Š Krishnapriya dutta gupta
Grey Geeks GR620 Visual Thinking Academy of Art University Summer 2015 Instructor_ David Hake
Connect easy_
GREY GEEKS GR 620 VISUAL THINKING
Computer-based communication, can have a positive impact on elderly people and society. Some of the rewards are a higher level and sense of indepency, the ability to retrieve and share information, and the possibility to engage in different social communities, which in turn results in an increase in life satisfaction.
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BRAND RESEARCH Framework Persona Brand Competition Creative Brief
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BRAND DEVELOPMENT Visual Verve Logo Development Logo Competition Final Logo + Identity
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DELIVERABLES Posters Product // Welcome Pack Narrative // Tech Tutorials Website + App
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TOPIC DEVELOPMENT Topic Investigation Shortlisted Topics Brainstorming
GREY GEEKS
CONTENTS
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TOPIC DEVELOPMENT Topic Investigation Shortlisted Topics Brainstorming
Topic Investigation_
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The topic selection process started with writing down different ideas in the sketch book. By looking within and writing down list of 10 things that I like, 10 things I don’t, 10 problems in the world I want solved, 10 problems in the world that will never be solved, and 10 problem I think would be solved if communication was better. Out of these fifty topics, I shortlisted five topics to further investigate.
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Shortlisted Topics_
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01 TECHNOLOGY AND SENIORS 47 percent of seniors do not actively engage with the Internet. We live in world where modern technology is becoming more and more important every day, but here’s the thing—not everyone seems to agree with this fact. New things can be confusing and even intimidating to seniors. My idea is to make their experience simpler and approachable. It is also a great opportunity of helping senior who become victims of depression due to loneliness.
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PROMOTE IDLE THINKING Studies show that people would rather do something—anything—than be alone with their thoughts. But it’s through reflection, daydreaming, and introspection that we make sense of information and experiences and come up with new insight and ideas. I plan to resolve this approach by introducing and promoting the concept of Idle thinking in organization and private spaces through various print and digital tools.
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ADDRESSING PLAY DEFICIT
EARTHQUAKE READY SOCIETY
The Play Deficit is the very real decline in play in our society. Children are playing less than any previous generation. Play is the primary means by which children develop, and lack of play is causing them profound physical, intellectual, social, and emotional harm.
Unlike hurricanes and some other natural hazards, earthquakes strike suddenly and without warning. Preparing for earthquakes involves learning what people should do before, during, and after earthquakes; and doing or preparing to do those things now, before the next quake.
To create awareness among parents to encourage play-time for children by using graphic design to address this problem. And communicate to ensure that every child in America has a great place to play within walking distance.
San Francisco is on a plate that it is near the boundary of two plates, namely the Pacific plate and the North American plate. San Francisco has frequent earthquakes because of several local fault systems.
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An initiative to learn and practice what to do during an earthquake, and prepare an earthquake ready society with the help of graphic design. GR 620 VISUAL THINKING
PROMOTE YOGA FOR CHILDREN Children face ever-increasing challenges, there are greater levels of stress and obesity. They encounter emotional, social, and physical challenges or conflicts, a dedicated and intentional yoga practice that includes breathing techniques, behavioral guidelines, and physical postures can be incredibly valuable for them in their early years. An initiative to help kids & teens confront these challenges by increasing their self-awareness, concentration levels and physical activity through yoga.
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Brainstorming_
MIND MAPPING I starting exploring my chosen topic of Seniors and Technology by creating brainstorming wall. During this process I divided my topic into four quadrant. This helped to narrow down my final direction.
Independent + Ease of Use
Ease of Use + Dependent
Independent + Learning Curve
Learning Curve + Dependent
Community for adults Self taught / driven Social Basic knowledge Sharing experience Interested Guidance Civic engagement Connected Entertained Facilitate tools One touch Friendly Online shopping Risks Explore Inspiration Workshops Simple
Covers only basics Costly Courtesy expected Assisted learning Supported Clueless At home set-up Limitations Minimum flexibility High maintenance Helpful Affordable Convenient Ignorance Safer option
Video tutorials Enormous difference Organization / NGO Networking Aspiration Motivated Financial planning Goals Thrive Long term Empower Group learning Organize / planning Testimonials Reach the world Research
Intimidating Conservative Tech Complicated Patience Assistance required Technophobic Saving Time consuming Tech courses Frustration Family support Tech theme centers Depression Flexible
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BRAND RESEARCH Framework Persona Brand Competition Creative Brief
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What can I do to make technology less intimidating for senior citizens living in San Francisco? 13
Framework_
GREY GEEKS
Brand Name: Grey Geek Category: Service
Potential Names: Re: Connect To reconnect with
Location: San Francisco
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munity and new age
Purpose: Grey Geeks is committed to the principle that older adults possess limitless potential to develop as individuals, to support their families and communities, and to change the world. We strive in all our work to harness this energy and to enable seniors to shape their own destinies.
To connect, equip, or
Scope: The increasing percentage of elderly people in most countries. Many seniors are seeking resources and training to get up to speed.
‘Grey’ stands for the grey
Competition & Inspiration: OATS, Mentor Up, Senior Planet, Senior Net, Cyber Senior General Information: Grey Geeks wants to achieve the following_ Motivate and empower the senior adults, to help them get up to speed with the generational divide. To spread awareness about relevance of technology among older generations. Encourage other age-groups to contribute in assisting elderly thrive and ease into this new age.
