Do kids really understand computers better than you do?

By Rick Castellini, MCP Nationally syndicated computer consultant special to PRIME "You grew up with computers. So you understand them much better than I do." If I had a nickel for every time someone said this to me, I would be well off by now. The reality is that I did not grow up with computers. In fact, I didn't get my first computer until after I was a few years out of college working as a physical therapist. Now, after working in computers for more than ten years, I have solidified another reality; kids and young adults don't understand computers any better than you and I do. They don't understand it better Yes, kids are growing up with computers and don't seem to have any fear when sitting in front of them. They have a good grasp of searching and browsing the Internet as well. However, after much observation and working with the younger generations, I have found that a frightening small percentage of them really understand computers. I can use a telephone and drive my car, but I really don't have a deep understanding of how they actually work. Is knowing how it works important? So the question arises, do we really need to understand how a computer works to be an effective computer user? I think the answer is yes. Unlike household appliances that perform a specific function and are easy to operate, computers can perform thousands of operations and the ramifications of some of those functions can and do affect other computer users. Read that sentence again ... it is an important one. They don't 'get' the dangers Younger generations today don't fully realize the affect that their email and sometimes-haphazard Internet browsing habits have on other computer users. Without careful attention to Internet and computer security, their actions have the potential to cause real damage to hundreds or thousands of other computer users. Personal computer security should be the top priority of every computer user not only to protect themselves, but also protect the 'community'. Personal computer security includes keeping an updated and operational version of anti-virus, firewall, and anti-spyware software running at all times. Elders get it and get intimidated Again, from my work as a computer trainer and consultant, I consistently see that adult learners have a much greater appreciation for the technology behind a computer. They also strive to learn more about the underpinnings of the computer and what makes it tick. Sometimes I think that we let the this appreciation and quest for all the knowledge to get in the way of being truly productive with the computer as apposed to the younger set who just plow through using the technology to accomplish a task. That being said, however, I know that building at least a rudimentary base knowledge of the computer pays dividends as new computer skills are attained. Just keep learning! In summary, the point I am trying to make is that no matter how old you may be or how long you have been using a computer, a comparison between your computer skills and those of another person's cannot be made based on age alone. Like any learned skill and computers are a learned skill the longer someone studies and practices are skill, the better he or she will be at it no matter the age. Rick Castellini hosts a nationally syndicated radio show, is an author and computer consultant in Colorado. Visit his web site at HelpMeRick.com for practical tips and computer information every week.