The Senior Tech Class is making waves, garnering support and media coverage from esteemed outlets such as Channel 2, Channel 4, the Detroit News, the Pam Perry Podcast, and the University of Detroit Mercy. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to PNC Bank and Henry Ford Health Systems for their unwavering support in our mission to empower older adults with the digital skills they need to thrive in today’s fast-paced world.
These classes are a beacon of hope, aiming to bridge the technology divide by offering accessible and engaging learning experiences. Participants focus on essential skills such as smartphone usage, computer basics, and online safety, all designed to inspire and uplift. By equipping our seniors with these invaluable skills, we enable them to stay connected with loved ones, explore new passions online, and safeguard themselves from digital threats.
Join us in celebrating this transformative journey as we work together to create a more connected and inclusive world for everyone. Let’s inspire one another and ensure that no one is left behind in this digital age!
The Senior Tech Class is a free eight-week program designed to equip seniors with essential digital skills. This initiative fosters a supportive environment for participants to engage in group discussions on various topics.
The program runs from Saturday, February 15, to Saturday, April 19, at the University of Detroit Mercy, specifically in Room 138 of the Finance Building. Classes will begin promptly at 12:00 noon every Saturday. The Graduation Lunch is scheduled for April 19 at the Northwest Activities Center, Room 2, also at 12:00 noon, with catering provided by Chef Greg's Soul -N- The Wall.
The Senior Tech Class is led by Clayton Cortez, a dedicated multimedia journalist and producer. These sessions are designed to make learning both informative and enjoyable. Our goal is to help seniors develop and strengthen their skills to navigate today’s digital world with ease and confidence, ultimately fostering their independence. Welcome to the Winter 2025 session of the Senior Tech Class! Everyone is welcome!
WINTER SESSION
Lesson 1: Welcome
This course introduced seniors to the technology class and discussed their learning interests. Following this, we reviewed the syllabus and covered the basics of smartphones.
Lesson 2: Smartphones
This course provided seniors with practical experience in navigating their smartphones, including all of its applications, functions, and features.
Lesson 3: Pop Quiz
This course offered seniors a collaborative open-book pop quiz to assess their understanding of the material covered.
Lesson 4: Intro to Computers
This course provided a detailed overview of the key components that comprise a computer system. We explored the following essential parts: monitor, CPU, keyboard, mouse, and speaker.
Lesson 5: Understanding the Keyboard
This course provided seniors with a comprehensive introduction to keyboard fundamentals, fostering digital literacy that is crucial for accessing essential services, nurturing social connections, and promoting independence in our ever-evolving digital landscape.
Lesson 6: Basic internet and safety tips
This course on Internet safety is essential for seniors as it plays a vital role in safeguarding individuals from various cyber threats, including identity theft, malware, and online predators. By equipping participants with the knowledge to navigate the digital landscape securely, it also ensures their privacy and helps prevent exposure to harmful content.
Lesson 7 - Navigating the Internet
This comprehensive course on Internet browsing has equipped seniors with the skills necessary to take control of their health, uncover essential information, and conduct business effortlessly. It also enables them to plan exciting travel adventures, access important records, stay updated on current events, connect meaningfully with loved ones, and pursue their hobbies and entertainment passions.
Lesson 8 - Hands on Navigating the Internet
This comprehensive course offers seniors a unique opportunity to engage in hands-on practice with search engines, empowering them to uncover information across a diverse array of topics.
A special thank you to Henry Ford Health Systems for their commitment to educating seniors on health apps, software, and technology.
Graduation Luncheon
The graduation luncheon is a heartfelt occasion dedicated to honoring the outstanding accomplishments of our senior graduates who have triumphantly completed the Senior Tech Class 8-week program. This special event brings together the warmth and encouragement of family and friends, creating a supportive atmosphere for our graduates.
We extend our sincere gratitude to PNC Bank for their invaluable support in educating our seniors about mobile banking. Their commitment to empowering our community is truly commendable.
Congratulations to the Winter Class of 2025 on successfully completing the Senior Tech Class 8-week program! Bravo! Your hard work and dedication have truly paid off. This achievement is a significant milestone, and we are proud of your accomplishments. Keep pushing forward, and remember that the skills you've gained will serve you well in the future. Undefined possibilities await you! ~ Clayton Cortez Smith, Jr.
Senior Tech Class - Winter Session 2025 - Program & Class Syllabus
Sat. Feb 15, 2025 UofD, Finance Room 138 12 PM Welcome & Introduction to Smart Phones
Sat. Feb 22, 2025 UofD, Finance Room 138 12 PM How to store numbers & placing calls
Sat. March 8, 2025 UofD, Finance Room 138 12 PM Introduction to basic of computers & features
Sat. March 15, 2025 UofD, Finance Room 138 12 PM Introduction to computer - Part 2
Sat. March 22, 2025 UofD, Finance Room 138 12 PM How to use the keyboard
Sat. March 29, 2025 UofD, Finance Room 138 12 PM Basic internet and safety tips
Sat. April 5, 2025 UofD, Briggs Building 101 12 PM Navigating the Internet
Sat. April 12, 2025 UofD, Finance Room 138 12 PM Hands on Navigating the Internet
***4/12/25 - GUEST SPEAKER: Henry Ford Health Systems ****
Sat. April 19, 2025 Northwest Activities (Room 2) 12PM Graduation Lunch
***4/19/25 - GUEST SPEAKER: PNC BANK ****
Sat. April 26, 2025 Field Trip: Tuskegee Airmen Museum 12PM
Coleman A. Young International Airport 11499 Conner Detroit, MI 48213
Information, class topics and syllabus are subject to change, updated or altered.