Limerick City Community ICT Steering Group would like to issue an open invitation to all Limerick based Community Grouyps to participate in our upcoming Community Technology Fair.
The event is part of the groups’ strategy to promote the benefits of technology in everyday life (home, sports and leisure, education, work etc). It will take place in Thomond Park Conference Centre on Saturday 1st November 2008 from 11.00 a.m. to 4.00 p.m.. The fair which is supported by funding from the Mid-West Regional Authority and Limerick Regeneration will feature 50 Interactive displays and a number of short snappy informal ‘How to’ workshops in break-out rooms. Most of the interactive displays will be built by community groups assisted by mentors from City of Limerick VEC, UL and LIT. There will also be private sector displays from technology companies such as Microsoft, Adobe, Nintendo, Bebo etc. For your information, I include a detailed description of the background and rationale for the event at the footer of this email, and also attach a link to a research report commissioned by our group earlier this year.
We are extremely grateful for the support of Munster Rugby and Thomond Park to date with this event including committing to (a) the Heineken Cup being available on the day, (b) Thomond Park opening their new Interactive Museum on the day as part of the event and (c) Munster Rugby Development taking a stand on the day highlighting the role of technology in the coaching and analysis of sport.
We would like to invite Community Groups to participate in the event by putting together a display, which highlights an example of a simple, yet innovative use of technology. The displays must engage with people and be truly interactive. Ideally people should not just see the technology in action but actually learn how to use it. The focus should be on practical and fun activities.
If you are interested in participating in the event please contact Elaine Doyle edoyle@paulpartnership.ie by Friday the 25th September 2008. For a list of some suggested ideas for stands on the day please click on this link http://techpromotion.wikispaces.com/
If you would like to participate in the event, but are unsure which technology to showcase or would like some support in advance of the event, an event briefing on the Fair will take place on Tuesday the 30th September at 2.00 p.m. in Our Lady of Lourdes Action Centre. If you would like to participate in the event but are not sure what your stand might consist of, please come along to the session. We will be providing mentors from the VEC, LIT and UL who will, where requested, support groups in advance of the event and/or on the day. We will also provide examples of ideas for stands. It also may be possible for a number of community groups to come together to put build a display. We would appreciate it if you could email Elaine (again by Friday the 25th )to let us know if you will be attend the briefing.
If you know of other community groups who may be interested in taking part in event, please let us know.
Monday, September 22, 2008
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
IT Survey of Community/Voluntary Organisations & Small Enterprises
Our Lady of Lourdes Community Services Group is conducting research into the IT needs of community and voluntary organisations and small enterprises in
As part of this study, all community and voluntary organisations are invited to complete a questionnaire about their current and future IT requirements. The data gathered will be used to establish the types of services needed and to determine how best to deliver low-cost solutions to meet these needs. All responses will be treated confidentially and individual responses will not be published.
The questionnaire is available online at http://tinyurl.com/516hut. It can be completed by the person responsible for ITin an organisation or if this is not possible by someone who is working/volunteering with the organisation.
All not-for-profit organisations (including schools, sports clubs, etc.) as well as community/small enterprises are invited to complete the questionnaire. This will help to establish the breadth of the market for low-cost IT service delivery in Limerick.
This research will also feed into the development of the Community ICT strategy for
Please take the time to fill in the questionnaire, and to tell others about it. This will help Our Lady of Lourdes Community Services Group to help you and other organisations meet their IT needs.
Monday, June 9, 2008
Final Techfast-30th May 2008
Many thanks to Fergal McGrath for his interesting presentation at our Final Techfast presentation. Fergal spoke about attitudes and motivational factors as critical to encourage take up of Technology. He said the focus should really be on the person rather than the technology. It was critical he said to find a hook, something which people were interested in, as opposed to encouraging Technology for Technology sake. Once people were interested, the nature of the technology as exploratory would encourage and entice to further explore and use. The learning curve with Technology is small, it is the relevance which is critical. The challenge is less how to use the Technology and more why would people want to use the Technology.
Fergal also spoke about the need to foster and rekindle a culture of giving back to the community. He gave examples of places in the USA where he spent considerable time working within communities. He was delighted by the spirit of volunteerism and community spirit which prevails in parts of the USA. He noted that people love to give back especially when it comes to information to share. It was suggested from the floor that volunteerism in Ireland should start in the schools. It is important to learn the idea of community service and involvement at a young age. The culture of volunteerism can be contagious and thus encourage others to get involved. There is never a shortage of opportunities to give back and the key is to match up passions with opportunities. Fergal encouraged the group to experiment and keeping trying new ideas especially with the changing nature of Technology.
