This episode explores Taking Online Classes for Seniors — how older adults can use their Macs, iPads, and iPhones to keep learning, stay mentally active, and connect socially through online education..

News

Apple Shakeup at MacRumors
https://www.macrumors.com/2025/10/06/apple-leadership-shakeup-impending/

Apple Pocket Sockhttps://www.apple.com/newsroom/2025/11/introducing-iphone-pocket-a-beautiful-way-to-wear-and-carry-iphone/

Step 1: Choose Your Platform

Step 2: Prepare Your Device

• Make sure your Mac or iPad software is up to date.
• Test your camera and microphone before class.
• Use System Settings → Accessibility to adjust text size, colors, or enable VoiceOver.
• For large print or audio transcripts, try Apple’s built-in Speak Screen and Zoom features — https://support.apple.com/guide/mac-help/use-accessibility-features-on-mac-mh35860/mac

Step 3: Set Up Your Learning Space

• Quiet, comfortable space with good lighting.
• Headphones or earbuds can improve sound clarity.
• Use Do Not Disturb or Focus Mode to minimize interruptions.
• Schedule class times in Calendar and set alerts in Reminders.

Step 4: Engage Actively

• Participate in discussion boards and live sessions.
• Take notes in the Notes or Pages apps.
• If recordings are available, replay sections to reinforce learning.
• Connect with classmates via FaceTime, Messages, or email to create your own “study group.”

Step 5: Keep the Momentum

• Finish each class by summarizing what you learned.
• Share your new skills with family or friends—it strengthens retention.
• Plan your next course right away to keep learning fun and continuous.

Resources

•  AARP Virtual Community Center — https://local.aarp.org/virtual-community-center/ 
• OASIS Everywhere — https://www.oasiseverywhere.org/ 
• Senior Planet from AARP — https://seniorplanet.org/ 
• OATS: Older Adults Technology Services – https://www.oats.org/ (associated with Senior Planet).
• Coursera — https://www.coursera.org/ 
• edX — https://www.edx.org/ 
• Masterclass - https://www.masterclass.com/homepage 

• Generations Journal on learning benefits: https://generations.asaging.org/online-learning-critical-elder-well-being/ 
• Frontiers Psychology – Digital learning & older adults: https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/psychology/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1122277/full 
• Senior Site guide: https://seniorsite.org/resource/online-classes-for-seniors-a-guide-to-learning-at-home-2025/ 
• Age Right article: https://ageright.org/2020/01/29/elearning-for-seniors/ 
• MITx: https://mitxonline.mit.edu/
• Khan Academy: https://www.khanacademy.org/
• Crash Course: https://www.youtube.com/@crashcourse
• Meetup: https://www.meetup.com/
• Brilliant: https://brilliant.org/home/
• Osher Lifelong Learning Institute: https://www.osherfoundation.org/index.php 

Next Episode

Join us next Wednesday  November 19th at 9 PM EST on YouTube: https://YouTube.com/@OldMacGang

Email & Website

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