Computer Classes offered during January

NEWTON — Project Self-Sufficiency will be offering a variety of computer classes in January, including an Introduction to Personal Computers, introductory and advanced classes in Microsoft Word, introductory Excel classes, QuickBooks, and workshops designed specifically for men.

All classes will take place in the agency’s Career Center, which is located at 127 Mill Street in Newton. The fee for each computer course is $10, and all of the remaining workshops are free. Students must be registered Family Success Center or Project Self-Sufficiency participants.

A basic Introduction to Personal Computers will be offered on Mondays and Wednesdays, Jan. 6 to 27, from 6 to 9 p.m., and on Tuesdays and Thursdays, January 7 to 23, from 9 a.m. to noon. This introductory course is designed for first-time computer users or people with limited computer experience. Students will learn computer basics, including the different components of the computer and the performance of simple procedures. Fundamental keyboarding skills and a brief overview of popular software applications, including Microsoft Word, Excel, Power Point and Outlook will also be discussed.

Introductory classes in Microsoft Word will be offered on Mondays and Wednesdays, Jan. 6 to 27, from 9 a.m. to noon, and on Tuesdays and Thursdays, Jan. 7 to 23, from 6 to 9 p.m. Advanced Microsoft Word courses will be held on Tuesdays and Thursdays, Jan. 7 to 23, from 6 to 9 p.m. Students will learn word-processing techniques, including the creation of professional-looking letters, faxes, newsletters and other documents, as well as the use of mail merge features used to print mailing labels and address letters to multiple recipients. Participation in the introductory level Microsoft Word course is required prior to registration in the advanced class.

Those interested in learning about Microsoft Excel are encouraged to attend an introductory class on Tuesdays and Thursdays, January 7th – 23rd, from 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m., or on Mondays and Wednesdays evenings, Jan. 6 to 27, from 6 to 9 p.m. Instruction will center on the creation of spreadsheets, databases and workbooks for use in tracking inventory, sorting data and creating mailing lists. Students will learn how to add, subtract, multiply and divide rows and columns using formulas and become adept at storing, managing and interpreting data. Students must complete the introductory level Microsoft Excel class before registration in the advanced course.

A course in QuickBooks Accounting Software will be offered on Fridays, Jan. 10 to Feb. 21, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Students will learn how to organize personal or business finances, track orders and payments, generate invoices, monitor and manage expenses and produce sophisticated reports and sales forecasts.

A special Men’s Employment Lab will be offered on Wednesdays, Jan. 8 to 29, 9 a.m. to noon and from 6 to 9 p.m. Participants will receive basic computer instruction, and assistance with resume development and job search techniques.

The agency will also offer a series of workshops during the day and evening which are designed to help participants land and succeed at new jobs. Courses will cover “Resumes & Cover Letters”, “Interviewing Skills”, “Job Search & Networking Techniques”, “Financial Management”, “Workplace Literacy”, “Salary Negotiations”, and “Careering 102.” Project Self-Sufficiency’s Career Center also offers help with obtaining a GED; job training for women, teens and young adults; career counseling and assessment; Job Start and Job Search services. Interested participants are encouraged to contact the agency for a schedule.

The fee for each computer course is $10, and all other seminars are free. All computer classes at the agency are open to registered Family Success Center and Project Self-Sufficiency participants. To inquire about eligibility, or to find out more about the computer courses, seminars or career fairs offered at Project Self-Sufficiency, call 973-940-3500, or visit www.projectselfsufficiency.org.