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family, aspirations, comvia technology. Wire_up install something. To cause someone to become stimulated, excited, or alert. Grey Geeks population/ seniors adults/ people above 65 years. ‘Geeks’ stands for technology enthusiast.
The audience for this brand can be categorized in three broad groups_ Tech-Novice Tech-Savvy Retired Recluse
GR 620 VISUAL THINKING
Who are we talking to?
GREY GEEKS
Persona_
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TechNovice
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Tech-Novice is a person who lacks technical training. In a world where smart-phones, laptops and social media make up a large part of daily life, it’s easy for older adults to feel left behind. Even those who own devices don’t always know how to use them. For many senior technology novices, learning how to use a computer is very exciting, but it also may be a little intimidating. Own devices don’t always know how to use them. For many senior technology novices, learning how to use a computer is very exciting, but it also may be a little intimidating.
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Age: 72 yrs
GREY GEEKS
Margaret
She is a sharp woman who keeps her mind active by solving the crossword puzzle in the daily newspaper. Her age is nothing but a number to her, and she continues to learn and grow as a person.
Ethnicity: American Occupation: Retired teacher Marital Status: Married Family: 2 daughters, 5 grandchildren Residence: Senior living apartments, San Francisco Hobbies: Baking, gardening, learning new things to keep herself busy, reading, connecting with family. Gadgets used: phone, Tablet
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TechSavvy
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Tech-Savvy are well informed about or proficient in the use of modern technology. Through this brand, I hope to be able to motivate young tech-savvy enough in helping their grand parents, aunts, elderly neighbors, stay connected and adjust to the many challenges they face in today’s changing world.
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Age: 17 yrs
GREY GEEKS
Yifan
The skills he has–in particular his technology skills–are skills the older generation wants to learn to get out, connect and avoid being left behind.
Ethnicity: Asian American Occupation: Tech Student City: San Francisco Hobbies: Digital Illustration, Online Gaming, social networking, Video-editing. Gadgets used: Mac Book, Wacom Tablet, Smartphone, Digital Camera, X-Box 360 Facebook Friends: 240
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Retired Recluse
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Retired Recluse are people who live a solitary life and tends to avoid other people. Through this brand, I hope to be able to motivate this section of society who are victims of depression and rejection. I hope this brand succeeds in achieving decreased feeling of loneliness by using e-mail and a slower decrease of cognitive abilities by playing specific computer games.
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Computer-based communication might help him with a chance to participate in a wider part of society, making it possible to connect with people that are either similar in experience and interest or diverse.
Age: 75 yrs
GREY GEEKS
Michael
He feels computers (and the Internet) are not meant for his use or that it is relevant to him.
Ethnicity: American Occupation: Rtd. City: San Francisco Marital Status: Divorced Hobbies: Reading, long walks, watching television
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Brand Competition_
Connecting for Good is a nonprofit organization that has been bridging the Digital Divide .The facility at 730 Nebraska is operated by the Kansas City Kansas Housing Authority and is for low income seniors and disabled individuals.
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Senior Planet is a community of older adults who are using technology to learn and live a new, engaged aging—with attitude. The Exploration Center provides opportunities to learn about technology, attend social and cultural events, and engage in individual and group projects that use technology to enhance health, finances, social connections and lifelong learning.
Mentor Up is all about young people helping older adults stay connected and adjust to the many challenges they face in today’s changing world. Mentor Up is a new way to make a difference from AARP Foundation.
SeniorNet is a nonprofit organization of computer-using adults, age 50 and older. It’s mission is to provide older adults (the undeserved) education for and access to computer technologies to enhance their lives and enable them to share their knowledge and wisdom.
Cyber-Seniors is more than a film, it’s a movement! The ‘Cyber-Seniors–Connecting Generations’ campaign aims to promote intergenerational connections. It’s goal is to engage youth mentors in bridging the technology gap by empowering older adults to use technology to expand their social and physical worlds.
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OATS is a social impact organization that builds sustainable new systems to change the way we age. Oats partner with government agencies, community-based organizations, national advocacy groups, and major corporations to engineer solutions that put technology in the hands of older adults to achieve meaningful outcomes.
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Creative Brief_
BACKGROUND Computer technology is embedded in our Western society in a way that the majority of people seem to forget that it is a relatively new development. The mainstream of this society has quickly adopted computer technology as part of their daily life, and in doing so opened up to all the possibilities this technology has to offer. The ever growing group of elderly people (age 60 and older) in our society, which will grow from being 20 per cent of the population in developed countries to being 32 % by 2050, seems to have been forgotten in this matter. According to PEW’s Internet and American Life Project, 98 % of 18-29 year-olds use the Internet. In contrast, only 56% of 65+ adults go online. On top of that, depression affects more than 6.5 million of the 35 million Americans who are 65 or older, as per a study conducted by the National Alliance on Mental Illness. One way to combat that latter figure? Enable senior citizens to stay in touch with family and friends via technology. Computer-based communication, can have a positive impact elderly people and society. Some of the rewards are a higher level and sense of indepency, the ability to retrieve and share information, and the possibility to engage in different social communities, which in turn results in an increase in life satisfaction. Grey Geeks is a social impact organization that aims to change the way we age. We are design thinkers, constantly testing new ideas and looking for leverage points where our work can help seniors use technology to improve their health, finances, social engagement, learning and creative expression. Grey Geeks is located in San Francisco, and also partner with government agencies, community-based organizations, national advocacy groups, and major corporations to engineer solutions that put technology in the hands of older adults to achieve meaningful outcomes.
