Fall classes offer opportunity to learn new skills

The Messenger 08.19.09
Fall classes offered by the University of Tennessee at Martin Office of Extended Campus and Online Studies will offer area residents the opportunity to learn new skills and pursue new interests.
Classes get under way in September in Martin.
The eight-hour “Concealed Handgun Carry Class” is planned for 5-9 p.m. Sept. 24 and 25. The instructor will be Cecil Clements, a state-certified handgun instructor. The fee is $75.
This handgun safety class will provide the student with the minimum requirements mandated by the state. The use, operation and cleaning of the handgun will be covered. The first evening will be devoted to classroom instruction and the second evening will be the firing range instruction. The student must score at least 70 percent on the firing range qualification and 70 percent on the written exam.
The successful completion of this course will allow the student to apply for a concealed weapons permit from the State of Tennessee. Each student must be at least 21 years of age and provide a handgun, pen, pencil, paper, 50 rounds of ammunition for range instruction, safety glasses and hearing protection.
“Beginning Excel” will be taught by Doug Bloodworth, UT Martin analyst and programmer, from 9 a.m.-noon Sept. 29 and Oct. 31. The fee is $85. Participants will learn to build useful spreadsheets using easy-to-use techniques.
They also will receive instruction about functions, managing files, moving and copying, formatting, sample worksheets, multiple worksheets, graphs, drawing tools for special emphasis, hints, tips and backups. Finally, they will work with the new Excel 2007 and Vista.
“Digital Photography Part I — Camera Operation/Basic Photographic Skills” will be taught by Dr. Tom Gallien from 6:30-9 p.m. on Tuesdays from Sept. 1-22. The fee is $75. This course is designed to make digital photography less intimidating. It will also help participants better understand all the settings and controls on their camera and show them how to make better photographs using the new digital technology.
Proper photographic exposure, composition and use of the camera’s histogram will be discussed. Students should take a digital camera and questions to class along with the camera’s instruction manual if available. They may also want to take a small notebook for notetaking. Printed and e-mail handouts will supplement the presentations. Even though this course is primarily for novice digital photographers, solutions and ideas for photographers with intermediate skills can also be discussed. Gallien will utilize e-mail evaluation and critiques of images during the course.
This introductory photography course is a springboard for the follow-up intermediate/advanced skills course.
“Making Sense of the ACT” will be offered for students to prepare for the Oct. 24 test 9 a.m.-noon Saturdays from Sept. 12-Oct. 3, with Ron Ramage as the instructor and a fee of $65, plus the book. There is a class limit of 20 students.
This course will help students plan a strategy to make the highest score on the test. The course is designed for first-time test takers as well as seasoned veterans. Students will be using “The Real ACT Prep Guide” and should take the book to the first class meeting. The cost of the text is not included in the registration fee. The book may be purchased on the UT Martin campus at the Barnes & Noble Bookstore.
To register for classes, call the UT Martin Office of ECOS at (731) 881-7082.
Participants may also register online at http://www.utm.edu/departments/ecce/courses_nondegree.php.

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