Ideal courses for online beginners

At least one in five adults in Ireland has never used the internet — but BenefIT training in basic digital skills now going on around the country offers the chance for beginners to start surfing the net.

Training focuses on the digital skills people need — how to use email, do an internet search, use services like Skype, conduct simple on-line transactions like booking a ticket or paying a bill, as well as optional training in more advanced areas.

Courses are delivered through community and voluntary organisations and are offered at low cost or are free.

The best way to find out what courses are available locally requires enough skills to access an interactive map on the internet at http://www.dcenr.gov.ie/Communications/Knowledge+Society/BenefIT/Benefit+4+Training+Locations.html (the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources website).