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Grey Geeks see technology as a means to accomplish powerful outcomes, not as an end in itself. We teach seniors how to use mainstream devices and applications that are popular among all age groups in order to promote integration and relevance. Grey Geeks uses technology to spread awareness, connect age-groups, organize events, simplify technology and have fun! Grey Geeks works with organizations to develop programs, tools to empower older adults ease into technology.
STAKEHOLDERS Government agencies, Community-based organizations, and IT profesionals (companies).
Strength_ Our brand is committed to the principle that older adults possess limitless
MESSAGES AND DRIVERS Motivate and empower the senior adults, to help them get up to speed with the generational divide. To spread awareness about relevance of technology among older generations.
potential to develop as individuals, to support their families and communities, and to change the world. We strive in all our work to harness this energy and to enable seniors to shape their own destinies. Weaknesses_ Elderly people in general do not feel that computers (and the Internet) are meant for their use or that it is relevant to
GREY GEEKS
Online participation of elderly people is not only beneficiary to these people, but also to the society. Elderly people have a vast amount of knowledge and experience in life that they can share by using this technology, by being involved in for example online communities. An issue that seems to be underrated and under researched is the business perspective of computer use of the elderly. This issue, however, can be of crucial importance in getting a wider audience to see the importance of the topic, as economic profitability could be a major reason for IT companies to steer technology in a direction that provides access to computing for the elderly.
them. Next to physical, cognitive and social
DELIVERABLES
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Narrative_ Guide Book Series + CD A detailed three books covering basics of technology from computer till social networking. A self help, simple to follow, simple to carry book series that can empower senior adults to to get connected. Service_ Website/App Besides introducing the organization, team and objectives the website aims to provides practice tutorials for tech novices. It also promotes the brand merchandise. The App is a solution for senior adults to easily stay connected with any smart phone of their choice.
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Product_ Membership Kit
number of other factors hold elderly people from actively using computers. Some are interlinked, others hard to define. Opportunities_ The increasing percentage of elderly people in most countries. Many seniors are seeking resources and training to get up to speed. Threats_ There are organizations, softwares and assisted
Grey Geeks Club membership is a one-time paid membership. To communicate the benefit of becoming a member. It contains the following products: -Tote -Tee shirt -Notepad -Brand book -Guide book Series + CD
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changes, there are a
services that can be a threat for the brand however none of them are aggressive and provides full coverage.
Promotion_ Poster Series
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GR 620 VISUAL THINKING
Encourage other age-groups to contribute in assisting elderly thrive and ease into this new age.
GREY GEEKS GR 620 VISUAL THINKING
01 02 03 04 05
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BRAND DEVELOPMENT Visual Verve Keywords + Tone Logo Development Logo Competition Final Logo + Identity
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Visual Verve_
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VISUAL AESTHETIC OF THE BRAND When planning the visual aesthetic of the brand for ‘Grey Geeks’ I combined a palette of five colors. The color story represented three bright, to depict technology, trust, positivity, clarity, energy, optimism, enlightenment, remembrance and two neutral shades to represent old age, formal, conservative, sophistication and stability. I used clear, legible, geometric sans-serif typeface ‘Museo Sans’ for brand communication. Overall mood as uplifting and illuminating, hopeful, happiness without loosing its simplicity.
Keywords
Tone
Reconnect_ Overcoming isolation by redefining connectivity, is the primary intention of Grey Geeks. Enabling senior adults to stay in touch with family and friends via technology can change the way they age. With technology, they can regenerate bonds.
The tone of Grey Geeks would be smart, welcoming, motivating yet calm and simple. To make technology less intimidating for senior adults the tone of the brand should convey confidence and empathy. A palette of neutral colors to symbolize calmness and bright color pops for energy, hope and new age. Use of geometric sans-serif typeface for legibility and approachable.
Relevance_ Technology can be relevant if you want it to be. Grey Geeks aims to improve the functioning of the senior adults in their daily life. Taming technology can make enormous difference in their lives and empower them to accomplish powerful outcomes. Plus its fun!
GR 620 VISUAL THINKING
Guidance_ Everyone exploring a new world needs a guide. Many older adults confronted with a generational divide between post-millennial “digital natives” and older “digital immigrants.” As the internet age plows forward, many seniors are seeking resources and training to get up to speed. Grey Geeks intends to ease senior adults into this new age.
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Keywords + Tone_
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Logo development_
Initial Sketches of potential names
re connect
reconnect
reconnect
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wire up
wire up
wireUp WIRE UP
wireUp re
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connect
wire up
re: connect
wire up
Refinements of logo directions For the logo I tried both typographic and iconographic variations. I liked bit of both and decided to explore in two directions for my final logo. I wanted my logo to be simple, communicate a new start and capture the confidence of my brand vision.
geeks
GREY GEEKS
grey grey
geeks
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Logo Competition_
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flexibility.
calmness, and
resents stability,
color rep-
Neutral beige
name ‘Grey Geeks’.
