I came across this article on ExtremeTech about how people can go about problem solving their own computer issues.
Troubleshooting tech problems is really no more difficult than solving problems in any arena.
I agree, but that might just be because I'm relentless at getting to the bottom of my computer issues. My recent computer troubles were physical, otherwise any issues I've had with my system have been solvable for me. A combination of good logical reasoning and excellent internet searching skills makes it possible to figure things out on my own almost 100% of the time.
I have tried to put myself on the other side though. I try to imagine what it's like to be completely baffled by computer problems...some people are so freightened by computers that I believe it gives them anxiety attacks. This is not an easy thing for me to do but I think it's helps to make me realize that not everybody in the world can put things together like I can.
Working in a public library is a huge reality check too, I'm not stunned by the number of people who are uncomfortable with computers anymore. Although it is my hope that I see less people baffled by technology in the future than I do now.
I see computers as wonderful tools. I also see them as investments of my own time and knowledge. On a personal level I want to know that I am able to troubleshoot this machine that I spend every waking moment fiddling with and spent so much darn money on. I guess I also gain some person fulfillment when I can find out what's wrong with it and fix it.
Of course I realize that there's a lot of people out there who would rather have other people try to solve their problems (another reason why there will probably always be libraries and librarians in the world!), but I would hope that anybody who wants the responsibility of owning a computer (or anything for that matter) should also want to know how to fix it when things go awry. Maybe someday?
