Computer Learning Month
October 1
About Computer Learning Month
Computer Learning Month takes place every October and encourages people of all ages to build their digital skills, try unfamiliar technology, and share what they know with others in their community. First held in October 1987, it was created to help those with little or no computer experience discover what these machines could do for them at home, at school, and at work.
What is Computer Learning Month?
Computer Learning Month is an annual observance dedicated to digital literacy and the practical use of technology. It promotes hands-on learning through community classes, school activities, and workshops, often hosted by local libraries and schools. The campaign was launched by the Software Publishers Association in 1987 and was later championed by the Computer Learning Foundation, a non-profit set up to encourage the effective and responsible use of technology in education. The month is for everyone, from first-time users and older learners to students and teachers wanting to deepen their skills.
When is Computer Learning Month?
Computer Learning Month runs throughout October every year. In 2026, it begins on Thursday, 1 October and continues until Saturday, 31 October. The date is fixed, so the observance always falls in October regardless of the year, making it easy for schools and libraries to build it into their autumn term planning.
Why Computer Learning Month Matters
Digital skills are now a basic requirement for daily life, from applying for jobs and managing money to accessing healthcare and staying in touch with family. Yet a significant gap remains. According to the International Telecommunication Union, around 2.6 billion people worldwide were still offline in 2023, and even among those with access, many lack the confidence to use technology effectively. Computer Learning Month addresses this directly by encouraging free, accessible learning opportunities. It matters because closing the digital divide is not only about hardware and connectivity, but about giving people the knowledge and confidence to take part fully in modern society.
How to Get Involved in Computer Learning Month
There are plenty of ways to take part, whether you want to learn something new yourself or help others build their skills:
- Take a free class at your local library – Many libraries run beginner sessions throughout October covering email, internet safety, and word processing. Check your local branch’s events listing.
- Learn a new skill or program – Pick one piece of software or one tool you have always meant to master, such as a spreadsheet, a photo editor, or a video-call app, and dedicate the month to learning it.
- Teach someone else – Offer to sit down with a parent, grandparent, or neighbour and walk them through something they find tricky, from sending a photo to spotting a scam email.
- Try coding for the first time – Free platforms such as Scratch, Code.org, and freeCodeCamp make it easy to write your first lines of code, whatever your age.
- Run a workshop at school or work – Teachers and employers can use the month to host short sessions on practical tools, online safety, or emerging technologies like artificial intelligence.
- Brush up on cyber safety – Use the month to review your passwords, enable two-factor authentication, and learn how to recognise phishing attempts and online fraud.
- Explore something beyond your routine – If you only ever use one device for one task, branch out. Try a new app, a creative tool, or an online course in a subject you enjoy.
History of Computer Learning Month
The first national Computer Learning Month was organised by the Software Publishers Association and held in October 1987. At a time when personal computers were rapidly entering homes and classrooms, the campaign aimed to demystify the technology and show ordinary people what it could do. The initiative received formal sanction from both houses of the United States Congress and was backed by more than 25 hardware and software companies, educational organisations, and computer publications.
The list of sponsors read like a roll call of the early computing industry, including Apple Computer, IBM, Tandy Corporation, Broderbund Software, Davidson and Associates, Britannica Software, and The Learning Company. The month featured a series of national contests across three school levels, covering computer-generated artwork, student essays, teacher lesson plans, and group projects, with winners receiving computer systems and software. The project director, Katherine Borsecnik, reported that the response far surpassed the expectations of its sponsors. A time capsule of student predictions about computer learning was even sealed during the inaugural year, intended to be opened in 2001.
As personal computing matured, the observance was carried forward by the Computer Learning Foundation, a non-profit that worked with schools, libraries, and families to promote the constructive use of technology. Over the decades the focus has shifted from introducing people to the very idea of a computer towards broader digital literacy, online safety, and the skills needed for a connected world. Today the month is marked informally by libraries, schools, and community groups around the world rather than by a single central body.
Noteworthy Facts About Computer Learning Month
- The first Computer Learning Month was held in October 1987 and was organised by the Software Publishers Association.
- It received official recognition from both houses of the United States Congress in its founding year.
- More than 25 companies and organisations, including Apple and IBM, sponsored the inaugural event.
- The 1987 launch included five national contests spanning artwork, essays, lesson plans, and group projects.
- A time capsule of children’s predictions about computers was sealed in 1987 to be opened in 2001.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Computer Learning Month?
Computer Learning Month is an annual October observance that promotes digital literacy and the practical use of technology. It encourages people to learn new skills, try unfamiliar tools, and share their knowledge with others in their community.
When is Computer Learning Month in 2026?
Computer Learning Month runs throughout October 2026, from Thursday, 1 October to Saturday, 31 October.
Who started Computer Learning Month?
The first national Computer Learning Month was organised by the Software Publishers Association in October 1987, with backing from the United States Congress and major technology companies. It was later championed by the Computer Learning Foundation.
Spread the Word
Help raise awareness by sharing Computer Learning Month with your friends, family, and followers. Use the hashtags #ComputerLearningMonth and #ComputerLearningMonth2026 on social media. The more people who know about Computer Learning Month, the more learners can be encouraged to take their first steps with technology.
Related Awareness Days
- Fibonacci Day – A November celebration of mathematics and number patterns that pairs well with the digital and computational themes of October.
- World Computer Literacy Day – Marked on 2 December, this day shares Computer Learning Month’s mission of closing the digital skills gap.
- Safer Internet Day – A global event focused on online safety, a natural companion to learning how to use technology responsibly.
Links
Featured image: Photo by Anastassia Anufrieva on Unsplash.
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