First Letter of brand
completeness.
well-roundedness, and
structure as well as
efficiency. It suggests
organization and
Use of circle suggests
ogy, and new age.
represents start, technol-
Power button icon
GREY GEEKS
energy, enthusiasm, and thirst.
Red-Orange represents
Final Logo + Identity_
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Final Logo Meaning and Usage
Color
Alphabet ‘G’ represents the first letter of the brand name and the icon shows power/start button for technology. The power button is arguably one of the most important buttons on computer-it is what turns on the machine.
I selected a combination of vibrant and neutral color for the logo to make a confident, positive statement. The logo is primarily used as reverse for a better focus point.
GREY GEEKS
First Letter Logo + Logotype
Power Button Primary Palette
c=0, m=80, y=80, k=0
c=15, m=12, y=32, k=0
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c=54, m=48, y=57, k=19
Logo Usage / Lock-ups
Logotype Typeface Museo Slab 700 ABCDEFGHJKLM NOPQRSTUVWX YZ 012 4567898& %$#@!?abcdefgh ijklmnopqrstuv wxyz
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Brand Identity
Museo Sans 100 ABCDEFGHJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ 012 4567898&%$#@ !?abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz Museo Sans 300 ABCDEFGHJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ 012 4567898&%$#@ !?abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz Museo Sans 500 ABCDEFGHJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ 012 4567898&%$#@ !?abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz Museo Sans 700 ABCDEFGHJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ 012 4567898&%$#@! ?abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz Museo Sans 900 ABCDEFGHJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ 012 4567898&%$#@ !?abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz
Secondary Palette
c=60, m=0, y=20, k=3
c=0, m=10, y=100, k=0
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Brand Typeface
GREY GEEKS
For the brand Identity I divided the color palette into two sections. Primary and secondary or assent colors. I selected circle as the dominant shape throughout my brand communication for consistency and resemblance with the logo. I selected Museo Sans with five weights as the typeface for communication in my deliverables.
Icons Style
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01 02 03 04
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DELIVERABLES Poster Series Product // Welcome Kit Narrative // Tech Tutorials Website + App
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Poster Series_
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Poster Concepts For the poster series I selected persuasive direction. I wanted to show the possibilities senior adults will achieve if they are better connected via technology.
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The primary intention of my poster series communicates the benefit of staying connected secondly how Grey Geek can help senior adults ease into technology.
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Product // Membership Kit_
Grey Geeks invites senior adults to become members to avail endless opportunities to ease into technology through events, journals, tutorials, programs, related reminders, and updates.
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GREY GEEKS
For the membership kit, I designed registration kiosks, application form, membership pack; welcome letter, membership card, brand brochure. Also products like tech tutorial book series, totes, badges, note-pads, t-shirts can be included in the kit.
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This Brand Brochure narrates the brand’s concern, vision, mission and the future that they desire for
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GREY GEEKS
connect at greygeeks.org
Senior Adults.
Our Concern
greygeeks.or g
Depression a ects more lion Americans or older.
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do not use the Internet -
Our concer n
the “G.I. Genera tion,”
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Narrative // Tech Tutorial_
Book Series
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As a narrative deliverable I decided to design pocket book series as tech tutorials. These books are self help quick reference books. Each one covers three separate subjects; computer, internet, and networking. They are easy to use and easy to carry guide books for senior tech novices. An initiative by Greek Geeks to empower senior adults.
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Why technology_
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Jargon buster_
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Mobile internet _
Table of contents
Connect to new age
connect at greygeeks.org
Connect easy_
Main Office Address: 1650 5th floor, Mission Street San Francisco, CA 94103
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Connect easy_
Feel free to contact us for questions or more information. Phone: 415 355 3555
Grey Geeks has created this guide to help those people who have never used technology to understand and enjoy the benefits they offer. It really is easier than you think.
If you think technology is not for you, you’re not alone. If you think you’re too old to use it, you’re not alone. There are millions of people who feel the same way.
98% 18-29 yrs
87%
Technology have become a part of everyday life–from staying in touch with friends and family and sharing photographs to booking holidays and doing your shopping online. It’s all really useful. If you know how!
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Connect easy_
computer from viruses.
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Jargon buster
Application_ Another word for computer program. For example, Word, which is used for creating documents is a word processing application. There are some technical terms that beginners should learn. While some Internet technology can be very complex and intimidating, the fundamentals of understanding the Net are quite doable. Some of the basic terms to learn include: Address Book_ Part of your email software where you store details of your friends and contacts’ email addresses so you don’t have to remember them! Anti-virus_ Anti-virus software helps protect your
Archive_ The place on a website where you find old ar ticles, stories etc. Attachment_ A file which is ‘attached’ and sent with a standard text email message. Often photographs or Word documents are attached to emails. Backup_ A technical term for copying files onto disk or CD-ROM for safe keeping so that they are kept in more than one place. Bcc _Means Blind carbon copy. The Bcc box allows you to send an email to
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Laptop_ A small, portable computer which can be battery operated as well as run from the mains.
Inbox_ The folder in your email program / webmail where you get your incoming emails.
