I once heard someone say that a human’s first meeting with a computer often resembles early, awkward sex. You’re not sure what to do with your hands and you don’t know how to ask for what you want. That comparison may seem a little extreme, but any new interaction brings with it a certain amount of anxiety, fear, and possibly even hostility. Getting to know a computer, no matter how “user-friendly” it or its software may be, is no different from any other new encounter.

Create a relaxed learning atmosphere. A quiet environment with no traffic, comfortable chairs, and no direct light shining on the computer screen creates a feeling of safety and security. In any learning task, the inherent internal pressure to perform remains, but it can be alleviated somewhat by environmental comfort. When the computer seems more approachable or less threatening, the learner can absorb far more material in a shorter period of time.

Provide a verbal and written outline of your purpose and method. A road map makes a journey more comfortable. Letting trainees know what they are going to do, how they are going to do it, and what your goals for their learning may take time, but it sets the stage and better prepares the learners. Any perceived secrets or surprises start to dissipate when this preparation is provided.

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