Technology Literacy Projects provide basic skills in computer and Internet use. They provide the step-by-step "how-tos" that demystify technology for new learners. In every case, the fear and comfort factor must be taken into account. While it is important to tailor the learning to local special needs populations, local communities should avoid "reinventing the basic wheel" here. There are many curricula available ­ online and through learning access centres.

This project description was written by Terry Grunwald for the Scottish Communities Channel in 2001, but is now longer available there. We plan to update here shortly.

What do Technology Literacy Projects do?

• Provide a variety of community-based learning options in a variety of locations - learning centres, neighbourhood centres, workplace, library, etc

• Focus on basic technology skills - ranging from how to handle a mouse to using graphics and multimedia tools.

• Build confidence in people's ability to use ICT and take note of the fear factor - especially among older people

• Assess the full range of literacy needs from reading, writing, and numeracy to the ability to evaluate and apply the information available online. Additional training should be offered as appropriate

• Use metaphors and examples that make sense to average citizens

• Provide mechanisms for training practitioners to exchange information on "what works best " with the local population

Resources

The British Educational and Communications Technology Agency (BECTA) has a number of useful information sheets available.

How to Help Someone use a Computer. Common sense advice from Phil Agre, a guru on social uses of the Net

The BBC's Webwise site offers a treasure chest of information.

The Murchison Center in Ohio has a great list of technology curriculum materials.

The European Computers Drivers Licence is the European-wide qualification, which enables people to demonstrate their competence in computer skills.

Models

Craigmillar Community Information Service in Edinburgh promotes technology literacy ­ from the Cradle to the Grave. See their story here.

Key Lesson Learned. Build Confidence and Competence - in that order. See their story on this site for more lessons.

Rosemount Lifelong Learning Centre in Glasgow works with many women returnees and asylum seekers.

Key Lesson Learned: Recognize that not everyone is career-oriented and seeking accreditation. Provide flexible, short courses, which incorporate creative elements. These courses can serve as a 'platform' for people who will later pursue more 'serious' training. See their story on this site for more lessons.

The Sussex Community Information Project provides a community ICT Training Network which supports an e-mail list for trainers and provides a survey form that serves as a community audit of training resources and needs.

Key Lesson Learned: ICT trainers have similar concerns and can learn from one another - both online and in face-to-face meetings. In the words of one practitioner "others knew an answer to a problem I would have had to research for hours".