Link_ Words or pictures you can click on which take you from somewhere (an internet page, an email message etc.) to somewhere else (another page, a picture etc.).
Internet_ Millions of computers around the world connected together by telephone lines, cables or satellites. Internet Explorer_ One of the most popular web browsers, designed by Microsoft.
Logging in_ Using a username and password to prove your identity so that you can enter your computer or internet account.
Macintosh/Mac_ A family of computers developed by ISP_ Internet Service Apple. Provider. An ISP is the company that provides internet Mailbox_ The folder which contains a person’s individconnections. ual items such as an inbox, Junk email_ Direct maroutbox, sent items, notes keting sent by email rather and calendar. than by the post. 12_
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more than one person but their email addresses are hidden from other recipients. Broadband_ A permanent high-speed internet connection. It receives digital information at about 100 times faster than a dial-up modem and is “always-on”. Browser_ A program you use to view web pages and ‘browse’ websites. Internet Explorer and Mozilla Firefox are two of the most popular browsers. Bugs_Errors in a piece of software or web page that can make it break or work strangely. Cc_ Typing an email address or string of email addresses in the ‘Cc’ box will send your mail to those additional addresses as well 09_
which, when you click on it launches an application, program or acts like a link on the World Wide Web.
Memory_ The storage and thinking parts of your computer. More storage memory on your hard disk (ROM) means you can save more files and more thinking memory (RAM) means your computer can perform more complex tasks quicker.
Refresh/Reload_ The button that you use to download a web page again. In Internet Explorer it’s called “Refresh” and in Mozilla Firefox “Reload”. You should press this button if for some reason a web page appears not to have loaded correctly.
Monitor_ The display screen on your computer.
Register_ Some websites ask you to give your name, email address and other personal information in order to view pages. This is called registering.
Offline_ Describes when your computer is not connected to the internet. Online_ Describes when your computer is connected to the internet. Password_ A series of letters, numbers and characters that you enter to get into your computer, internet connection, email or websites that you are registered with.
Age-group
Connect easy_
Search engine_ A search engine is usually a website which allows you to search the internet for information. The search engine lists results that relate to your key words. Software_ Any programs such as word processors, 13_
Why technology?
Welcome
GREY GEEKS
Connect easy_
Technology is embedded in our Western society in a way that the majority of people seem to forget that it is a relatively new development. The mainstream of this society has quickly adopted computer technology as part of their daily life, and in doing so openened up to all the possibilities this technology has to offer. The ever growing group of elderly people (age 60 and older) in our society, which will grow from being 20 per cent of the population in developed countries to being 32 per cent by
percentage of who go online.
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30-49 yrs 77% 50-64 yrs 56% 65 and older
2050, seems to have been forgotten in this matter. According to PEW’s Internet and American Life Project, 98 percent of 18-29 yearolds use the Internet. In contrast, only 56% of 65+ adults go online. On top of that, depression affects more than 6.5 million of the 35 million Americans who are 65 or older, as per a study conducted by the National Alliance on Mental Illness. One way to combat that latter figure? Enable senior citizens to stay in touch with family and friends via technology.
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as the main recipient. Crash_ When your computer temporarily stops working. It may pause or ‘freeze’ up, or tell you to restart or quit. Cursor_ The flashing ver tical line on the screen that shows you where you are and where the next character you type will appear.
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Driver_ Software which runs hardware attached to your computer like a modem, printer or scanner. New hardware normally comes with a CD containing the necessary drivers to install on your computer. Download_ Getting a file onto your computer from another computer on the internet.
Cut and paste_ Selecting text, images or files and deleting them from one place while putting them in another.
Drag and drop_ Clicking on an icon or selection, holding the mouse button down and moving the mouse to ‘drag’ the selection to a new Digital Cameras_ A camlocation. When the mouse era that takes photographs button is released the item and stores them on disks or is ‘dropped’. smart cards rather than on Email_ Electronic mail. film.The photos can then be Messages (sometimes with downloaded onto a comattachments) sent over the puter where the images can internet from one email be printed, put on a web address to another. page or emailed.
Error message_ A ‘complaint’ by the computer that something has gone wrong, maybe including an ‘error code’. FAQ_ Frequently Asked Questions. A list of standard answers to questions which newcomers to a topic or website may have. File_ Data stored on a disk. There are two types: ‘program files’ (with instructions that make up software applications, e.g. Word) and ‘data files’ (files created by you and me, e.g. a letter or photo). Firewall_ A program which sits between your computer and the internet and watches for hacking, viruses or unapproved data transfer.
your browser to show animations. Hacking_ Unauthorised access to a computer, its files and programs by a ‘hacker’, a computer expert who can break through its security. Hard drive/Hard disk_ The place inside your computer where you save documents, pictures, applications, etc. Homepage_ The ‘front page’ of a website, where you’re told what’s on the site, how to get around it and how to search for things that’ll interest you. Hypertext_ Text which is arranged in a non-linear fashion and which you continue reading by clicking on links.
Flash_ A plug-in application Icon_ A small picture you download which allows
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email applications or internet browsers. SPAM_ Junk email sent to many people at once, usually involving advertising or offering services. SPAM is very deeply frowned upon by most internet users, and where it involves advertising or a false return address it is particularly disliked. URL_ Stands for Uniform Resource Locator, the technical term for the address of a website or document on the web (e.g. www.bbc. co.uk).
