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A Basic AI Course for Curious Adults

A gentle 4-lesson introduction to AI for people in their 40s, 50s, and 60s

Welcome!

This short course is made just for you - no tech background needed, no pressure, and everything is free. Each lesson is designed to take about 25 minutes. You'll watch a short, friendly YouTube video (or two) and then try simple things yourself using the free version of ChatGPT at chatgpt.com.

You only need:

  • A computer, tablet, or phone with internet
  • 25 quiet minutes
  • An open mind (and maybe a cup of tea)

How the lessons work

  1. Watch the video(s) - total 10–15 minutes
  2. Spend the rest of the time trying it yourself with ChatGPT
  3. Take it slow. There's no test!

Lesson 1: What Is AI? (And Your Very First Chat)

Time: 25 minutes
Goal: Understand what AI really is and start talking to ChatGPT like it's a helpful friend.

Step 1: Watch (12 minutes total)

Step 2: Try It Yourself (13 minutes)

  1. Go to chatgpt.com and sign up (free, takes 30 seconds).

  2. Type these prompts one at a time and press Enter:

  3. "Hello! I'm new to this. Can you introduce yourself in a friendly way?"

  4. "Explain what a smartphone is like I'm 60 years old and have never used one."
  5. "Tell me a short, funny story about a retiree who discovers AI."

Tip: If you don't like the answer, just type "Can you explain that more simply?" or "Make it shorter."

Well done! You've just had your first real conversation with AI.

Lesson 2: Getting Better Answers - The Magic of Good Prompts

Time: 25 minutes
Goal: Learn how to ask ChatGPT questions so you get useful, clear answers every time.

Step 1: Watch (8 minutes)

Master the Perfect ChatGPT Prompt Formula (in just 8 minutes!) Short and practical — you'll immediately start writing better prompts.

Step 2: Try It Yourself (17 minutes)

Use the "formula" from the video (Task + Context + Format).

Try these prompts (copy and paste, then change the parts in bold):

  • "You are a kind retired teacher. Explain how to use an iPhone to a 55-year-old who has never owned a smartphone. Use simple words and short sentences. Give me 5 easy steps."
  • "Help me write a polite email to my bank asking why my direct debit wasn't taken this month. My account number is XXXXX. Keep it friendly but firm."
  • "Give me 3 fun weekend activity ideas for someone in their 60s who likes gardening and hates crowds."

Extra practice: Ask ChatGPT to improve one of your own real emails or questions from daily life.

You've leveled up! Good prompts = much better answers.

Lesson 3: AI as Your Everyday Helper

Time: 25 minutes
Goal: Use ChatGPT to make real life easier — writing, ideas, learning, and recipes.

Step 1: Watch (10 minutes)

Step 2: Try It Yourself (15 minutes)

Open ChatGPT and try these useful tasks:

  1. Email helper
    "Write a warm thank-you email to my neighbour who watered my plants while I was away. Mention the beautiful roses."

  2. Idea generator
    "I'm 58 and want a new hobby that's not too expensive and can be done at home. Give me 5 ideas with what I'd need to start."

  3. Recipe wizard (very popular!)
    "I have chicken, rice, frozen peas, and onions. Suggest a simple, healthy dinner recipe for two people. Include easy steps."

  4. Quick learner
    "Explain how shares and the stock market work, like I'm a complete beginner who is a bit nervous about money."

Bonus: Ask it to explain something from the news that confused you this week.

Real-life win: These are the tasks people in their 40s–60s use ChatGPT for every single day.

Lesson 4: Being Creative with AI (And Staying Safe & Smart)

Time: 25 minutes
Goal: Have fun being creative and learn how to use AI wisely.

Step 1: Watch (10 minutes)

Step 2: Try It Yourself (15 minutes)

  1. Creative fun
    "You are a kind grandparent storyteller. Write a short bedtime story for a 7-year-old about a magical garden where plants can talk. Make it warm and positive."

  2. Role play
    "Act as a travel agent from the 1980s. Plan a dream 10-day trip to Italy for a couple in their 60s who love food and history but hate crowds."

  3. Check the facts (important!)
    "I read that AI will replace all jobs by 2030. Is that true? Give me a balanced, honest answer with sources if possible."

  4. Your own question
    Ask ChatGPT anything you're curious about — gardening tips, family history questions, or "What should I do with my old photos?"

Final tip for life:
Always read the answer twice. AI is helpful but not perfect. If something feels wrong, ask it "Are you sure?" or check with a human friend or Google.

Congratulations! You've Completed the Course

You now know:

  • What AI actually is
  • How to talk to it effectively
  • How it can help with everyday life
  • How to enjoy it safely and creatively

Next steps (optional)

  • Come back to these lessons whenever you want
  • Try asking ChatGPT about your hobbies or grandchildren
  • Share what you learned with a friend (they'll be impressed!)

Thank you for being curious.

The world of AI is big, but you've taken the first friendly steps — and that's the most important part.

Made with care for curious adults who want to understand this new technology without the hype.