"The communication and technology center improves retention and, most importantly, builds trust with teachers and parents." - ConnectED Fellow, Flor Morales
The Challenge
Asunción Manzanales is an impoverished rural area with many challenges affecting the community and specifically children and youth’s education. There are over 160 students attending the community elementary school, which faces significant hurdles such as lack of teacher training and modern methodology, lack of computer lab and technology classes, and lack of pedagogical materials, among others. All these result in low motivation, high levels of absenteeism/school dropout, and poor learning outcomes, which dim prospects for acquiring formal sector entry-level employment, commonly resulting in migration.
The Solution
With the support of her community, Fellow Flor, implemented a vision to advance student learning outcomes through access to a communication and technology center equipped with effective tools and innovative teaching methods. The goal of the center is to facilitate the development of student skills and knowledge to contribute to improved efficiency and productivity in their schoolwork, as well as increases their interest in academic activities. In 2021, an old classroom was remodeled and equipped 15 Chromebooks, computer desks, a printer, a Raspberry Pi device, and related accessories. The center now provides students with access to computer training and open educational resources. In line with modern educational practices, the center also addresses education gaps at school by engaging students through different learning platforms.
The Impact
The communication and technology center improves retention and, most importantly, builds trust with both teachers and parents. Since the project began implementation in 2021, and despite the limitations imposed by the pandemic, a computer teacher hired by the community has trained 142 students. Flor, along with the parents’ association, are working with the Municipality to hire a permanent computer teacher to run the center and contribute to secure the long-term sustainability of the project.