoint). Also, watch the website for new classes on Open Source Software.

While you are learning office software, you can also learn to use the Internet. Start with Internet Basics to learn the fundamentals and how to use e-mail. If you’re interested in eBay, now would be a great time to take eBAY--Buying and Selling.

Are you one of the many folks who have a digital camera and are still not sure how to work it? Consider taking Digital Photography Basics to get pointed in the right direction.

Next—consider Photoshop, the basis of almost all creative work on the computer. You can’t go wrong taking Photoshop.

If you are interested in creating a web site, start with Dreamweaver, and Flash. If you are interested in making printed materials (such as magazines, posters, CD covers), take Illustrator and InDesign. To learn to make websites that are easier to update, take a class on Cascading Style Sheets. To learn how to make database-driven websites, (the basis for almost all e-commerce), take more advanced Dreamweaver or website development classes that address databases. To make videos, take Final Cut or Premiere and a digital audio class.

Web technology and programming provide the concepts about web servers and websites that interact with the user. Classes include JavaScript; Linux (the operating system that most web server computers use); ASP.Net; MySQL; and PHP.

At this point, you’ll have a solid foundation. Now would be an excellent time to enroll in one of our certificate programs such as Cisco Academy, Web Server Maintenance and Security (WSMS); or the Interactive Media Certificate Program (IMCP). To obtain more information, check the website, www.sdce.edu, or call 619.388.1800.

Four Ways to Learn Computer Skills at Continuing Ed

  1. Teacher-led Classes
    Well-equipped labs and industry-based teachers are the hallmark of San Diego Continuing Education’s computer classes. These short-term classes are designed for busy adults. Hands-on classes are available to you on a wide-range of computer topics (see the grid on page xx.)

    To see a complete listing of computer classes offered by the BIT department, go to sdce.edu, click on the Classes tab → Computer Classes. From there you can filter and sort the list, print, or email it to yourself.
  2. Self-Paced Skills Labs
    During the self-paced classes, you will work under an instructor’s direction on a computer and complete exercises in tutorial books that explain each topic. You might be learning word processing, while the person next to you is learning about spreadsheets. You can enroll anytime, set your own schedule, and learn at your own pace. During some self-paced lab classes, there may be an occasional instructor lecture/demonstration on a specific topic. To enroll in an office skills certificate program, you need to see a counselor first.

    You are welcome to attend class at any location. If you need help deciding which program or class is right for you, contact the counseling office at the campus you decide to attend.
  3. Online Classes
    Online classes give you the opportunity to take a class at a time and location that fits your schedule. After an initial classroom meeting with the instructor, you will be able to access the course from home, your office or anywhere that is convenient for you. You will get the same quality education that you have come to expect in our classroom environment with the convenience of setting your own agenda!

    Most of these classes can be accessed with either a Macintosh or PC-compatible computer system and any of the popular web browsers such as Firefox, Safari or Internet Explorer. You will have a more rewarding experience if your Internet connection is either via cable or DSL, but it may be possible to use a dialup connection. Check with your instructor during the first class meeting.
  4. Certificate Programs
    San Diego Continuing Education offers industry-based certificate programs to help you change careers or develop new skills in your field. You’ll start by attending an orientation to learn about the program, and then decide if it is for you.