Acquiring familiarity with computers and adapting to Technology depends not only on individual attributes, but crucially also on contextual factors. People come in contact with digital technologies via their family and friendship networks as well as at their workplace, colleges and schools. Informal advice and support are crucial to acquiring basic computing skills, and where neighbours and friends use internet, this can facilitate the learning process. Every computer literate individual in a disadvantaged area constitutes a valuable resource for the local community, as he or she can potentially help others to overcome their fears and difficulties in relation to the new digital technologies. Thus creating a critical mass of web users can create an e-community where many opportunites may arise.
Fergal also spoke about the need to foster and rekindle a culture of giving back to the community. He gave examples of places in the USA where he spent considerable time working within communities. He was delighted by the spirit of volunteerism and community spirit which prevails in parts of the USA. He noted that people love to give back especially when it comes to information to share. It was suggested from the floor that volunteerism in Ireland should start in the schools. It is important to learn the idea of community service and involvement at a young age. The culture of volunteerism can be contagious and thus encourage others to get involved. There is never a shortage of opportunities to give back and the key is to match up passions with opportunities. Fergal encouraged the group to experiment and keeping trying new ideas especially with the changing nature of Technology.
Acquiring familiarity with computers and adapting to Technology depends not only on individual attributes, but crucially also on contextual factors. People come in contact with digital technologies via their family and friendship networks as well as at their workplace, colleges and schools. Informal advice and support are crucial to acquiring basic computing skills, and where neighbours and friends use internet, this can facilitate the learning process. Every computer literate individual in a disadvantaged area constitutes a valuable resource for the local community, as he or she can potentially help others to overcome their fears and difficulties in relation to the new digital technologies. Thus creating a critical mass of web users can create an e-community where many opportunites may arise.
Friday, May 23, 2008
Third Techfast - 'a synopsis'
Thanks to Colm Butler for this mornings’ excellent thought-provoking overview on eInclusion from a national policy perspective.
The following is my attempt to post the key points I picked up from his input so feel free to correct me or to offer alternative interpretations of Colms' input.
Colm started by giving some background in relation to eGovernment in Ireland. He said the initial approach was supply led – focused on pushing content online. Mistakes had been made but these mistakes were part of a learning process. The CSO statistics highlighted (as does the Limerick research) that many people were still not engaging. He spoke of the need to learn from analysis and had hoped that the national Research Group would play a key role in this regard.
In some cases the take-up by government agencies was slow. Colm concluded that a business case needed to be made and that the focus should not be on the technology, rather on getting government to do it better. It needs to be about optimisation of performance – Many projects failed because the focus was on technology not on reform. Technology is only a part of any project – people and the culture of the organisation are also critically important to the success of initiatives.
Colm argued that if this is true of eGovernment- it is equally true of eInclusion. He highlighted the danger of labeling people as digitally excluded. The Limerick research identified large numbers of people who did not identify technology as relevant to their lives, yet they were using mobile phone technology daily. Telling people that they are excluded is not the best approach – it defines them (often incorrectly) in terms of what they cannot do, or are excluded from. He highlighted the ABCD (Asset Based Community Development) approach of John McKnight as an approach which focuses on assets rather than real or perceived deficiencies. Telling people that they are not part of a new digital world is not terribly useful.
Colm identified the real need to adopt a multi-pronged approach to eInclusion. Yes - we should show people how to use technology and show them how wonderful it is but any response must be contextualized. The industry tends to talk in jargon (Ghz, Mb etc.) rather than telling people what the technology can do. He highlighted the Home Computer Initiative (HCI) which the ISPU developed with the credit unions as a good example of a demand-centered approach.
Following the input there was a short Q&A.
Q - Who will champion eInclusion politically?
Ans -Sean Power is the new minister with responsibility for eInclusion and therefore the political champion for its cause.
Q - Do those at the cutting edge (tutors/community workers etc.)really understand how technology can enhance their own work?
Ans -Colm suggested that these were the people who should be targeted through initiatives as they can be more easily reached and can have an impact through their work.
Q – How can we change the values of those who do not embrace technology?
Ans. – You cannot change the values of people– you should must identify what the values are and build your projects/initiatives in response to them
Q - If government is really serious about eInclusion – shouldn’t money be invested in innovation for the adult and further education sector and community development sector as has happened at third level
Ans. – Colm supported the idea a focus on innovation.
The following is my attempt to post the key points I picked up from his input so feel free to correct me or to offer alternative interpretations of Colms' input.
