Digital-readiness classes offered at KCC, libraries

LIHU‘E — In-person, free, introductory computer classes at University of Hawai‘i community college campuses and some public libraries throughout the state will continue to be offered through September, including at Kaua‘i Community College in Puhi and libraries in Lihu‘e, Hanapepe, Princeville and Waimea.

Three-hour “digital-readiness” classes are open to all Hawai‘i residents 18 years and older who want to improve their digital literacy. The course is designed to help those with little or no computer knowledge.

More than 200 students have already increased their digital skills through these classes. Fely Dias took the course at Windward Community College.

“I am not afraid of using the computer anymore,” Dias said. “The digital-readiness class has helped me to navigate the computer better on my own. I can see the computer is a very convenient tool for me to handle the day-to-day things now. I am very appreciative that this class is free. I like this basic class. I learned to create an email and to browse the internet, which are wonderful.”

In addition to KCC, participating campuses are Hawai‘i Community College on Hawai‘i Island; Honolulu, Kapi‘olani and Windward community colleges on O‘ahu, and UH Maui College.

The courses are also available at the following library branches: Kaimuki, Kalihi-Palama, Nanakuli, Salt Lake, Wai‘anae, Waimanalo and Waipahu.

To register for digital-readiness classes at a participating location, call 808-235-7334. Students who complete this course will receive a year subscription to NorthStar’s online courses, where they can increase their digital literacy or acquire other workforce skills.

UH community colleges began offering the digital-readiness program in May in partnership with the Workforce Development Council and the Hawai‘i State Public Library System.