Computers & Technology   

ChatGPT and other generative AI (Artificial Intelligence) tools are becoming household names. But what exactly are they, and what are they used for? Did you know these chatbots can create images from word prompts, write letters, explain complex topics, write jokes, and much more? How do you access and use these powerful tools? For many, AI can be intimidating. However, it can also be an extremely useful tool. This workshop is designed to be beginner-friendly and will cover how generative AI works and the basics of ChatGPT and other AI tools. It will also provide practical examples of how you might use AI in your daily life.

Curious about Bitcoin but not sure where to start? In this engaging and beginner-friendly two-hour session, you'll uncover the fascinating story behind Bitcoin and the blockchain technology that powers it. Learn how digital money works, why Bitcoin was created, and what makes blockchain one of the most talked-about innovations of the 21st century. We'll break down key concepts, including decentralization, digital wallets, transactions, mining, and security, in clear, easy-to-understand terms. You'll also explore real-world applications of blockchain that go far beyond cryptocurrency, from finance and supply chains to digital identity and beyond.

Whether Bitcoin becomes the future of money or not, it is undeniably a technological breakthrough worth understanding. This course will give you the knowledge and confidence to navigate the rapidly evolving world of digital assets.

We hear more and more about cybersecurity and the risks of identity theft these days. Learn ways to protect yourself and your data, so you can use social media websites like Instagram, Facebook, and X (Twitter) without giving up your privacy. You'll learn how to minimize exposing your personal information on the Internet and how to control privacy and tracking of your smartphone. This class will also review some useful, secure, and simple password strategies and give an overview of the password managers LastPass (for PCs and Android phones) and the Passwords app (on Apple devices).

This instructor will be offering a FREE class at our Open House on September 14.  To be eligible for a free class during our Open House, you may only register for a class with an instructor you have not taken before.  REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED. Click here for more info and to register.

Interested in World of Warcraft but unsure where to start? This live online course is designed for those who are new to the game or returning after time away. Using the current game expansion as a guide, students will learn how to set up the game, create a character and class that fits their playstyle, understand core gameplay systems, and navigate the modern World of Warcraft experience with confidence.

Topics include leveling, user interface setup, add-ons, communication tools such as Discord, basic group content, online gaming culture, and practical strategies and resources to help you progress efficiently without feeling overwhelmed. The course will also introduce students to the social and collaborative aspects of the game, including optional participation in a beginner-friendly in-game guild community.

No prior experience is required. Students may use existing accounts or begin using a free trial account during the class.

Bring your fully charged Apple iPhone (iPhone 11 or newer) or iPad to class and discover how to make the most of its many useful features. You'll learn the basics of navigating your device, customizing settings, sending and receiving email, taking and sharing photos and videos, and troubleshooting common issues. Time permitting, the instructor will also address additional topics and questions requested by participants.

Bring your fully charged Apple iPhone (iPhone 11 or newer) or iPad to class and discover how to make the most of its many useful features. You'll learn the basics of navigating your device, customizing settings, sending and receiving email, taking and sharing photos and videos, and troubleshooting common issues. Time permitting, the instructor will also address additional topics and questions requested by participants.

There are many valuable, simple tricks and tips that do not require an advanced understanding of iPhones, iPads, or Android phones to use them more effectively.  In this class, we will explore ten easy yet useful tricks that will help you enjoy using your devices while staying safe on the internet.  From better password management to dealing with a “stuck” or slow computer or iPhone, we will discuss different ways to use our personal computers and devices more intelligently. 

This instructor will be offering a FREE class at our Open House on September 14.  To be eligible for a free class during our Open House, you may only register for a class with an instructor you have not taken before.  REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED. Click here for more info and to register.

Social media changes constantly, and many professional adults feel overwhelmed trying to understand which platforms matter, how they differ, and what they are best used for. This class provides a practical, approachable overview of today’s major social media platforms, including Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, LinkedIn, X/Twitter, Reddit, YouTube, and others, with a focus on audience demographics, communication styles, professional versus personal use, content trends, privacy considerations, and digital culture.

The session is designed for those who want a clearer understanding of the modern social media landscape for professional, educational, or business purposes. Discussion will also include how social media influences branding, networking, online communities, and communication.

When working with social media, many people often ask:

“How do I make my profile stand out?”

“How do I make posts that get engagement?”

“How do I gain followers?”

Instagram has become a powerful and affordable platform to tackle these issues faced by small businesses and individuals alike. In this class, Liz breaks down the answers to these questions in an easy-to-understand format and a friendly, welcoming atmosphere. You’ll learn practical tips and proven strategies that you can start using immediately. This class is perfect for local business owners, artists, start-ups, nonprofits, real estate agents, and anyone who wants to learn how to use Instagram more effectively.

You will learn to:

• Set up your profile
• Connect and engage with your clients by creating content they want
• Gain followers organically
• Use hashtags effectively

Your Apple Watch is a significant extension of your iPhone and brings you new convenience, health, fitness, entertainment, and safety features. We will cover pairing your watch with your iPhone, answering and making phone calls, sending and receiving texts, making emergency calls, changing watch faces, viewing your heart rate, adding apps, and more. Plus questions from the class as time allows. 

Whether you're cutting the cord (discontinuing cable service to save money) or simply adding more variety to your TV viewing, the future of viewing is streaming media. Learn the pros and cons of "cord cutting," the various streaming media services, options for hardware products, and steps for basic installation and setup.

 

Building upon the foundational knowledge from our initial “Demystifying Chat GPT and AI” workshop, this session delves into the latest advancements in generative AI. Participants will explore new tools and applications that have emerged, including AI-driven music creation, video generation, and enhanced image capabilities. We'll also discuss recent developments in AI integration across various industries, such as healthcare, education, and entertainment. Through practical demonstrations, attendees will gain insights into how these cutting-edge AI technologies can be applied to everyday tasks and professional projects. This workshop is designed to keep you abreast of the rapidly evolving AI landscape and equip you with the skills to leverage these innovations effectively. New students are welcome, and we will review some concepts from the first workshop at the beginning of the class.

Your Apple Watch is a significant extension of your iPhone and brings you new convenience, health, fitness, entertainment, and safety features. We will cover pairing your watch with your iPhone, answering and making phone calls, sending and receiving texts, making emergency calls, changing watch faces, viewing your heart rate, adding apps, and more. Plus questions from the class as time allows. 

Unlock your creativity with Canva, the user-friendly design tool that is changing the way we create digital designs. This course is designed for beginners and will explore how to create an account with Canva and use its simple tools to create invitations, posters, fliers, and anything else you can dream up.