Help older people learn basic IT skills

Pleasure to work with Ann Marie

The Getting Started tutor experience

It has been an absolute pleasure to get to know Ann Marie and introduce her into the world of technology and Internet: getting the basics on how to search on google, how to book flights or how to comfortably surf the web are life-changing skills, writes volunteer tutor Alvaro. The first day I met Ann Marie, I sensed she was hesitant and scared of technology, hearing on the radio that people got scammed and lost money over the Internet. She was also worried other people might be recording conversations or seeing messages. She clearly wanted to jump into the smartphone era, but these fears were holding her back. She was also a big fan of the keyboard on her old phone, something she would have to give up for the screen keyboard present on smartphones nowadays. We spent the first 2 classes just talking about technology in general and clarifying concepts, reassuring her the Internet was a safe place if she had the skills to use it properly. Then, we moved on to the benefits of using the Internet: better deals and discounts on hotels, restaurants and cafés reviews, using Google Maps to find routes, getting opening hours of places in town, and other useful information such as free music and videos on youtube!

Her first smartphone

The big day came when she decided to purchase a smartphone and come to Age Action right away with her new tool. We showed her the basics of the phone: how to turn it off, how to change volume, how to make and receive phone calls, take pictures, and how to use Google on it. She was delighted she could get an alarm call every morning with the phone. By the end of the class she was already sending messages to her sister and using Google voice to ask questions. Ann Marie now has the skills to get comfortable with technology, and use her new smartphone daily, you can be next, don’t be afraid of getting in touch with Age Action and we will have you getting started with the basics of the digital life There’s an option within the keyboard settings, where you can get a larger, brighter keyboard with the keys backlight in dark colours, this simple tool will make your typing much easier, especially in the first weeks with the smartphone. P

Stepping into a technological utopia

The Getting Started learner experience

Having stepped past the threshold of the front door of the Age Action Ireland office on Model Farm Road, my sister and I took the leap into an unknown technological utopia. We were greeted by the Administrators, Julie and Sigrid who were pleasant and most welcoming, writes learner Ann Marie. Then I was introduced to my tutor, Alvaro. He was truly wonderful. How he made the world of tech savvy techniques easier to understand. At first, I was apprehensive about pursing the course. Fear is one of the greatest barriers to progress. I can honestly say that the material learned concerning computer operations and mobile phone devices was amazing.

New Samsung phone

For myself, I ended up purchasing a Samsung mobile phone.  I never thought I would do that.  Now I can make a call, take a call, go on Google; use the camera. There are so many more Information technology skills to acquire - I find that I am ready to “launch” myself into this amazing world. Alvaro really explained concepts to me so patiently. The other tutors, too, were very helpful. Conversations over tea and coffee were inspiring and interesting. We truly enjoyed ourselves. Mary and I would recommend others to take on the courses offered in technology by Age Action. We thank all concerned in our learning very much for opening our world to technology.