We are delighted to introduce Warwick, an experienced IT and Digital tutor with a rich background in both traditional and digital libraries. With nearly 20 years of experience in Essex and Havering libraries, Warwick has witnessed the transformative power of technology firsthand. His passion for technology, inspired by his late father, and his dedication to sharing knowledge have made him a beloved tutor at ACL. Warwick’s unique approach to teaching incorporates his personal experiences and coping strategies with PTSD, creating a calming and inclusive environment for his students. Join us as we delve into Warwick’s journey, his teaching methods, and the impact of his IT and Digital courses on students’ mental health and well-being.
Talking with Warwick
Can you tell us a bit about your background and what inspired you to become an IT tutor?
“I worked for nearly 20 years in both Essex and Havering libraries and during this time I saw the change over from traditional libraries to digital happening as well as seeing the opportunities and challenges that ever-evolving technology brought to both personal life and the workplace. Coupled with a fascination for technology especially radios and cameras as well as computers I picked up from my dad who sadly passed away in December 23 and a love of experimenting and sharing my knowledge becoming an IT tutor felt like a natural progression. Ultimately technology be it a smartphone or a pc is a tool, and I love seeing the opportunities and places that open up for people with these tools and skills. My PTSD mainly stems from a couple of assaults I experienced as a teenager in the 90s. My IT experience has allowed me to take advantage of both online therapy and digital wellness tools such as mindfulness and relaxation apps.”
How do you incorporate your personal experiences and coping strategies with PTSD into your teaching methods?
“One of the techniques I’ve often used in lessons is the box breathing technique used to help in stressful situations – a count of 4 breathing in, hold for 4, out for 4. I’ll also talk about the importance of asking for help when needed – whether with technical issues or anything else.”
What specific techniques do you use to create a calming and inclusive environment for your learners?
“I encourage proper break taking, sharing experiences. Also, good lighting and seating arrangements etc. I also encourage learners to change their mouse pointer settings which can help especially when getting used to the mouse.”
Can you share some examples of how your IT and Digital courses have helped improve your learner’s mental health and wellbeing?
“I’ve had learners tell me that coming to ACL digital courses is sometimes the break in the week they need and that it gets them out of the house. I’ve also worked with learners who’ve been recovering from injuries where learning new IT skills has helped to boost their confidence.”
How do you address and reduce anxiety around technology for your students?
“We talk about past experiences where things may have gone wrong, how we can learn from that and I share my personal experiences – for example last year I very nearly got scammed myself by a phishing e-mail. Thankfully all was ok, but I share my experiences. I also emphasise that computers only do what we tell them to do and that sometimes having a screen break works wonders too.”
What common challenges do your learners face in learning IT and digital skills, and how do you help them overcome these?
“I would say gaining confidence and often going from smart devices to more traditional windows pcs. I encourage accuracy over speed, celebrating small and big wins and being kind to oneself and each other.”
How do you measure the success and progress of your students in your courses?
“I set targeted goals for each learner – looking at what they want to achieve and what’s possible in the space of the course. I regularly chat to my learners in lessons. Quite often people have a very specific task they want to achieve.”
Can you describe a particularly rewarding experience you’ve had while teaching IT and Digital courses?
“It’s always rewarding seeing someone suddenly have the mouse click into place ( a bad pun but true ) – I do remember having a learners last year at st peters in Brentwood doing an exercise of copying and pasting map directions into word and seeing a learner understand that he could look up virtually anything on google. Seeing him open up in his confidence was very rewarding”
How do you keep your IT and Digital courses up-to-date and effective for ACL learners?
“Blogs, ACL training, chats with colleagues and that old go to – YouTube!”
What advice would you give to someone who is hesitant or anxious about starting an IT and Digital course?
“Don’t worry about not knowing anything or having few skills. Come along and see how you get on. Learning with others is a great experience especially as you will usually find there are others in a similar place. Also remember digital skills will open up so much to you.”
Warwick Holby – IT and Digital Tutor
At ACL, we don’t just teach IT and Digital skills; we transform lives. Our courses are designed to create a supportive and inclusive environment where learners can overcome their anxieties, gain confidence, and improve their mental well-being. With personalised teaching methods that incorporate mindfulness techniques and real-life experiences, our tutors ensure that every student feels valued and empowered. Join us to unlock new opportunities, connect with others, and discover the true potential of technology in enhancing your life.
Our many digital courses are tailored to all abilities and interests, from Computer Skills For Beginners to Software Development, explore the right one for you here.
