We are having some interesting discussions about a program that started in India using a single computer with internet access placed outdoors in a wall where anybody and everybody could use it. (It looks like an ATM.)
It was so successful that kids with no education at all were teaching themselves. The program has since been expanded, and they even have computers at playgrounds now. We are tossing around the idea and wondering if we should try putting one of our XO laptops outdoors like this in Ketane.
The India project found some very interesting results. It worked best for 6-12 year olds and those in groups of about 4. One thing they learned was that regardless of the language on the computer, the kids were able to learn how to use it and discover features and information all on their own. They tried giving the kids some physics questions and let them look for the answers on their own. The result was pretty amazing. That led to the concept of minimally invasive education, teaching by asking questions.
If you'd like to learn more about the Hole-in-the-Wall project and minimally invasive education, check out: http://www.hole-in-the-wall.com/
- Janissa
Thursday, October 7, 2010
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