SAN DIEGO -- Don't spend thousands of dollars learning about computers. Contact the New Media Center through the San Diego Community College District to save money and get a top-notch education for free.

The New Media Center offers free technical training ranging from entry-level computer skills to high-end professional preparation.

Classes include:

• Microsoft Word
• Excel
• PowerPoint
• Access
• ASP.NET
• 3-D Modeling
• Digital Video Production

For more information about the New Media Center, visit www.sandiegocet.net.

If only Joel Stevens had done his homework before signing on with a private school that promised many of these same courses. Stevens told the Troubleshooter he signed with Laptop Training Solutions (LTS) after a high-pressure sales pitch and obligated himself to a $9,900 education loan.

Stevens said he tried exercising his right to cancel the contract within five days, but claims LTS staff ignored his request. He said they refused to take back the laptop computer, software and books that came with the computer course.

Now, three months later Stevens brought his complaint to the Troubleshooter.

The Troubleshooter contacted the California Bureau for Private Postsecondary and Vocational Education and found that LTS has a history of complaints with the state. Spokesman Jim McLaughlin said the Bureau has 10 complaints on file against the school, mainly over refund issues. McLaughlin said "an investigation is ongoing."

To reach the Bureau online, visit www.bppve.ca.gov.

Laptop Training Solutions is also being sued by students who claim they were defrauded and wrongfully denied refunds.

Attorney Doug Campion accused the school of false advertising, unfair business practices and several violations of the California education code. Campion is now in the process of certifying a class-action lawsuit on behalf of all Laptop Training Solution students.

To contact Campion, call 619-299-2091.

In the meantime, LTS President Matt Kolesar said his company has done nothing wrong. Kolesar said that with hundreds of students, he expects occasional complaints. He said Stevens and the Troubleshooter are just making something out of nothing. But, he said he will work on a refund once Stevens has returned training materials.