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and damage data or system performance. There are thousands of viruses and the numbers keep growing. Web browser_ Software which allows you to surf the internet.
WebWise_offers lots of video tutorials and activities to help you practise new skills. www.greygeeks/ webwise
Username_ A series of letters and numbers you type into your computer, email account or other computer network service to tell it who you are. Virus_ Pieces of code that are designed to reproduce 14_
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Laptops, netbooks, and smartphones are the devices we use to surf the Net as we travel. Riding on the bus, sitting in a coffee shop, at the library, in an airport... mobile Internet is a revolutionary convenience.
Email is a massive subnetboth business and social work inside the Internet. purposes. For those people We trade written messages, that use IM, it can be along with file attachments, an excellent communicathrough email. While it can tion tool. suck away your time, email does provide the business value of maintaining a paper trail for conversa“Social Networking” is about tions. Refer guide book 3 starting and maintaining for details. friendship communications through websites. It is the modern digital form of socializing, done through web pages. Users will choose one or more online services that specialize in groupwide-communications, and then gather their Instant Messaging: friends there to exchange Faster than Email Instant daily greetings and regular messaging, or “IM”, is a messages. Although not combination of chat and the same as face-to-face email. Although often communications, social considered a distraction at networking is immensely corporate offices, popular because it is IM can be a very useful easy, playful, and quite communication tool for 17_
Facebook’s developer network delivers advanced functionality in the form of social apps like Flixster and Vampire Wars.
The idea of Facebook can be quite confusing to those new to social networking. So what is Facebook? It is a place to communicate with friends and family, to share photographs or funny links you find on the Web, to play social games like Farmville or Mafia Wars, search for long-lost friends or even chat interactively with your buddies. In short, it is your home on the web. Facebook Profile: Key Features Facebook allows you to maintain a friends list and choose privacy settings to tailor who can see what on your profile. Facebook allows you to upload photos and maintain photo albums that can be shared with your friends. Facebook supports interactive online chat and the ability to comment on your friends “walls” in order to keep in touch or just say ‘hi’.
Facebook Connect allows websites to interact with Facebook and allows Facebook to be used as a universal login authentication service.
Twitter is a mini-blogging platform that you can use to send messages of 140 characters or less to family, friends, or just the general Web community at large. Twitter was launched in 2006 and boasts over 140 million users at the time of this writing, collectively sending millions of messages, called “tweets”, every day. Twitter requires initial registration (free), using your name and email address. Once verified, users may personalize their profiles using onsite design tools, connect with other users already using the service, and utilize their existing email contact lists for Twitter members.
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Feel free to contact us for questions or more information. Phone: 415 355 3555
Connect easy_
connect at greygeeks.org
Main Office Address: 1650 5th floor, Mission Street San Francisco, CA 94103
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Switching on your computer_
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Using a mouse_
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Using a keyboard_
Table of contents
Connect to computer
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Facebook supports groups and fan pages, allowing businesses to effectively use Facebook as a vehicle for social media marketing.
motivating. Social networking sites can be general, or focused on hobby interests like movies and music.
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Mobile internet
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It’s all really useful. If you know how!
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A mouse is one of the main ways to control your computer.
Using a mouse
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This section is all about the mouse and how you use it to control your computer. This section covers: What a mouse is for_ How to hold a mouse_ How to use a mouse to select, open and move items on your computer_
A mouse needs to be flat on a surface with the end with the buttons pointing towards the computer. Most people find it easier to position the mouse to the side of the keyboard.
connect to computer
To hold the mouse you rest your hand over it and put your index finger on the left button and rest your If you are thumb on left-handed the side. you may find it easier to put the mouse on the left-hand side of your keyboard and use your Most mouse middle finger designs have for the left button. two buttons–a left button and a right button.
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This is a basic introduction to different types of computers and how to switch them on. This section covers: Switching on a computer_ The difference between a desktop computer and a laptop_
The main difference between a desktop and a laptop is that a laptop is smaller and portable. Laptops also have a touchpad which can be used instead of a mouse but you can connect a mouse to a laptop if you prefer.
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You can use your mouse to do a variety of tasks– select things, open things and move things.
You only need to use the left button for this section. If you click on the right button– don’t worry. Just click on the left button again.
An arrow lets you select things and move them around.
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Computers and the internet have become a part of everyday life–from staying in touch with friends and family and sharing photographs to booking holidays and doing your shopping online.
Connect easy_
To switch your computer on, you need to press the power button.
Grey Geeks has created this guide to help those people who have never used a computer or the internet to understand and enjoy the benefits they offer. It takes you step-bystep through the very basics like using a mouse and a keyboard, through to searching the internet and sending emails. It really is easier than you think. So get ready to take your first click!
If you think computers and the internet are not for you, you’re not alone. If you think you’re too old to use it, you’re not alone. There are millions of people who feel the same way.
Switching on your computer
Welcome
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When you move the mouse it moves a pointer or ‘cursor’ on the screen.
The cursor will change shape depending on what you are doing.
A hand lets you open a link on the internet.
An hourglass is asking you to wait while the computer does a task.
To select things, move your cursor over the item, click once with the left button and let go.
To open things click twice on the left button– think ‘knock, knock’ on a door.