Colm started by giving some background in relation to eGovernment in Ireland. He said the initial approach was supply led – focused on pushing content online. Mistakes had been made but these mistakes were part of a learning process. The CSO statistics highlighted (as does the Limerick research) that many people were still not engaging. He spoke of the need to learn from analysis and had hoped that the national Research Group would play a key role in this regard.
In some cases the take-up by government agencies was slow. Colm concluded that a business case needed to be made and that the focus should not be on the technology, rather on getting government to do it better. It needs to be about optimisation of performance – Many projects failed because the focus was on technology not on reform. Technology is only a part of any project – people and the culture of the organisation are also critically important to the success of initiatives.
Colm argued that if this is true of eGovernment- it is equally true of eInclusion. He highlighted the danger of labeling people as digitally excluded. The Limerick research identified large numbers of people who did not identify technology as relevant to their lives, yet they were using mobile phone technology daily. Telling people that they are excluded is not the best approach – it defines them (often incorrectly) in terms of what they cannot do, or are excluded from. He highlighted the ABCD (Asset Based Community Development) approach of John McKnight as an approach which focuses on assets rather than real or perceived deficiencies. Telling people that they are not part of a new digital world is not terribly useful.
Colm identified the real need to adopt a multi-pronged approach to eInclusion. Yes - we should show people how to use technology and show them how wonderful it is but any response must be contextualized. The industry tends to talk in jargon (Ghz, Mb etc.) rather than telling people what the technology can do. He highlighted the Home Computer Initiative (HCI) which the ISPU developed with the credit unions as a good example of a demand-centered approach.
Following the input there was a short Q&A.
Q - Who will champion eInclusion politically?
Ans -Sean Power is the new minister with responsibility for eInclusion and therefore the political champion for its cause.
Q - Do those at the cutting edge (tutors/community workers etc.)really understand how technology can enhance their own work?
Ans -Colm suggested that these were the people who should be targeted through initiatives as they can be more easily reached and can have an impact through their work.
Q – How can we change the values of those who do not embrace technology?
Ans. – You cannot change the values of people– you should must identify what the values are and build your projects/initiatives in response to them
Q - If government is really serious about eInclusion – shouldn’t money be invested in innovation for the adult and further education sector and community development sector as has happened at third level
Ans. – Colm supported the idea a focus on innovation.
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Third Techfast
The third techfast will take place on Friday next 23rd May. This Friday Colm Butler, Director of Information Society Policy Unit at the Department of the Taoiseach will present ‘E-Inclusion-a national perspective’. Colms role is to promote the public policy agenda for the development of the Information Society in Ireland. The policies are designed to ensure that modern technologies are universally accessible and that everyone has an opportunity to participate in a society being increasingly impacted by technologies that are opening up new possibilities for innovation in government, commerce and in all sectors of society. Colm has long been a friend to the Community ICT Steering Group in Limerick and we very much look forward to his input.
There are still a limited number of places available so if you are interested in coming along you might email me at brendanryan@clvec.ie as Elaine is away on leave this week.
Please keep on commenting on this blog as your input is vital to the ongoing development of our new strategy.
There are still a limited number of places available so if you are interested in coming along you might email me at brendanryan@clvec.ie as Elaine is away on leave this week.
Please keep on commenting on this blog as your input is vital to the ongoing development of our new strategy.
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
Techfast 16th May, 2008
Gerard Walker is Senior Policy advisor within ForFás. He is responsible for project management, research and policy support to the Expert Group on Future skills needs. Forfás is the government group which provides policy advice on enterprise, trade, science, technology and innovation.
Gerard spoke about a national vision of Ireland in 2020; possessing a well educated and highly skilled population which contributes to a competitive, innovation-driven, knowledge based, participative and inclusive society. Within the current workforce, an additional 500,000 people need to be upskilled through either education or training.
He also mentioned that increased emphasis needs to be placed on generic skills like:
· Basic/Fundamental skills such as using information Technology, literacy, using numbers.
· People related skills such as communication, interpersonal, team working, customer-service skills; and
· Conceptual skills such as collecting and organising information, problem solving, planning and organising learning to learn skills, motivation and creativity skills.
There are challenges for the government, Education and Training providers and Employers
Some of the challenges for Education and Training providers:
1. Provision of Education and Training to be flexible and responsive and reflect the needs of individuals and enterprise.
2. Develop suitable mechanisms for interaction between enterprise and education providers.
3. Rapid spread of emerging skills and technologies-effect on sectors and occupations-need to ensure inclusive E-inclusion learning.
