Smart Phone Workshop for Seniors 50+

Join our free 9-week program designed to help seniors get the most out of their Android or Apple smartphones and tablets.

Start your digital journey with a clear and engaging introduction to the internet and the web.

Weekly Workshops include:

2 February 2026 – Week 1: What is the internet? What is the web?

Topics:

● A simple overview of what the internet is and how it works

● A brief history of its development

● What is the Cloud?

● What is the Web and how websites function

● Search Engines

● Cookies

● Advertising. How does it target you?

● Private session web browsing

9 February 2026 – Week 2: Mobiles and Tablets

This session helps you feel more confident using your smartphone or tablet, whether it’s Android or Apple.

Topics:

● What are apps and how to use them

● Key differences between Android and Apple (iOS) devices

● Updates. Should I do them?

● Using touch screens

● Accessibility - change settings to make touchscreens easier and text larger

● Taking and sharing photos

● Using voice control features like Siri or Google Assistant

● Communicating with SMS, WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger and FaceTime

● Tips for avoiding spam calls and spam messages

16 February 2026 – Week 3: Security

Learn how to protect your personal information and stay secure while using your device. Topics:

● Keeping your device updated and secure

● App Permissions

● Creating and managing strong passwords

● Understanding two-factor authentication (2FA) and passkeys

● Using biometrics like fingerprint or facial recognition

● Tracking the phone’s location

● Spotting scams

23 February 2026 – Week 4: Social Media

Discover how to connect with friends and family through popular social media platforms. Topics:

● Introduction to Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X and more

● Block unwanted content

● Only show posts to groups of select friends

● How do social media platforms make money?

● Do they sell your information?

● Basics of social media marketing

2 March 2026 – Week 5: Online Banking

Access online banking with confidence. T

Topics:

● Contactless Payments (“tapping” with the phone)

● Using the mobile app vs the website on the computer

● Login security

● How to transfer funds and pay bills online

● BPay

● Setting up direct debits and notifications

● Keeping your banking information secure

9 March 2026 – Week 6: AI

Demystify artificial intelligence (AI) and learn how it can help in everyday life.

Topics:

● What is AI and should we be afraid of it?

● Is AI intelligent and do we need it?

● How AI learns

● ChatGPT (and other “chatbots”)

● Practical uses of AI

● Fraud detection / Virtual assistants / Predictive analysis / Medical uses

● Risks, Concerns and Worries

16 March 2026 – Week 7: Online Shopping

Shop smarter and safer online.

Topics:

● Types of sCommerce (online shopping)

● Spotting scam sites / Is online shopping safe?

● Creating accounts on shopping websites

● Safest methods of paying

● Tracking shipping.

23 March 2026 – Week 8: Government Services

Get familiar with essential online services with a 'learn how to' workshop.

Topics:

● myID. What is it? Do I need to use it?

● Create and manage accounts on myGov, My Aged Care, Medicare and Centrelink

● Linking services to your myGov

● Navigate the platforms

● Service NSW.

30 March 2026 – Week 9: Email & Messaging Apps

Master the basics of email communication.

Topics include:

● Preventing spam and managing spam filters

● Email Aliases (for greater security)

● Differences between webmail, desktop “clients” and mobile apps

● Freemail services (Gmail, Outlook, iCloud) vs corporate email

● Comparing email “clients” e.g. Outlook, Microsoft 365 and Mac Mail

● Using attachments and address books

● Understanding how emails flow from one point to another.

● Messaging apps like WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, etc.

For further information please contact Bronwyn McKirdy

0487 244 479

bronwyn.mckirdy@centralcoast.nsw.gov.au