Some returning adult students shudder to think of all the new technology that they have to learn when they come back to school.
Advances are made in technology every day, and it seems by the time you get used to one system, another one comes along.
But, don’t freak out just yet, there are people here to help.
For example, if you go to the help desk in the Sherrod Library, the staff there is trained to help you use all of the library’s search engines.
And all of the computer labs also have help desks. Don’t be afraid to ask someone to help you if there’s something you don’t understand.
The Office of Information Technology also has instruction available online which explains how to use systems like BlackBoard and Imail, ETSU’s student e-mail accounts.
I promise, asking for help will pay off in the end!
New technology is a blessing, not a curse. The technology available at school, once you learn how to use it, can be a lifesaver. Imagine having to read through book after book at the library. That could take hours – but we don’t have to do that anymore! With the click of a mouse you can pull up journal articles on just about any subject.
Don’t alienate yourself from resources simply because you feel overwhelmed. Take things one step at a time. Once you get used to using the new programs, you’ll feel a lot more comfortable.
I know in some of the courses I’ve taken, professors can rush through their explanations – it’s almost like they assume that you’re a computer whiz. If this happens, just talk to your professor and ask them to slow down. Or ask them if they’ll take some extra time out and help you outside of class. Not everyone is a computer genius, it just seems that way sometimes when we feel like we’re the only ones who are lost.
So, while you’re sitting in one of the on-campus computer labs, furtively clicking away at the mouse which seems to do nothing – remember, you’re not alone!

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