Course Overview
Take the first step towards becoming more confident with your smartphone in our Get to Know Your Smartphone workshop.
Smartphones have become an important part of everyday life. They can help you stay connected with family and friends, access information online, take photos, check the weather, navigate unfamiliar places and much more. However, for many people, getting started can feel overwhelming.
This practical workshop is designed to help seniors understand the basics of using a smartphone in a relaxed and supportive environment. Whether you’re using an iPhone or Android device, you’ll learn how smartphones work and gain confidence using the features you need most.
You’ll explore common smartphone functions, learn how to navigate using the touchscreen and discover how apps can help with everyday tasks. Through guided demonstrations and hands-on activities, you’ll build practical skills that make your smartphone easier and more enjoyable to use.
This workshop is ideal for beginners, people upgrading from a basic mobile phone, or anyone who wants to better understand the smartphone they already own.
Macquarie Community College operates from a range of venues across Northern and Western Sydney. We have campuses in Blacktown, Carlingford, Chatswood, Epping, Mt Druitt, Richmond and Ryde. Enrol now!
What you will learn
Course outline
Topics include:
- What a smartphone is and how it can be used in everyday life
- Understanding key smartphone features and functions
- Identifying the touchscreen, buttons, cameras and charging port
- How to turn your phone on and off and unlock it securely
- Basic touchscreen skills including tapping, swiping and scrolling
- How to navigate the home screen
- How to find, open and switch between apps
- Using essential apps such as Messages, Contacts and Settings
- Adjusting brightness, text size and volume settings
- Tips for making your smartphone easier to see, hear and use
A smartphone can:
- Make voice and video calls
- Send messages and emails
- Take photos and videos
- Access the internet and browse websites
- Use apps such as maps, banking, weather and entertainment services
- Help you stay organised with contacts, calendars and reminders
Course outcome
After this workshop, you should feel more confident using your smartphone and exploring its features.
By the end of this course, you will:
- Understand what a smartphone is and how it works
- Use touchscreen gestures confidently to navigate your device
- Open and use everyday apps
- Make and receive calls and send messages
- Adjust smartphone settings to suit your needs
- Feel more comfortable using your smartphone independently
- Build confidence to continue learning new smartphone skills
What you need to know
Entry requirements
This level is for the complete beginner and assumes no prior knowledge.
Prerequisite: Essential
Participants must be over 60 years old. Tech Savvy Seniors is an initiative of the NSW Ageing Strategy and is funded in partnership between the NSW Government and Telstra.
What you need to provide
- Notepad and pen
- An internet-connected smartphone
- An existing Apple Account (Apple ID) if using an iPhone
- An existing Google Account if using an Android smartphone
Other information
To get the most from your smartphone, it is recommended that you have a mobile plan that includes data. While not essential for the workshop, mobile data allows you to access the internet, download apps, use maps and access online services when Wi-Fi is unavailable.
Participants are encouraged to bring their own smartphone so they can practise skills directly on their device during the workshop.
About your trainer
David has extensive experience helping seniors build practical digital skills and confidence using computers, smartphones and online technologies. His patient and supportive teaching style helps learners feel comfortable exploring technology and asking questions in a relaxed environment.