4. Emphasis on careers guidance and dissemination labour market information.
Within the formal education system retention rates to leaving certificate need to reach 90% (current rate 82%) by 2020. The progression rate from second to third level should increase to 72% (current rate 55%). In 2020, 94% of thepopulation aged 20-24 should have a second level qualification (current rate 86%).
Throughout his presentation he emphasised the need to ensure that those in the workforce and society have the skills to take advantage of these changes in the labour force. Furthermore, ICT skills are an integral part of the knowledge based economy and their promotion is important. They are skills which are workplace requirement at all levels-higher professional, manufacturing, service sector and administrative positions. ICT is been used to modernise on-line services for citizens, such as issuing passports, birth certificates and payment of road taxes etc. E-business is a growing area, with an increasing level of services and goods been purchased over the internet.
This advance of ICT means that it is important to gain generic-basic ICT Literacy in the use of the most common PC application and use of the Internet. It is also important that ICT skills are developed in late adopters in the information Society. Computer literacy is as necessary today as where reading and writing skills in the previous decade.
*********************************
Feedback after the presentation.....
-Educational and Training needs to respond to changing economic needs
-Address the issue of early school leavers. According to the socio-economic and demographic profile of Limerick City and suburbs[1], based on the 2006 Census of Population. Just under two-thirds of the population in the Limerick City area (over the age of 15) has at least an upper second level education (i.e. Leaving Certificate or equivalent) or higher. However, for one fifth of the population (over the age of 15), their highest level of education is the Junior Certification or equivalent, while 16% have just a primary level education. Just under 1% reported that they have no formal education.
-Structures based on traditional model of education
-One billion euro spent on training and education each year. How much has informal learning received, what is education and training sector still in need of huge re structure and changes?
-Investment needed in training personnel in early childhood (leavers)
-Are there groups nationally working on the ground that community workers in Limerick could connect with?
-One billion euro spent on training and education each year. How much has informal learning received, what is education and training sector still in need of huge re structure and changes?
-Investment needed in training personnel in early childhood (leavers)
-Are there groups nationally working on the ground that community workers in Limerick could connect with?
-We need to fund E&T strategies-training vouchers, individual training accounts
-Where will money come from in terms of upskilling?
-Is there a gender divide in E&T, yes but IT has changed all that.
-2020-'How do you change perceptions of ‘the value of education.' Attitudes shift when you expose people over a period of time to what education has to offer. In disadvantaged areas it is firstly important to recognise where people are coming from.
-Look at non- formal education approach
-Little money been spent in Ireland into innovation in informal learning.
-Is there a problem with measuring informal learning success?
-Is the solution in the learning-tutor make assessment invisible!
-2020-'How do you change perceptions of ‘the value of education.' Attitudes shift when you expose people over a period of time to what education has to offer. In disadvantaged areas it is firstly important to recognise where people are coming from.
-Look at non- formal education approach
-Little money been spent in Ireland into innovation in informal learning.
-Is there a problem with measuring informal learning success?
-Is the solution in the learning-tutor make assessment invisible!
Thursday, May 15, 2008
Useful links
For your information as a follow-up to the previous post by Elaine and the follow-up comment from Aine Lyne, the following are 2 useful links
www.learnlocal.ie - CLVECs Community learning site (using moodle)
www.communitylink.ie/kiosks - Hompage for the Community Based Kiosks and the link for information on all Learning Opportunities available in communities, in the City and beyond.
PS - Great to see the Blog taking off - 25 contributions to date (posts and comments) - We are really building an invaluable resource to help our planning process so thanks to everybody whi is contributing and keep it up by continueing to add your comments.
Tomorrows Techfast input from Gerard Walker promises to focus our minds on the rapid pace of change globally and how we can best respond to the new emerging challenges.
www.learnlocal.ie - CLVECs Community learning site (using moodle)
www.communitylink.ie/kiosks - Hompage for the Community Based Kiosks and the link for information on all Learning Opportunities available in communities, in the City and beyond.
PS - Great to see the Blog taking off - 25 contributions to date (posts and comments) - We are really building an invaluable resource to help our planning process so thanks to everybody whi is contributing and keep it up by continueing to add your comments.
Tomorrows Techfast input from Gerard Walker promises to focus our minds on the rapid pace of change globally and how we can best respond to the new emerging challenges.
