Free
There is no tuition or class fee. The program is offered at no cost to learners, while contributions of time, effort, encouragement, or financial support are welcome when a learner is able.
All classes are online through Microsoft Teams. No in person class location is available. You must download and install the Microsoft Teams app before class. Download Microsoft Teams.
THE CLASSROOM
Beginner Computer Classes for Adults and Older Adults
Free, beginner friendly computer classes for middle aged adults, older adults, retirees, and anyone who wants to learn computer skills from the beginning. Learn at a patient pace with hands on practice and room for questions.
CLASS ESSENTIALS
Simple expectations. Plenty of support.
We keep the requirements straightforward so learners can focus on learning.
Online Through Microsoft Teams
All classes take place online. There is no in person class location. Download and install the Microsoft Teams app before class; it is required for participation.
At Least 6 Weeks
A typical learning session meets once each week for at least six weeks, with each class lasting two hours. Additional time may be provided when hands on work requires it.
Bring Your Laptop
Use a compatible computer and join class through the Microsoft Teams app. Windows laptops are the primary platform, Chromebooks are welcome, and desktops may be used for online classes. Mac specific instruction is limited.
EVENING LEARNING
A place to learn after the day is done.
Classes are offered in the evening to make participation easier for adults who have work, family, or other daytime responsibilities.
The class is not built around how quickly an instructor can finish a lesson. It is built around whether the learner has had enough time to understand and practice the skill.
A typical session is at least six weeks long, meeting one day each week for two hours. Some studies may be completed more quickly, while studies involving substantial hands on practice, repetition, troubleshooting, or individual assistance may take longer.
TWO HOURS TO LEARN
What a class can look like
01
Review and Questions
We begin by revisiting previous skills and answering questions from earlier lessons.
02
New Lesson
The instructor introduces and demonstrates a new computer skill step by step.
03
Hands On Practice
Learners practice the new skill on their own computers while the instructor provides guidance.
04
Individual Assistance
Time is available for troubleshooting, repetition, and questions that are specific to each learner.
05
Review
We close by reviewing what was learned and identifying useful practice before the next class.
YOUR CONTRIBUTION
Free does not mean without value.
Technology for Life does not charge tuition. Learners are encouraged to contribute in ways that are meaningful and possible for them. Your contribution may be your time, attention, willingness to practice, patience, encouragement, or ability to help someone else. If you are able and would like to provide a financial donation, that is welcome too.
No learner is required to donate money or volunteer in order to participate. The most important contribution is showing up, being willing to learn, and making the most of the opportunity.
BEFORE YOU ARRIVE
Bring the laptop you use.
Windows laptops are the primary platform for Phase One instruction. Chromebooks are also welcome, especially for learning web browsing, Google tools, email, online safety, and other browser based skills. Mac laptops may be used, but Mac specific instruction is currently limited. All classes are online through Microsoft Teams. No physical class location is available. Download and install the Microsoft Teams app before class. A desktop computer may be used to join online instruction.
Windows laptopPrimary supported platform for Phase One instruction.
ChromebookSupported for ChromeOS, Google, browser, email, and other web based skills.
Mac laptopGeneral concepts may transfer, but Mac specific instruction is currently limited.
Desktop computerMay be used to join online class through Microsoft Teams.
Microsoft TeamsRequired. Download and install the app before class and have reliable internet access.
Bring your questionsAnything you are unsure about is welcome.
Bring your patienceLearning takes practice.
Bring your curiosityYou are here to discover what you can do.
REMEMBER
You do not have to know everything before you begin.
You only need to be willing to learn. We will start where you are and build from there.
Learn About Registration