Executive Summary:

Tech skills and digital knowledge is crucial in the 21st century. Thus, it is very important to create a proper environment and opportunities for students to obtain these vital skills to be prepared for future jobs and careers. Conditions of computer labs in Yerevan are significantly better than those in the regions. In village schools the situation is particularly worse. According to the exploratory research done by American University of Armenia (2012) 44% of learners mention that there are not enough computers in the school for all. Additionally, most pupils (89%) would like to use computer labs more frequently, but often it is not encouraged by the teachers or administration. To tackle this issue, Yerevan Hub initiated a “Computer Labs for learners” project, in cooperation with Ucom telecommunication company. The replaced computers at the company, that were still in good shape, were donated to establish two computer labs in the city of Gyumri and Bagaran village.

 

Gyumri Lab - 11 computers were installed in the orphanage in Gyumri after Fridtjof Nansen, which did not have any computer room for over 100 kids. Additionally, Yerevan Hub organized courses on basic computer literacy for children in partnership with the Gyumri Technological Center.

 

Bagaran Lab - 4 computers were installed in the school of the bordering village Bagaran. In collaboration with Teach for Armenia, Armath Engineering Laboratory was established there by providing an opportunity for children to develop their skills in engineering and robotics.

 

Goals:

- Provide an opportunity for children to develop their knowledge and skills by using computer labs.

- Develop computer literacy, engineering and robotics related skills.

 

Impact:

- 192 children benefited from the access to computer labs.

- 2 computer labs that provide additional extracurricular courses on computer literacy, engineering and robotics.

 

Organizations and Stakeholders:

Ucom telecommunication company

Orphanage after Fridtjof Nansen

Gyumri Technological Center

Bagaran Secondary School

Teach for Armenia

Armath Engineering Laboratories