A hands-on learning experience with functioning vintage Macs

The program begins with an illustrated lecture and guided discussion that frames the state of personal computing at both ends of the 1990s and details the key computing changes during the decade.

Topics include:

• Personal computing in the early 1990s vs the late 1990s
• Shared and individual computer use in homes, schools, and workplaces
• Hardware capabilities, cost, and accessibility
• Storage media and data limitations
• Online access: dial-up networks, BBS systems, and early Internet services
• The transition from dial-up modems to broadband Internet
• Operating system evolution (Mac System 7.1 → Mac OS 9.2)
• Application evolution (Microsoft Word 4.0 1989 →  version 1998) 

The lecture encourages questions throughout and concludes with an open Q&A.

 Following the lecture, participants engage in a hands-on lab featuring authentic, operational Macintosh computers from the period.

Participants:

• Use original keyboards, mice, and displays
• Navigate authentic operating systems 
• Explore software including productivity, creative, and gaming applications 
• Compare early and late systems side-by-side
• Examine period items including storage media, manuals, and Macworld magazines 

The lab combines:

• Self-directed exploration
• Guided activities and prompts

 The program concludes with a facilitated group discussion that reinforces key concepts from the lecture and hands-on lab experience. 

Participants reflect on how hardware, storage, and online access shaped everyday computing in the 1990s, with expanded time for questions and exploration. 

An optional learning assessment—such as a short quiz or reflective activity—may be included to support curriculum alignment and measure comprehension. 

This segment emphasizes synthesis, critical thinking, and real-world connections to modern technology use. 

 This structure works effectively in traditional classrooms, home schooling learning environments,  libraries, and public learning spaces. 

By the end of the experience, participants will be able to:

• Compare early and late 1990s personal computers using real technical metrics
• Explain how hardware, storage, networking, and software evolved together
• Describe how users accessed networks and online services before modern Internet
• Identify key differences between System 7.1 and Mac OS 9.2 and between Microsoft Word v4 1989 and 1998 version
• Understand how software capabilities changed user productivity
• Connect historical computing constraints to modern technology expectations

Learning objectives can be adjusted for audience level and program goals.

High School

• Supports STEM, technology education, and science history
• Encourages inquiry-based and comparative thinking

College & Higher Education

• Suitable for media studies, computer science history, digital humanities, and information science
• Emphasizes systems thinking and trade-offs

Libraries & Community Learning

• Accessible to general audiences
• Ideal for public programming and intergenerational learning

We offer two convenient pricing models for our learning experience:

• Per Participant Rate – Ideal for experiences where pricing is based on individual attendees.
• Flat Rate – Perfect for experiences with a fixed budget, regardless of the number of participants.  Single session, half day, and full day availability.