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
Community Update
Yesterday, May 14th I attended the Cluster meeting in Southill. These meetings are held once a year to dicuss allocation of classes and timetables by the VEC. It was great to hear feedback from the Southill community network about the success of technology and digital skills uptake and interest within the community. For example, the local schools had huge success with the 'surf to learn' classes for parents and their children and called for more intergenerational learning schemes to be initiated. The digital photography courses was very popular for young males and many are looking to go to an advanced level. Is was agreed that running information classes for parents about Bebo would be worth planning for next roll out. The Community Adult Education group have in response to the ICT research decided to start a new course called 'Computers for the Terrified.' Likewise the ALSS have rolled out a texting and Internet and emailing course. It is fantastic to see such a practical and quick response to our research. Well done and thanks to all involved!!
Monday, May 12, 2008
Techfast 2008-May 9th
Our short presentation kicked off with Jim Breen who is the CEO of Pulse learning. Jim came to talk about inclusive e-learning and gave an inspiration talk about his own experiences and move into a career in Technology. This session was very much about how we could be more inclusive and apply technology to closing the digital divide. We need to have a compelling vision of how becoming a digital community will benefit the community and the individuals in it - tackling social deprivation and widening opportunities. Feedback from individuals and groups will allow us to develop an achievable and practical plan for reaching that vision.
Here are some of the ideas from Friday morning!
What would make people interested?
-Sense of achievement
-Power of knowledge
-Currency
-Social networking
Provide the tools
-I phone in every hand
-Formal learning is decaying! Informal learning solutions needed.
-Build off other successes---learn from tried and tested
-Keep language jargon free
-Go for the most ambitious idea- even if it is not likely to succeed, work on area where there is an interest and magnify success. Success feeds off ambition!
-Report---problems with report in that people can’t read-how to deal with literacy problems
-Technology ---fear amongst Teachers about using Technology. Once the first step is made the learning curve to adapt technology is small.
-Culture change to technology---technology embrace by all (used as a way to improve literacy.)
-Create a whole network of learning in community---a critical mass of web users. Communities of learners.
-Break the taboos----use technology as a tool rather than technology for technology sake.
-Free wireless broadband---pay people to use it---would that work?
-Google and social networking---currency and value as technologies
-Internet --supports social networking
-Corporate world---technology given where they need to do the job
-Focus on the Interest, not the internet and in order to see, first engage!
The plan is nothing, planning is everything.
All of these should come under an umbrella where there is a broad partnership which includes the key players (e.g. local authority, schools, private sector etc) who can make the initiative happen in our community. The hope is that we can create a comprehensive and sustainable future management plan.
Our short presentation kicked off with Jim Breen who is the CEO of Pulse learning. Jim came to talk about inclusive e-learning and gave an inspiration talk about his own experiences and move into a career in Technology. This session was very much about how we could be more inclusive and apply technology to closing the digital divide. We need to have a compelling vision of how becoming a digital community will benefit the community and the individuals in it - tackling social deprivation and widening opportunities. Feedback from individuals and groups will allow us to develop an achievable and practical plan for reaching that vision.
Here are some of the ideas from Friday morning!
What would make people interested?
-Sense of achievement
-Power of knowledge
-Currency
-Social networking
Provide the tools
-I phone in every hand
-Formal learning is decaying! Informal learning solutions needed.
-Build off other successes---learn from tried and tested
-Keep language jargon free
-Go for the most ambitious idea- even if it is not likely to succeed, work on area where there is an interest and magnify success. Success feeds off ambition!
-Report---problems with report in that people can’t read-how to deal with literacy problems
-Technology ---fear amongst Teachers about using Technology. Once the first step is made the learning curve to adapt technology is small.
-Culture change to technology---technology embrace by all (used as a way to improve literacy.)
-Create a whole network of learning in community---a critical mass of web users. Communities of learners.
-Break the taboos----use technology as a tool rather than technology for technology sake.
-Free wireless broadband---pay people to use it---would that work?
-Google and social networking---currency and value as technologies
-Internet --supports social networking
-Corporate world---technology given where they need to do the job
-Focus on the Interest, not the internet and in order to see, first engage!
The plan is nothing, planning is everything.
All of these should come under an umbrella where there is a broad partnership which includes the key players (e.g. local authority, schools, private sector etc) who can make the initiative happen in our community. The hope is that we can create a comprehensive and sustainable future management plan.
Monday, May 5, 2008
Progressing the new Strategic Plan - Emerging Themes
The Steering Group met yesterday afternoon to reflect on the report of the round table discussions which took place at the launch of the research . As a result of this reflection the following were identified as key emerging themes / potential strategic priorities for the new plan which will provide a framework for Limerick Community ICT Steering Group to respond to the issues identified by the research and further elaboarated in the round table discussions.
