I am a university lecturer and have gotten into IT that way -- hence the newbie!  I am in that twilight zone between clueless masses and cutting edge expert ;)  i.e. I spend most of my time pushing for better use of technology in my work environment (currently pioneering distance learning at my host institution) and answering the tech questions of my colleagues but as I dip my toe into the hardcore IT world, feel completely clueless!  So the words of wisdom of you IT gurus will be gratefully received!