Post by Jenni Pagett, Publicity Officer.

This time my travels took me to Oulton to visit the Computer Courses Group. I expected to be met with loads of technical jargon and a quiet classroom of people with their heads down looking at their laptops. Maybe if I had visited them 15 years ago, I might have been, but today, I wasn’t!

Yes, the room was set out as a classroom but that is where the reality departed from my imagined scene. Group members were chatting to each other and the group leader, discussing issues they have had with their digital technology and exchanging experiences. They had brought their laptops, tablets and phones with them to the session, to be enlightened about what they can do. (Both iPad and Android are covered). The classroom layout is to make the most of the space and so that every member can see the projector screen.

During my visit Roy, group leader, and Robert were demonstrating the features and benefits of Smart TV. They had even brought one with them so that group members could actually see the technology in action. Part of the session today focused on linking your other tech to a smart TV. This is also called mirroring or casting, dependant on your chosen tech brand.

Roy and Robert were able to answer queries from group members and if an issue is common amongst the group, they plan a specific session around that. In this reactive way the group sessions can be tailored to the requirements of the members. They both have backgrounds in IT and are very knowledgeable, however if there is anything that they can’t answer immediately, they will research it to find an answer. All aspects of digital technology are covered, from changing the batteries to using a cloud, from computers to Bluetooth gadgets. They will even give advice on the latest scams that are circulation and how to not get involved in them.

In the short time that I was with the group I learned that technology is not just for youngsters, it’s for everybody. So, if you have a device or devices that you either don’t know how to use, or just use the basic functions, this friendly and informative group may just be for you. One of their latest members described the group as simply “Brilliant”

Although the group is currently called “Computer Courses” they are discussing a change of names to include all technology, so the name may change in the near future to IT or something similar. The group does take a break between April and September, but if you are interested in joining, please contact Roy, the group leader before September, so that numbers can be controlled due to limited space. His contact details are on the website. https://stone.u3asite.uk/u3a_groups/computer-courses/

Membership costs just £50 per year and this allows you to attend as many groups as you like. That equates to less than £1 per week*.

*Some groups may request a contribution towards refreshments.