1) AWARENESS
It was agreed that significant work will need to be done on the area of awareness raising of the benefits of ICT and that this will need to be accompanied with lots of encouragement and supported opportunities to embrace the various forms of ICT. This work needs to be done within the Steering Group, with community centres, education and service providers as well as among the target group of those identified in the research if the key aim of addressing the attitudinal barriers identified is to be met.
2) EDUCATION AND TRAINING
The key concern here is to work towards the integration of ICT into all forms of learning opportunities.
3) EMBRACING ICT IN DAILY PRACTISE WITHIN COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
WORK
The key concern here is to provide opportunities, resources and support to those within the community setting to embrace ICT as part of the day to day work and so be resourced to support those curently excluded to have more and more opportunities to experience the direct benifits of ICT.
4) INFRASTRUCTURE
The opportunities identified as important above can only become a reality if the the physical infrastucure is there. The concern is to bring the best tools available to bear on the target communties and to develop models of best practise in that regard.
5) BUILDING STRATEGIC ALLIANCES
Cutting accross all of the above is the commitment to building strategic alliances and working in partnership in responding to the issues raised by the research. As the planning continues towards firming up strategic priorites, agreeing objectives and identifying actions it will become clearer which agencies , organisations and groups are best placed to work with the ICT Steering Group on planning and delivering individual responses to particular issues.
6) TECHNICAL SUPPORT
Also cutting accross all of the above is a priority commitment to the provision of appropriate techincal support .
YOUR FEEDBACK ON THE ABOVE IS MOST WELCOME
Have we ommitted something that is key?
Do you have a question or a comment re any of the above?
Please post your comments and so participate in a very real way in the development of the strategic plan.
With thanks
1) AWARENESS
It was agreed that significant work will need to be done on the area of awareness raising of the benefits of ICT and that this will need to be accompanied with lots of encouragement and supported opportunities to embrace the various forms of ICT. This work needs to be done within the Steering Group, with community centres, education and service providers as well as among the target group of those identified in the research if the key aim of addressing the attitudinal barriers identified is to be met.
2) EDUCATION AND TRAINING
The key concern here is to work towards the integration of ICT into all forms of learning opportunities.
3) EMBRACING ICT IN DAILY PRACTISE WITHIN COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
WORK
The key concern here is to provide opportunities, resources and support to those within the community setting to embrace ICT as part of the day to day work and so be resourced to support those curently excluded to have more and more opportunities to experience the direct benifits of ICT.
4) INFRASTRUCTURE
The opportunities identified as important above can only become a reality if the the physical infrastucure is there. The concern is to bring the best tools available to bear on the target communties and to develop models of best practise in that regard.
5) BUILDING STRATEGIC ALLIANCES
Cutting accross all of the above is the commitment to building strategic alliances and working in partnership in responding to the issues raised by the research. As the planning continues towards firming up strategic priorites, agreeing objectives and identifying actions it will become clearer which agencies , organisations and groups are best placed to work with the ICT Steering Group on planning and delivering individual responses to particular issues.
6) TECHNICAL SUPPORT
Also cutting accross all of the above is a priority commitment to the provision of appropriate techincal support .
YOUR FEEDBACK ON THE ABOVE IS MOST WELCOME
Have we ommitted something that is key?
Do you have a question or a comment re any of the above?
Please post your comments and so participate in a very real way in the development of the strategic plan.
With thanks
Friday, May 2, 2008
Notes from working groups
Below please find a summary of the main themes and ideas emerging from the groupwork on 4th April. A Full version report including the background, purpose,methods and outputs from the day are available full notes
Summary Notes
Summary of key Issues / Challenges From Working Groups (April 4, 2008)
Barriers to the successsful Adoption of ICT
Attitudinal The perceived lack of relevance of ICT within the target communities was the key barrier to inclusion identified. Fear was also identified as a significant barrier.
Awareness Related to the attitudinal barrier is the lack of awareness of the benefits of ICT and information in relation to how much it already is a part of peoples lives
Physical Adequate physical access to computers was identified as another key barrier.
