About the Learning Center

Did you know that the Gold Country Computer Learning Center provides low-cost classes and has taught computer skills to over 4,500 people in our community, many of whom had no previous computer experience? We are a friendly and affordable choice for Grass Valley area residents to learn computer skills.

The GCCLC started as part of SeniorNet, a nationwide organization that serves over 240 learning centers and 40,000 members in the U.S. The Grass Valley Center opened in 2000 at the Grass Valley Community Center. Since then, over 2,500 area residents have graduated from our programs, all eagerly looking for ways to use their new skills.

The Gold Country Computer Learning Center is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, managed and completely run by over 70 volunteers who contribute over 5,500 hours per year to the Center’s educational operation.   We offer more than 17 different computer classes.  Our classes range from absolute basics to word processing, spreadsheets, the Internet and e-mail through to advanced classes on managing digital photographs and genealogy.  Our typical schedule provides over 26 low-cost classes, three times a year, providing instruction to over 600 students each year.  In addition to these classes, 6 to 10 Workshops on specific subjects are provided each semester along with a Seminar and User Group meeting scheduled once per month.

Our classroom computers are equipped with Microsoft Windows XP and Vista, Microsoft Works and Office 2003, as well as additional applications for digital photography and genealogy.

What we do

We use a number of different methods to optimize the learning experience.

Regular scheduled classes:

• normally consist of four 2 hour lessons
• subjects range from a series of integrated classes for beginners, through specific subjects like Digital Cameras, Internet, E-mail, Business Word & Excel, Photo Editing, etc.
• class has eight students, and learning by doing in our specially paced, supportive classroom environment
• each student has own computer, a manual or textbook
• taught by an experienced instructor supported by several coaches.

Workshops:

• like a single session, 2 hour class
• focus on a specific subject
• ad-hoc - scheduled as needed, no manual
• each student has own computer, hands-on learning

Seminars:

• held the 3rd Friday of the month, 10:00am-12:30pm
• presented by one of our technical staff
• provide in depth coverage of a single subject with handouts/notes
• seminars are presentations - rather than a hands on class.
• User Group:
• held on the 1st Friday of every month 10:00am-12:00pm.
• first half of the meeting (45 min) is a short discussion on a selected subject led by one of our techies.
• second half you can ask our panel of experts any question about your computer or hi-tech problem.

Our Philosophy

We believe in learning by doing.  There’s one computer per student.  A student manual and appropriate software are provided for each course.  Our all-volunteer training teams consist of instructors, who lead the courses, and coaches who work with the students to ensure they successfully complete each lesson.  We do our best to accommodate any student’s special needs.

We provide a friendly, enthusiastic environment where students can learn to use computers and share computing experiences.  We’re helping to build a community of computer literate adults who are able to manage information and graphics, use email, and experience the World Wide Web (Internet).

Are you:

• A “New to computer” user.
• Re-entering the workplace - This is often a “stay at home” parent now looking to return to work and needing to enhance their computer skills.
• A low-income “new to computer” user -  Our low-cost tuition provides a much lower cost alternative to the local Junior College.  We also assist low income users by providing refurbished computers at no charge.
• A baby boomer who has only specialized workplace skills – Such skills are often in a specific application or consist of a limited set of tasks and you now need to broaden your computer skills.
  A digital photography user - Most people are buying digital cameras and would like to understand how to do basic editing to significantly enhance the enjoyment of their photos.
• Wanting to stay abreast of new technology - Technology changes occur rapidly and with significant impact.  We view as a part of our job helping you learn about and adapt to new technology that we can't even envision yet.