To move things, you need to ‘drag and drop’. Hold down the left button as you ‘drag’ the mouse along. Let go of the button once you have positioned the item where you want it.
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How to put information (words and numbers) into your computer. This section covers:
A keyboard is for putting information such as letters, words and numbers into your computer. The keys are the individual buttons you press when you type.
What a keyboard looks like_ What the different keys do and how to use them_
When you open a document or click in a box to type, you will see a flashing vertical line. This is the cursor. It tells you where you are going to start typing on the page or screen.
The keys that surround the letters, numbers and symbol keys on the left, right and bottom of the keyboard, help you to choose where and how you type.
The letterkeys are in the centre of the keyboard.
Press the letter keys for letters. You will notice they are laid out in a non-alphabetical order. This is called a QWERTY layout.
The number keys run across the top of the keyboard and are also on the right of the keyboard.
Press the number keys for numbers and press the symbol keys for symbols.
You can use the Shift key to type any symbol at the top of a key. When you let go of the Shift key you will begin to type lower case letters and numbers again. The Caps Lock key lets you write in capital letters. To turn it on, press it once and then type. To turn it off, press it again.
The symbol keys to the right of the letters include symbols such as the question mark and full stop.
Pressing the Shift key lets you type capital letters and the symbols at the top of the keys. The Shift keys are on the left and right of the keyboard, with the arrow pointing upwards.
Putting in spaces, moving your cursor and deleting text
Using a keyboard
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Table of contents
Connect to internet
Connect easy_
Main Office Address: 1650 5th floor, Mission Street San Francisco, CA 94103
The space bar puts a space between words. You press it once to put in a space. The Tab key puts a bigger space between words. You press it once to put in a space. The Enter key moves your cursor down a line. The arrow keys let you move your cursor in all directions on the page or screen–up, down, left and right. To delete your typing you need to put your cursor to the right of a word. Press the Backspace button to delete your word. The cursor will move to the left and delete as it goes.
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For capital letters, press down the shift key and hold and then type the letter. For symbols at the top of a number key, press down the shift key and then type the symbol.
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Feel free to contact us for questions or more information. Phone: 415 355 3555
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What the internet is_
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Searching the internet _
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Staying safe online _
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Using email_
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GR 620 VISUAL THINKING
Grey Geeks has created this guide to help those people who have never used a computer or the internet to understand and enjoy the benefits they offer. It takes you step-bystep through the very basics like using a mouse and a keyboard, through to searching the internet and sending emails. It really is easier than you think. So get ready to take your first click!
If you think computers and the internet are not for you, you’re not alone. If you think you’re too old to use it, you’re not alone. There are millions of people who feel the same way. Computers and the internet have become a part of everyday life–from staying in touch with friends and family and sharing photographs to booking holidays and doing your shopping online.
connect to internet
The information on the internet is contained in websites and on webpages.
The www stands for World Wide Web. Most websites have this at the beginning.
Your mobile phone company, home phone, cable television provider or even your local supermarket chain can offer you an internet connection. A broadband internet connection allows you to access the internet.
The address bar has the address of the website you are on. Every website has an address, which is also called a URL. For example, the URL for the Grey Geeks website is:
The greygeeks is the name of the website.
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This is a basic introduction to internet and how to use it. This section covers: Understanding how the internet works_
The internet is a worldwide network of computers all connected to each other by telephone lines, cables and satellites. It’s like a huge library of information.
Using a web browser_ Browsing the internet_
It’s all really useful. If you know how!
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To connect to the internet you need an Internet Service Provider or ISP.
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What the internet is
Welcome
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On the internet you can read the news, shop, pay bills, send emails, watch television programmes and more.
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You view websites and webpages in a web browser. A web browser is simply a way of being able to view web pages.
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All web browsers have similar features. You can normally open your The .org web browser from a shortshows the cut on your desktop. grey geeks website is an organisation.
At the top of the browser you will find an address bar. To go to a website you need to put its address into the address bar.
www.greygeeks.org
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To explore inside a website you need to click on links. A website is like a book which has a front cover or home page, and lots of other pages, which are called webpages.
Click the Home button to go to the first page you see when you open your web browser. The home button looks like a house.
A link can take you to a webpage in the website.
A link can be text, a button or an image. Links are highlighted so you can spot them. Your cursor will change to a hand when it moves over a link.
Click the Refresh button to reload or update a page you are on.
Why use a search engine? This section covers: Why use a search engine_ Opening and using a search engine_ Making your search better_
Click the History button to see what websites and webpages you have already visited.
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The result from your search will appear as a list of websites and links. The most popular or relevant will be at the top of the list To visit a site, click on a link
To view a website, simply click on the link.
If you can’t find what you want, try to use different words or a different way of expressing it..
You can practise your searching skills with the greygeeks. org
Practise putting key words into the search box and pressing the search button.
Firewall software Anti-virus software Anti-spyware software You can also find other tips for keeping your computer safe at www.greygeeks.org People may send you emails to try and access your private information such as bank account or credit card details. You may also get SPAM emails which are sent to thousands of people and usually advertise products or services.
Software that keeps your information safe on your computer_ How to recognise and prevent suspicious emails_
But you should not let fear stop you using the internet. There are a few simple precautions that can keep you and your password information safe.
