What We'll Learn
Making Phone Calls and Sending Text Messages
Communicating by Email
Sharing on Facebook and Google+
Your phone provides a variety of ways for you to connect with other people. One of the first things to understand is that all these communications happen through either your Wireless Network Provider or your Internet Service Provider. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
Your Cellular Connection is available virtually anywhere. All voice and texting is automatically routed through this connection. You pay for this connection through a prearranged plan or by the type and frequency of your use. Using your cellular connection for data can be very costly.
Your Wifi Connection is only available in local environments. It can more efficiently and cost-effectively handle data using a dedicated Internet connection provided by the location you're in. For example, in your home setting you pay for this connection through a monthly fee to your Internet Service Provider.
Make sure you are familiar with how to identify the available Wi-Fi connections, and how to connect to them:
Figure out how to access the Settings on your device.
Find the WiFi settings. Make sure WiFi is turned on.
View the available wireless networks, note how some are secured and some are open.
If you are accessing a secured network, you will need to have a password that will be provided to you for that network. Some public Wi-Fi networks require you to enter a password when you first access the Internet.
Two of the most common uses of mobile phones (not available on most tablets) is the ability to place a voice call or to text someone. The way people choose to communicate Is often a matter of personal preference, however there are some general rules of thumb:
Voice - The best way to contact someone who is readily available. Take some time to set up your voicemail so that you can capture incoming calls that happen when you're busy or your phone is off. Voice calls are also the best way to discuss a complex or confidential issue.
Text - For quick conversations or updates, texting can be an efficient way to communicate. Generally designed for short messages and fast turnaround, without necessarily requiring direct interaction.
Email - Email is the best way to convey complex information that has a lot of detail. It also preserves the conversation for future reference. Email allows the recipient to respond at their convenience.
You should be familiar with the following on your phone:
How to make a phone call.
How to answer a phone call.
How to access your voicemail and check messages, and delete them.
How to identify when you've missed a call.
How to identify when someone sends you a text message.
How to send or respond to a text message.
A wonderful way to stay in touch with people far away is to have a video conference with them. Many devices are capable of using video and voice programs over the Internet so that you can freely talk to and see the person at the same time.
Apple uses the FaceTime app. http://support.apple.com/kb/ht4319
Android uses Google Hangouts.
The following video gives you a bit of an idea of this capability:
Try the following on your phone or tablet:
Locate the videophone app, or install it from the store.
Request a contact with someone you know.
Arrange a time to call and try it out.