12 March 2010
	REAL PEOPLE DOING UNREAL THINGS Untangling the Web By Shannon Sherry

Sam Paddock offers the first online Internet super-user course through the University of Cape Town that decodes the mysteries of communication tools such as Skype, Google, Facebook and YouTube. Through his Cape Town-based company GetSmarter, Paddock (28) has put together a "rigorous" 10-week course that teaches students from all walks of life how to get the most out of the Internet. Students can also download and print a textbook published under Creative Commons Licensing - an open-sharing licence that allows people to download and print, but not sell, the book. "For people who did not grow up with this technology, it can sometimes seem like a foreign country. But it is easy to use once you know how," says Paddock. Sam Paddock - Internet educator However, the online course is not for people who have never used a PC. "They must at least know how to navigate to a website and how to send an e-mail." He says the course is aimed at anyone who wants to find quick solutions to problems. "It is for anyone who wants to get ahead, to be informed or to enrich their relationships with their friends and family. It has a wide range of potential users, for example, new parents in need of a supportive environment. Older parents can keep in touch with their children and grandchildren." Paddock cites his sister's wedding, which an important family member could not attend because of illness. "We streamed the entire event to him and he could watch it at home on his PC." Though the course is initially more of a challenge for older people, Paddock says their confidence builds quickly. He has taught the course to people aged 16 to 70. It is updated every six months as new technologies become available. UCT's information systems department, which is in the commerce faculty, was thrilled with the idea. "They are always looking for ways to remain relevant and they saw this as one way." From the students' point of view, Paddock says, the fact that the course is offered through a university engenders trust and credibility. "And the response so far from people who want to do the course shows it's going to be a huge success." Paddock's interest in the Internet began in high school. "I found that just being able to access the Internet gave me a powerful advantage. It has to be the way of education in future. "For people who want to continue learning, like working professionals, it is the only way. If you can do the course on your PC at home, it's much easier." The 10-week course plus the textbook costs R4 900. The contact phone number is (021) 685-4775 or e-mail deborah@getsmarter.co.za. Sam Paddock Internet educator THEUNREALITYCHECK Designed an Internet users' course UCT's information systems department snapped up the idea Course is expanded and updated every six months to keep abreast of advances