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We use the term
"digital inclusion" as a means to ensure the existing gap between
those who can effectively use meaningful technology applications and
communication tools, such as the computers and the Internet, and those who
cannot, can someday be closed. There are many youngsters in our community who
have no access, outside of their educational environment, to the tools needed to
break down the divide.
The Institute for the
Study of Digital Inclusion is committed to breaking down the
divide through “digital inclusion.”
Our goal is to provide Junior and Senior High School
students with access to the technology, and to empower them
with the knowledge to effectively use these tools to support
their educational endeavors. In the DeLand Chisholm Center
as well as in Oakland Terrace, we have created a user-friendly,
hands-on learning environment for students from within our
own community. Upon completion of a four-week training program,
the students are provided with a computer to take home that
is theirs to keep.
The
class consists of two sessions, each one lasting two weeks. The first session
covers basic computing concepts and computing terminology. From there, we move
into software applications. The goal is for the students to gain familiarity
with mainstream software applications while developing “real world” skills.
For example, when we cover Microsoft Word, students create a resume for
themselves. In the Power Point class, we use the scenario that each student is
the owner of a manufacturing company. They decide on the product and the target
customer base and then create a presentation to market the product.
The
second two weeks is designed to give the student hands on experience with
computer hardware. A lab environment has been created with a computer
workstation for each student. During
the two-week period, the students will remove each component of the computer,
and learn how they interact to form a working unit. Once the computers are
disassembled and the students have gained an understanding of the individual
components, they begin the process of reassembling the computer. The technical
problems that are inherent to the process provide the students with real world
troubleshooting skills. Once the system is reassembled, the students then
introduce new hardware and software to the system.
Our
long-term goal is to evaluate the impact of the program on the students.
Additional classes covering more advanced topics will be offered to each
graduating student of the “Make It - Take It™” program. In addition, those
students receiving advanced training will have the opportunity to return in the
capacity of “student mentor.”
This
program has the potential to expand to other sites throughout Volusia County and
Central Florida. The program will be monitored on a national level through The
Institute for the Study of Digital Inclusion.
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