This week, I wanted to tell you about an app that I’ve been playing with quite a bit recently called Lumosity. It’s been around for years now, so you might have come across it before, but if you like puzzles, it’s definitely worth a look.
But first…
A few questions you might have about the courses… (along with the answers of course…):
I tried to join a course online, but I got stuck/my card payment didn’t work. Can you help me?
Of course! Last week, we were trying out a new online ordering system for the courses. It was supposed to make it easier for you, but we know some people struggled with it. Sorry! We’ve switched back to our old system now, so you can have another go if you like. Or you can call us on 01229 777606 and Jade, Karen or Shanice will sort everything out for you over the phone.
Is there a time limit on when I have to start my course?
No – you can start straight away or leave it till later. Once you’re enrolled in a course you have complete access for as long as the course is online (at least 3 years), so you can join now and then start it whenever you like.
Do I have to work through it at set times?
No – it’s not like an evening class in that way. You can work through each part or “lesson” whenever it suits you. Do it in the evenings, the mornings or even the middle of the night if you like! You can get halfway through a lesson, stop there and carry on again next time from wherever you got to – you’re in control.
Can I follow the course on a different device – e.g. a desktop PC or a laptop?
Yes – you can use any PC, laptop, tablet (or even smart TV if you’re that way inclined), so long as it’s connected to the internet. You could even use a smartphone if you like, but you might find everything a bit small on a phone screen. For example, if you sign up for the Tablet course, you might want to follow it sitting at a desktop PC. You could watch the videos on your PC while you try out the things you’re being shown on your tablet – up to you.
In fact you can even use two different devices. The course will keep track of where you’re up to – so you can sign in to your account from anywhere.
Can I join any time?
No – the courses are only open to new members until Friday 24th February. After that we’ll be closing enrolment so you won’t be able to join – best get in before then if you think it might help you.
You can read the full details about each of the courses (including how to join and the rather unusual guarantee) here – why not have a look: Smartphones Made Simple, Tablets Made Simple, Windows 10 Made Simple, Windows 11 Made Simple.
Lumosity – a great app for keeping your mind sharp
I’ve always been a bit of a puzzle fan, and if you’re anything like me, I think you’ll really like Lumosity. You can download the app for free from the Google Play Store or App Store on an iPad or iPhone. There’s a premium version if you want to be able to play all the games, but you get three random games for free every day.
The way it works is that you choose what types of puzzle you want to do (it’s marketed as “brain-training”, but that just means loads of different puzzles and games that use different bits of your brain to keep it active). When I set up the app, I just tick all the boxes, so I get my random daily puzzles picked from all the different types, not just a few.
For example, yesterday I had a game where I was in a car and had to dodge obstacles (an “information processing” game), and two different memory puzzles. They get harder over time as well, so they definitely keep me on my toes!
Yours
Julie Wakeling