Sometimes you need usernames and Practise passwords to register on certain websites. creating a strong password using the greygeeks game, Password Choose a password that is memorable and High Striker. not easy for someone else to guess. You can find it at www. The best type of passwords mix letters and greygeeks. numbers. This is known as a strong passorg word as it is a lot more difficult to work out what it would be.
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Electronic mail or email is a quick way of sending messages to people using the internet.
A username can be anything you want it to be. You might not want to use your real name as this will help keep your identity unknown and safe.
It is safer to have different passwords for different websites. You use your username and password to log in to a website.
Remember–never give your password to anyone.
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A secure site will start with https:// The ‘s’ is what indicates it’s a secure site.
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An email appears in your inbox You can tell it is a new or unopened email as it will appear in bold. You can see who the email is from and the subject of the email. An email has the following features: An address bar where you put the email address.
You can practise sending and receiving email with the grey geeks games at greygeeks. org
A subject bar where you write what your email is about. he main body of the email, where you write your message.
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This section covers:
The internet is a wonderful tool that has lots of benefits and can make your life better. Unfortunately, the features that make it easy for honest people to use can also be exploited by criminals and people intending to cause disruption.
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After you have used a website you should always log off.
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This section is all about how to stay safe when using the internet.
How to create strong passwords for use on websites_
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It’s important that your computer at home is protected.
The search engine has a search box or search field.
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A list of search results will appear, with the most popular websites near the top of the list.
You do this with special programmes:
Click the arrow key on the address bar or press the enter key on the keyboard. This will take you to the search engine.
Where else to go for more information better_
Using email
Key words are words that describe what you are looking for in the most simple and direct way, for example “growing tomatoes”
Use key words not fullsentences or questions. For example, instead of typing “I need tips for growing tomatoes” simply type “growing tomatoes”
Some of the most popular search engines are: Google www.google.com Yahoo www.yahoo.com Bing www.bing.com
Type in the address of the search engine you want to use in the address bar.
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Staying safe online
To search you type key words into the searchbox and press the search button
A search engine will scan through thousands of websites and webpages on the internet and collect and organise the information it thinks is most relevant to you.
To use a search engine, for example Internet Explorer or Mozilla Firefox, you need to open your web browser.
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You can make your searching more effective by following a few handy tips:
To search the internet effectively you need a search engine.
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Click the Forward button to go to the page you were on before you pressed the back button.
You can practise your browsing skills with the greygeeks. com
The internet has millions of websites and webpages. You can search for almost anything–from recipes and local news, to history and gardening tips.
What is email? This section covers: Sending and receiving an email_ Sending attachments_ Forwarding an email and using contacts_ Your email folders_
The @ stands for the word ‘at’ and means that they are connected to the bbc.co.uk part of the address. After the @ is the name of the place where the person works or the place which provides the email address.
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You forward an email when you want somebody else to see it, such as another friend. Remember: When you forward an email it’s important to check that you are only sending information that you want the other person to see. There are different folders that you use for email. These help you manage and organise your emails.
If you’re thinking of setting up an email account, there are a number of popular providers to consider:
The inbox holds the emails that people have sent to you.
Gmail (run by Google)
A junk folder hold emails that you computer thinks are junk or SPAM. A Trash can or folder holds emails that you no longer need and have deleted. To delete an email you select it and then click on the Delete button.
An attachment is a type of file such asa photo or document. You can send anattachment with an email. To add anattachment you need to click on the Attach button.
An email address is made up of the following parts: Tom is the person’s name or user name the name they use.
.uk shows that the email address is for someone in the United Kingdom.
A sent box hold the emails that you have sent to people.
You open an email by clicking twice on it, for example in the subject line. Once an email is open you can reply to it. You reply by clicking on the Reply button.
You send an email to a person’s email address.
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Click the Back button to go back to a page you have already visited.
A link can also take you to a different website.
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Searching the internet
A web browser also has a toolbar. You use the toolbar buttons to move around websites and update webpages.
Hotmail (run by Microsoft) Yahoo! Mail (run by Yahoo)
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Website For the Website, I decided to divide into 4 parts; about, WebWise (tech tutorials), shop and connect. Besides introducing the organization, team and objectives the website aims to provide practice tutorials for tech novices (after registration), inform them about upcoming events and latest buzz in technology relevant to senior adults. The website also works as an online store for Grey Geeks branded products that can be bought by and for senior adults.
GR 620 VISUAL THINKING
I designed five screen. The first screen is the home screen. The next two screen are about the brand and the team behind Grey Geeks. The third is the tutorial video screen under WebWise and the third is the shop screen which displays Grey Geeks branded products.
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App The smart phone seems intimidating because of its several features, complex navigation and multiple touch-points. Grey Geeks app is a possible answer to that problem. Which simplifies tech experience for senior adults.
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I designed four screens to introduce the concept of this app. The first screen displays the brand or welcome screen. The second screen displays simple, large icons for each function. The third and fourth further explores the contact and connect function respectively.
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Š Krishnapriya dutta gupta
Grey Geeks GR620 Visual Thinking Summer 2015 Academy of Art University Instructor_ David Hake krishnapridg@gmail.com +1 415 643 2032
Paper_ Epson Premium Presentation Matt Typefaces_ Museo slab, Museo Sans Images_ dollarphotoclub.org August 2015