Today it is obvious that computers have transformed the process of teaching and learning. However, as computer technology advances at a rapid rate, the disparities in our already unequal society are also increasing. Those with access to computers and the skills to use them are able to use the technology to acquire new information and knowledge from practically all over the world, while those who are already under-privileged are further marginalized.
If we are to lessen this inequality between those who have and those who haven’t the means to learn better and use their information effectively, we have to enhance the learning processes of the have-nots by providing them access to this new technology. In other words, with the use of the computer the poorer sections of the population can commandeer a greater fund of knowledge and skills and thus expand the range of opportunities available to them.
The MPSM educational, agricultural and social development centre in Nashik wants to put modern learning technologies at the service of poor tribal students and their teachers in 5 Jesuit run boardings in Western Maharashtra. Our model is the Knowledge Centre set up with a network of computers in St.Xavier's College, Mumbai. We intend setting up 10 such rural Knowledge Centres.
Each Knowledge Centre will need 10 laptops @ Rs.25,000 each to economise on electricity consumption and remain operational when current fails. The infrastructure of furniture and fixtures works out to Rs.50,000. The total cost of each Knowledge Centre will be Rs.3,00,000.
If we are to lessen this inequality between those who have and those who haven’t the means to learn better and use their information effectively, we have to enhance the learning processes of the have-nots by providing them access to this new technology. In other words, with the use of the computer the poorer sections of the population can commandeer a greater fund of knowledge and skills and thus expand the range of opportunities available to them.
The MPSM educational, agricultural and social development centre in Nashik wants to put modern learning technologies at the service of poor tribal students and their teachers in 5 Jesuit run boardings in Western Maharashtra. Our model is the Knowledge Centre set up with a network of computers in St.Xavier's College, Mumbai. We intend setting up 10 such rural Knowledge Centres.
Each Knowledge Centre will need 10 laptops @ Rs.25,000 each to economise on electricity consumption and remain operational when current fails. The infrastructure of furniture and fixtures works out to Rs.50,000. The total cost of each Knowledge Centre will be Rs.3,00,000.
The impact of these Computer Learning and Knowledge Centres will be seen in the short and long term. In the short term it will give the students self-confidence in the use of this equipment and an improved self-image for having handled the computer. In the long term it will build skills in the use of the commercial language – English, skills in making the computer work for the many purposes it is designed to serve.
If you believe that this enterprise can make a positive difference to the learning potential of poor students, please give us the help we need to get the Computer Learning Knowledge Centres started in 10 rural schools/boardings which we help manage.
If you believe that this enterprise can make a positive difference to the learning potential of poor students, please give us the help we need to get the Computer Learning Knowledge Centres started in 10 rural schools/boardings which we help manage.
We are grateful for your generosity