Financial Related to the physical barrier is the identified financial barrier namely the cost of computers/ internet access/ technical support
Specific There was strong feedback from the round table discussions in relation to the need to understand and respond to the particular barriers experienced by specific target groups – women, young people, older people
Educational Issues
ICT needs to be integrated into all educational opportunities
The focus needs to be on skills for life, and delivery of training needs to be flexible, and of immediate relevance
There needs to be strong collaboration between all stakeholders (education providers and the community sector)
Poor literacy skills need to be addressed, and the use of jargon needs to be minimised
Provision of courses/ training is not enough – it is imperative that there is appropriate technical back up for individuals, families, and those working in the community sector
In education provision there needs to be a move towards learner driven approaches, a move from teaching to resourcing/ facilitating
Resources
Resource needs to adequately respond to the issues raised by the research were identified by schools, adult education providers, and community centres
Volunteers were identified as a possible key resource, as was the corporate sector.
Common Ideas/ Emerging Themes
1) There was strong feedback that the Limerick Community ICT Steering Group will need to learn from others – for example to contact those involved with the Ennis experiment
2) A key focus of the response needs to be focussed on the attitudinal barriers – the need for fun approaches to demystify and show the relevance and benefits of ICT to target groups.
3) The response will also need to identify and respect that some people will choose not to engage with ICT
4) There needs to be a creative approach to revisioning ICT education provision with increased emphasis on informal, flexible, and immediately relevant training that is cognizant of literacy needs and that minimises jargon without dumbing down the content.
5) Appropriate access to computers within the community with adequate technical support needs to be planned, resourced and delivered.
6) Responses to the issues and needs identified will best be developed with a collaborative approach between the education, community and corporate sectors
7) Financial resources will need to be identified to respond to the issues and needs identified
Next steps
The information gathered during today will used to further explore the issues identified and to develop the key strategic responses to the issues and challenges identified in the research. Engagement will continue through this blog and through updates at each of the four breakfast meetings. Your feedback will help us shape and develop the startegic plan.
Barriers to the successsful Adoption of ICT
Attitudinal The perceived lack of relevance of ICT within the target communities was the key barrier to inclusion identified. Fear was also identified as a significant barrier.
Awareness Related to the attitudinal barrier is the lack of awareness of the benefits of ICT and information in relation to how much it already is a part of peoples lives
Physical Adequate physical access to computers was identified as another key barrier.
Financial Related to the physical barrier is the identified financial barrier namely the cost of computers/ internet access/ technical support
Specific There was strong feedback from the round table discussions in relation to the need to understand and respond to the particular barriers experienced by specific target groups – women, young people, older people
Educational Issues
ICT needs to be integrated into all educational opportunities
The focus needs to be on skills for life, and delivery of training needs to be flexible, and of immediate relevance
There needs to be strong collaboration between all stakeholders (education providers and the community sector)
Poor literacy skills need to be addressed, and the use of jargon needs to be minimised
Provision of courses/ training is not enough – it is imperative that there is appropriate technical back up for individuals, families, and those working in the community sector
In education provision there needs to be a move towards learner driven approaches, a move from teaching to resourcing/ facilitating
Resources
Resource needs to adequately respond to the issues raised by the research were identified by schools, adult education providers, and community centres
Volunteers were identified as a possible key resource, as was the corporate sector.
Common Ideas/ Emerging Themes
1) There was strong feedback that the Limerick Community ICT Steering Group will need to learn from others – for example to contact those involved with the Ennis experiment
2) A key focus of the response needs to be focussed on the attitudinal barriers – the need for fun approaches to demystify and show the relevance and benefits of ICT to target groups.
3) The response will also need to identify and respect that some people will choose not to engage with ICT
4) There needs to be a creative approach to revisioning ICT education provision with increased emphasis on informal, flexible, and immediately relevant training that is cognizant of literacy needs and that minimises jargon without dumbing down the content.
5) Appropriate access to computers within the community with adequate technical support needs to be planned, resourced and delivered.
6) Responses to the issues and needs identified will best be developed with a collaborative approach between the education, community and corporate sectors
7) Financial resources will need to be identified to respond to the issues and needs identified
Next steps
The information gathered during today will used to further explore the issues identified and to develop the key strategic responses to the issues and challenges identified in the research. Engagement will continue through this blog and through updates at each of the four breakfast meetings. Your feedback will help us shape and develop the startegic plan.
