Technology for the Ages Part 2 of 3

Technology for the Ages

Karilea Rilling Jungel

Click Here to read Part 1

We know our children and their children are surrounded by technology, day in, day out. But so are we. We don’t always realize it when we handle our cell or smart phones, iPods or iPad, Kindle, Nook, the monitors that hook us up wirelessly to heart monitors that are read by physician miles away. We don’t recognize that we are engaged in technology and turn on the television – even if we have several remotes for the various instruments all attached to the TV. We almost take it for granted. But this very communications system streams out far and ahead of us, touching all aspects of life, from the moment you wake until you again close your eyes. And even then, your house is surrounded with waves of wireless magic.

Helen Gregg – Salina Public Library

Helen Gregg, Technology Center Trainer

Photo by KRJ

It all began with a “serendipitous moment” says Helen Gregg, Salina Public Library Technology Center Trainer. A former public school history teacher, Helen knows how to put things in perspective for her students in order that they could understand and know what to take away with them, not just memorize things to give back to her. She utilized her open ended manner of teaching – what history could give – and mean – to her students – and has now transferred that kind of thinking to her new position at the Library.

“There’s been a change in paradigms. Newer programs conceive and conceptualize differently than before. I have programs for my tablet, but I still maintain a hard drive. Some programs are compatible with apps while others aren’t.” When Helen went back to get her Master’s degree, she decided to specialize in technology. “I’m looking forward to Windows 10 as it will ultimately be more compatible. But more people are going to tablets – and I find it difficult to give up my hard drive. I use both.” Helen agrees “More and more people are going paperless.”

Helen Gregg in the Computer Lab

Photo by KRJ

At the Library and because of the internet, “It is possible for everybody to learn anything. But skills are often lacking. Students today learn ‘Google it’ and it becomes second nature. We have a full time trainer for the older generation, and we help people develop the skills to be able to use the tools that we provide. We now have a virtual library. I help people connect their devices, Kindles, Nooks, through one-on-one instruction until that person is able to do it themselves.” All of the training is free to the public. “I end up making recipe cards, step-by-step instructions so that three days later, one won’t forget the steps.”

Helen is especially excited about the classes she’s started for the “geeky” kids. “Sports are everywhere, science and environmental classes can be found out at Rolling Hills. We needed something for the geeks.” So she established tech clubs for 3rd-5th grades on Saturdays “although the youngest student – she’s a bit ahead of herself – is seven.” On Thursdays they have classes for grades 6-12. “We splash at ideas to get the kids’ excitement up and hooked – then they work on their own. “Friends of the Library gave us grant money for robotic kits so the kids can assemble robots. We have curriculum so they will be able to run tests and challenge one another.” Another fine addition to the library is the 3-D printer. “It’s an inexpensive one, but it gets the kids in learning how it works, then they figure out how to utilize it.” The Library with Helen at the helm engages the students’ website design. “We are giving them the skills and training in order to expand their virtual horizons.

The circle then returns upon itself. Helen’s one-on-one work often happens out at Eaglecrest. “My oldest student was a gentleman – 100 years old. He got a new computer, got stuck in the Windows 8 program, and wanted to figure it out. Most of my students are in their late 80’s and early 90’s. These folk are accepting the challenges of figuring out newer technology. The patrons at the library who are in their mid 60’s to late 70’s … They are just soaking it up.”

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