I have been passionate about using technology since I was introduced to the Apple IIe in 1984. I love learning new technologies - Computer, iPad, iPhone, Digital Camera, any kind of technology. If I thought that it could help me or my students learn, be productive or creative, I was up to the challenge of figuring it out
I love the challenge of learning how to use a device and how it can be used to help people. I am instantly on a quest to answer questions about it as I’m learning to use it.
How does it work?
Is it motivating?
How can it be effectively used?
How can I explain and show someone else how to use the device?
What can it be used for?
What problems might it solve?
What problems might it cause?
Who could use the device and why?
After I learn something new and exciting about the technology, I can’t wait to tell or show someone who I thought might benefit from it. As I come up with answers to my questions, I can’t wait to share the solutions, ideas, or techniques with someone.
The people who “benefit” from my enthusiasm, keep telling me, “You should teach a class about this.” Okay, I taught the skill or device to my Kindergarten, First, or Second grade students. I taught the teachers in my school, schools in my state, at conferences, and in other states. I taught teachers and administrators as an Apple Learning Specialist or as an Apple Distinguished Educator.
As I became a senior citizen, my focus turned to sharing my enthusiasm for technology with other senior citizens. My research concluded that there are many senior citizens who are interested in learning about the iPad or iPhone. They want to learn the basics and ways to use their iPad comfortably and confidently.
I started thinking about the courses I could offer. The first course in my iPad for Seniors Series is the basics for the beginner. iPad for Seniors: No Grandchild Needed to Set Up Your iPad covers:
- Choosing an iPad
- Setting up an iPad
- Using gestures (Tap, Swipe, Drag) to navigate an iPad
- Using the Control Center
- Effectively using Widgets
- Personalizing Your iPad
Changing the name of the iPad
Adjusting Date & Time
Choosing an iPad voice
Changing the Wallpaper on the Lock and Home Screen
Adding a Keyboard
- Using Accessibility Features
Text size
Having the iPad read to you
Dictating to the iPad to type words
Having the iPad notify you when the doorbell rings
If this sounds like a course that you, a family member, or a friend could use please join me! I currently have the course on Skillshare. Here's my link that will allow you to sign up for a free month of Skillshare. I will eventually have all my courses on Technique Academy.
Other courses I plan for the iPad for Seniors Series will include organization, communication, productivity, and creativity techniques and ideas. I will share ideas, apps, and techniques. Can’t wait to show you stuff!
During my research, I also discovered that most of the people I interviewed were also interested in another of my passions - Art! I will be creating art courses to share techniques for creating art. I’m so excited!
I created a newsletter, Techniques and Tips, to share upcoming courses, ideas for using an iPad, ideas for creating art, my thoughts on art or technology topics, and resources. Please sign up for Techniques and Tips!
I also created Technique Academy to share courses. I hope that you will join me on this exciting journey!