When you are being computer instructor, you should be fully comfortable with the use of common software applications and able to teach yourself about advanced facilities and techniques as needed. The nearly ubiquitous Windows operating system exists in a number of versions, but at the user level all are quite similar, and mastery of the most current edition allows easy use of any of the earlier versions. A similar story applies to Apple’s Macintosh operating system. Some computer instructors and consultants are quite capable of moving back and forth between Windows and Apple clients, while others prefer to specialize. (Keep in mind that the Windows market is much larger.) Microsoft has the lion’s share of software for both operating systems; Microsoft Office (which includes Microsoft Word and the Microsoft Excel spreadsheet) operates much the same in both systems.
Get to know the facilities of area school districts. Students working on a Macintosh during the day may want to use the same sort of system when they get home at night; adults taking a community school course on Windows equipment are likely to want to use the same operating system and software at home. Sessions will generally be conducted in the homes or offices of your students, using their computer and software. You can also offer telephone support from your office or home; a developing trend involves use of special software installed on both the student’s and the teacher’s machine that allows the instructor to demonstrate tasks and make adjustments to settings by remote control over the Internet.
Some computer retail stores offer classes and tutoring for customers; contact area managers to see if there are openings for new instructors. Post flyers and ads in community schools, community centers, and senior centers. Computer stores that don’t offer their own classes may allow you to advertise your availability on their bulletin boards. Place ads in student newspapers, community newspapers, and shopping guides.