Computer and smartphone classes

Three levels that build on each other, plus short specialty classes on the topics people ask about most. Every class is taught with patience, and no question is too basic.

The three levels

Most people start at Level 1. If you already use email and apps comfortably, Level 2 may be a better fit.

Level 1

Computer & Smartphone Basics

For total beginners. No experience needed.

Class length: 2 to 4 hours of instruction, followed by 1 to 2 hours of one-on-one help, instruction, and tech support.

What you'll learn:

  • How computers, phones, and tablets work: hardware, software, memory, and storage
  • Smartphone basics: the touchscreen, home screen, and finding apps
  • Calls, contacts, text messages, and photos
  • Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and making your phone easier to see and use
  • Using a Windows computer: the mouse, keyboard, Start menu, and windows
  • Files and folders: saving, finding, and downloading
  • Browsing and searching the web, and reading web addresses
  • Sending and receiving email safely
  • Spotting scams, phishing, and fake tech support
  • Passwords, updates, and staying safe on public Wi-Fi
  • Simple troubleshooting steps when something goes wrong

Included: Take-home materials, cheat sheets, certificate of completion, free snacks and drinks.

Includes a $50 coupon toward a tech support house call

Level 2

Technology Confidence & Power User

For people comfortable with the basics who want to go further.

Class length: 1 to 3 hours of instruction, followed by 1 to 2 hours of one-on-one help, instruction, and tech support.

What you'll learn:

  • Keyboard shortcuts, smarter searching, and getting more from your browser
  • Taming notifications and using accessibility features
  • Cloud storage (Google Drive, iCloud, OneDrive) and the 3-2-1 backup rule
  • Organizing, finding, and backing up your files and photos
  • Phone power skills: app permissions, battery, storage, and Find My Device
  • Judging websites and news, and shopping and banking online safely
  • Phishing, ransomware, and social engineering explained
  • Two-factor sign-in, passkeys, and password managers
  • Using AI chatbots well: better prompts, everyday uses, and privacy
  • Spotting AI mistakes, deepfakes, and AI-powered scams
  • Troubleshooting like a technician, and when not to factory reset

Included: Take-home materials, cheat sheets, certificate of completion, free snacks and drinks.

Level 3

Digital Independence & Advanced Skills

For people ready to handle their own technology with confidence.

Class length: 1 to 3 hours of instruction, followed by 1 to 2 hours of one-on-one help, instruction, and tech support.

What you'll learn:

  • How your home network works: Wi-Fi fixes, guest networks, and router security
  • Smart home devices and keeping them private and secure
  • Choosing a new computer or phone: new, refurbished, or used
  • Setting up a new device and moving everything over from the old one
  • Smart TVs, streaming subscriptions, and casting from your phone
  • Organizing, editing, sharing, and printing a lifetime of photos and videos
  • AI as a daily assistant: custom instructions, calendars, and voice assistants
  • Digital estate planning: legacy contacts and a "digital will"
  • Tech basics for small businesses and side jobs
  • Preventative maintenance, and when to repair or replace
  • Building your own one-page personal tech plan

Included: Take-home materials, cheat sheets, certificate of completion, free snacks and drinks.

Specialty classes

About 1 to 2 hours, focused on a single topic. Take them any time, in any order: in a classroom with others, or one-on-one at your home as a house call.

  • AI for Everyday Life

    Use AI assistants for letters, questions, recipes, and more, and learn where they fall short.

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  • Cybersecurity & Scam Prevention

    Recognize scam calls, texts, emails, and pop-ups, and lock down your accounts.

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  • Digital Photos & Cloud Backup

    Organize a lifetime of photos and make sure they're never lost.

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  • iPhone Masterclass

    Get more out of your iPhone: settings, features, and time-saving tricks.

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  • Android Masterclass

    Get more out of your Android phone: settings, features, and time-saving tricks.

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  • Email Masterclass

    Tame your inbox, handle attachments, and cut down on junk mail.

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  • Safe Online Shopping & Banking

    Shop, pay bills, and bank online with confidence.

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  • Microsoft Word & Office

    Write letters and documents, and learn the free alternatives: LibreOffice and OpenOffice.

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  • Internet & Networking

    Understand your internet, Wi-Fi, and home network, and fix common connection problems.

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  • Smart TVs & Streaming

    Set up your smart TV and streaming apps, and keep your subscriptions under control.

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Private lessons at your home

Any class can be taught one-on-one in your own home, on your own devices. Choose “Private lesson at my home” when you sign up.

Want help with something that isn't a class? We also offer one-on-one tech help for whatever you're working on.

Every class includes

  • A small group, so there's time for your questions
  • Hands-on practice on your own phone, tablet, or computer
  • Take-home materials to review later
  • Cheat sheets for the most useful steps and shortcuts
  • A certificate of completion
  • Free snacks and drinks
  • Level classes end with one-on-one help, instruction, and tech support
  • Level 1 also includes a $50 coupon toward a tech support house call

Common questions

When and where are classes held?
Classes are scheduled once enough people in an area sign up. Join the waitlist and we'll contact you with the date, time, and place before anything is final.
When do I pay?
Nothing is due when you join the waitlist. You'll pay once your class is scheduled and you've confirmed you can make it.
Which level should I start with?
If you're unsure, start with Level 1, or choose “Not sure yet” on the sign-up form and we'll help you decide.
Should I bring my own device?
Yes, if you have one. You'll learn on the phone, tablet, or computer you actually use every day. If you don't have one yet, mention it when you sign up.
Can I sign up with my spouse or a friend?
Of course. Have each person sign up, or add their name in the notes box on your form.
I'm nervous about technology. Is this class for me?
Yes. These classes were made for people who feel behind. You won't be rushed, and nobody will make you feel silly for asking.
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