PRIMARY SCHOOL COMPUTER CLASSES INITIATIVE FOR AFRICA (PSCCI)

Introduction
The transformation of the world into one global village emphasized the gap between those that have and those that do not.
Information Communication Technologies (ICT) dominate most disciplines in the developed world. Lack of such technologies in developing countries is a major drawback almost insuring that they do not close the gap.
There is a clear and significant difference in technological availability between the northern and southern (excluding Australia) hemispheres. This requires a bold change.
We at SKY 2 NET and HEIDI ARAD Architecture & Interior Design are working on creating the environment and tools to make it happen i.e. to bring ICT literacy to the developing countries in the earliest stage possible.

Why?
Supplying developing countries with the means and knowledge available in the developed world will allow for communication, mutual learning, and exchange of ideas…. 'leveling the playing field'. The main advantages of ICT in this are that users whom aquire basic skills gain access to real time information and limitless fields of knowledge, communication that removes geographical obstacles and an individualized interactive curriculum. All this requires minimal extra costs after the initial investment thus being environmentally conscious.

Teachers and computers:
It is vital for teachers to understand why technology is being adopted and how they can integrate it into their instruction. Computer based education relies on new approach to learning. Computers encourage activity- based learning, thus encouraging activity- based curriculum. *
Teachers can share information, class plans, and questions with their peers in remote places. An endless library of on-line lectures allows them to expand teaching beyond their own area of expertise.

How?
Considerations and Objectives
1. Multipurpose community center – the computer classroom can be of use to the entire community after-hours. This important investment should be considered a community resource raising education and skill level of all its members.**

2. Use of computers and software especially designed as educational tools that have very low electricity consumption.

3. Internet connectivity – connecting users to the World Wide Web, opening all the available knowledge, opportunities and lines of communication.
Flexibility of communication means (satellite, wireless, fiber or DSL).

4. Use of solar energy as main power supply – more reliable than other available alternatives and more economic than generators in the long run.

5. Construction of the classroom in remote areas relies on local building materials, reducing costs and maintaining ecological balance.


References:
* Bakia, M. (2005) The Cost of Computers in Classrooms: Data from Developing Countries, Retrieved July 10, 2008 from http://classroomtco.cosn.org/cic.pdf
** Osin, L. (1998) Computers in Education in Developing Countries:
Why and How?, Retrieved July 10, 2008 from http://www.pitt.edu/~jeregall/pdf/v3n1.pdf