“You’re Never Too Old To Learn”: How a tech-savvy pair broke societal stereotypes to evolve their generation
TechCulture “You’re never too old to learn” is the mantra of TechTutorUSA.com’s Rich and Laurie, as they teach baby boomers and seniors how to use their iPhone and iPad devices (Sorry, but no Android devices!).
Their typical (group) teaching and learning sessions begin with the ice-breaker question, “What would you like to learn?” That way, they know where to focus, so everyone gets answers to their individual questions.
Many learners just come for general information and to establish a comfort level.
Attendees typically reply to the ice-breaker question with responses such as:
- How do I turn it on (with a little tongue in cheek?)
- How do I take pictures and get on the internet?
- How do I use APPS and send/return a text message?
After the ice-breaker questions are answered, the rest of the learning time delves into matters such as:
- How to assure the latest updates are download on their device.
- How to extend battery life.
- How to get online and use GOOGLE and YOUTUBE that open a universe of interesting information and timeless entertainment.
- How to use SIRI instead of all the typing on that tiny keyboard.
GOOGLE is the Encyclopedia of their time, and most seniors don’t know that it’s at their fingertips or how to use it. They are ecstatic when they are introduced to it and shown how to use it.
YOUTUBE is a goldmine resource today for almost everything that relates to the lives and times of seniors. Giving them the knowledge and ability to find and watch the likes of Amos and Andy, Laurel and Hardy, Buster Keaton, Charlie Chaplin, Elvis Presley, the BIG bands and popular movies of their times, actually piques their interest and improves their quality of life.
The CAMERA on these devices is extraordinary and often replace traditional SLR type cameras. Many seniors are content with learning how to take and send pictures to loved ones, who don’t always have or take the time for personal visits.
iHEART RADIO is another revelation that gives seniors access to hundreds of local radio stations across-the-country. So if they have relocated to Florida from another place, they can listen to their hometown radio station.
Not to mention PODCASTS that open up another world of interesting information and entertainment they can listen to.
Kids and grandkids can show their aging loved ones how to use these devices, but they can’t teach them. Richard and Laurie have both been instructors for decades in their respective personal lives, so teaching comes naturally to them.
Conducted by seniors, for seniors, is the magic formula behind this successful training/learning experience that is based on empathy and paced at a speed no faster than the slowest learner.
“We make it fun and have a ball doing this – says Richard Erschik, founder of TechTutorUSA. “And we know they have fun learning about the technology that has crept up in their lives and intimidated most of them.”
After the training session, attendees are given a resource they can reference for everything iPhone and iPad related to, allowing them to continue their education on their own.
This training makes an excellent personalized gift.
In a neighborhood community, this training can be a subject of a purposeful and productive meeting.
In a company or corporate environment, this training could be something management offers to employees as a value-added means of continuing education and job enrichment.
For additional information reference: www.TechTutorUSA.com
Contact: Richard Erschik – Phone/Text +1.630.642.6500
E-mail: [email protected]
