At the conclusion of the workshop, participants were asked to list their most pressing needs. Topping the list were requests to bring digital resources and education to the school. Reliance on textbooks is no longer feasible or appropriate, whereas access to digital resources and acquiring computer skills are essential for today’s students. Currently, very few teachers or students have access to these devices.
A collaboration between FOU and Words Into Deeds, augmented by a Rotary International grant, provided $10,000 to refurbish of a room that now serves as the UNIFAT Digital Learning Center. It is equipped with 24 computers, cameras, a video-projector and printer. FOU supported the hiring of an Information Technology Specialist/Educator, Kenneth Ojara, who oversaw renovations, equipment selection and purchasing, and has organized training classes for teachers and students.
Using a rubric designed by UNESCO, a team of teachers developed grade-level exercises to help students develop Digital Literacy skills and thereby expand classroom exercises using on-line resources.