Free computer, software training - Navy tuition assistance, military tuition assistance, G.I. Bill, military friendly colleges - Navy Times

Free computer, software training

No access to the free services provided by Giant Campus on certain military installations? No problem. Other free resources may help you acquire — or enhance — computer skills.

• GCF Global Learning, www.gcflearnfree.com. Administered by Goodwill Industries of Eastern North Carolina, this program offers online beginning computer courses and other learning opportunities worldwide in English and Spanish.

• Microsoft, http://office.microsoft.com/en-us/training. Microsoft Office Online training courses teach Microsoft Office programs and cover specific features or activity areas. Courses are self-paced and take from 15 to 50 minutes to complete.

• Hewlett-Packard, www.hp.com/go/onlineclasses.Computer giant Hewlett-Packard offers a variety of online professional and recreational courses.

• Florida Gulf Coast University, www.fgcu.edu/support/office2000. The Fort Myers-based school offers tutorials for Office 2000 on its Web site.

• EducationOnlineforComputers.com, www.educationonlineforcomputers.com/links. Has an impressive roster of free courses as well as subscription-based offerings.

• Your public library. Many libraries offer classes in basic computer skills. Go online or call to find out what is offered near you.