Computers in Homes is co-ordinated by 2020 Communications Trust. Schools and families interested in the programme are advised to visit www.computersinhomes.org.nz.
Patricia Avenue a first for Computers in Homes
Patricia Avenue staff present a Computers In Homes certificate
Hamilton’s Patricia Avenue Special School became the first school of its type to join the national Computers in Homes programme in June 2008.
Seven parents and their special needs children graduated from the programme in June and took their new pcs home after completing their 20 hour course of basic computer training including word processing, emailing and using the internet, conducted at the school. The training aims to empower parents in the programme to become actively involved in their children’s learning, as well as increasing their own employment opportunities and confidence.
Computers in Homes National Co-ordinator, Di Das, said Patricia Avenue was the first school for children with special needs to join the Ministry of Education funded programme and the more than 4000 families around New Zealand who have received recycled computers, six months of free internet access, computer training and technical support.
The programme is an initiative of the National 2020 Communications Trust and the Patricia Avenue Special School project was brought about by the Waikato 2020 Communications Trust with initial support from Wintec.
Patricia Avenue Principal Jill Weidenbohm said joining Computers in Homes would make a real difference to the seven families involved.
“It supports them in dealing with the additional challenges that families who have a child with disability face in so many ways, including financial stress and isolation. This initiative is a real blessing for them. My staff have told me what a buzz they have had from seeing the joy and ‘rearing to go’ attitude in the families.”
Ms Das estimated that more than 100,000 New Zealand families with school-aged children in low-decile areas (deciles 1-3) don’t have a computer at home.
“Our aim is to empower families to become active participants in the online world. The programme is a real win for schools and families and provides them with access to technology they wouldn’t otherwise be able to afford, and the support necessary to succeed. It focuses on strengthening links between families and schools to lift education levels of children and parents in low income communities,” she said.
Results from the programme have included employment success, upskilling and promotions in current employment, and continued education in more advanced computer courses. Ms Das said the programme had also seen a number of parents actively engaging with their school for the first time.
“We receive numerous emails of thanks from participants in the programme. It opens up a whole new world of opportunity with some parents completing university degrees and other qualifications in teaching, social work, computing and the arts,” Ms Das said.
“More importantly the programme strengthens that important link between the children, their family, and the school,” she concluded.