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Thank you for participating in the Round Table Discussions at the Research Launch on April 4th
Report from the Round Table Discussion which took place at the Report Launch and Presentation of Key Findings and Issues
Absolute Hotel, Limerick April 4th 2008
BACKGROUND
Limerick City Community ICT Steering Group
The Limerick City Community ICT Steering Group which was formed in 2001 is a network consisting of PAUL Partnership, the City of Limerick Vocational Educational Committee (CLVEC), and representatives from five community centres in socially and economically disadvantaged areas in Limerick City (Southill, Our Lady of Lourdes, Moyross, Ballynanty and St Marys)
The overall aim of the group is to promote and support collaborative and innovative approaches to the use of ICT in Communities ‘at risk’ of digital exclusion in Limerick City. It has the following five objectives:
1) Adopt collaborative approaches to planning for and implementing ICT focussed initiatives
2) Maximise the use of technology in designated community locations through the provision of practical supports
3) Promote user-friendly approaches to the introduction and development of ICT’s in communities
4) Build the ‘digital capacity’ of target communities
5) Pilot innovative responses to ‘digital exclusion’ based on sound evidence of need
The Research
Both Limerick City Community ICT and Limerick Employment Pact (LEP) recognised the need to address what they saw as the growing ‘digital divide’ and the exclusion of disadvantaged communities in Limerick City from the information society. As little is known about the exact nature and extent of this form of exclusion locally, the Limerick City Community ICT Steering Group and the LEP commissioned Dr Pat Bogue of Broadmore Research to undertake research that to identify ICT needs in disadvantaged communities within Limerick City and to propose practical and innovative solutions that might be adopted by the Steering Group and other key stakeholders.
Research Findings
The research report highlighted what was described as a ‘real and urgent need to tackle the issue of digital exclusion in Limerick City’
Key findings of the research include:
1) Those living in disadvantaged communities are far less likely to effectively adapt
and use new technologies.
2) Internet access in disadvantaged areas surveyed is 50% below the national average.
3) Almost half of respondents (47%) in disadvantaged communities do not use computers at all. In particular, older people, the unemployed, women in the home, and those with lower education levels are less likely to use computers.
4) The level of home computer ownership in these communities stand at 45% compared to 73% in Caherdavin. Interestingly, the uptake of technologies such as the mobile phone (89%) , Text Messaging (79%) , and ATM machines (72%) was significantly higher than the uptake of computer technology. These technologies are seen as relevant, whereas 34% of respondents considered computers irrelevant to their every-day lives. However, even for these every-day technologies, usage still fell well below comparable figures for non-disadvantaged communities.
Jargon and techno- speak were identified as key turn offs for many.
Recommendations
Two of the key recommendations of the report are the call for:
1) A range approaches to respond to the issues identified involving simple, straight-forward messages , which are centered on relevance and the benefits of technology
2) An increase in the delivery of practical, relevant training focused on real-life tasks.
Launch
The research report was launched by the ICT Steering group on the 4th April, 2008 in the Absolute Hotel. Officially launching the report, Paddy Flannery of Moyross Community Enterprise Centre spoke of the report as being extremely timely in view of the regeneration of the City. He said that whilst technology held out the promise of helping those who have been traditionally excluded, this report highlighted the real danger of people in disadvantaged communities being alienated and excluded in this ‘information age’. He welcomed the focus on e-inclusion in the recent regeneration vision documents and identified the work to date of the Steering Group as crucial work which needs to be built upon if we are to learn from this research. Sean O’ Dwyer, Chairperson of the ICT Steering Group spoke of the launch of this report as the first step in the development of a Community Based ICT Strategy for Limerick and invited all stakeholders to support this process.
Round Table Discussion as part of the Launch Event
The ICT Steering Group recognised that there was a need to allow those with an interest in this area to reflect on and discuss the findings documented in the report in order to deepen the understanding of the issues identified, and to begin to identify possible strategic responses.
Key stakeholders from schools, adult education, statutory sector and community groups were invited to the launch and to participate in the reflection. Over seventy five people attended and these were then invited to participate in round table discussions.
Process used on the Day
The participants were invited to participate in a facilitated discussion which focussed on four questions:
1) Emerging from the research, in your opinion what is the single most important issue which needs to be addressed?
2) Many people still see technology (particularly computer technology) as having limited relevance to their everyday lives. Is this important and if so how could it be addressed?
3)In your opinion what are the main difficulties experienced by (a) individuals, and (b) community groups in terms of access to technology? How might these issues be addressed?
4) How can those involved in planning education and training opportunities ensure future provision meets the needs identified through this research?
The feedback from each of the six groups who participated in the round table discussions was collated and the following summarises the key issues and challenges as well as common ideas and emerging themes.
Discussion One : Digital Exclusion – the research recognized the need to address the growing ‘digital divide’ in Limerick City and the exclusion of many people and communities from the benefits of the information society and ICT.
Emerging from the research, in your opinion what is the single most important issue which needs to be addressed?• Broadband is available everywhere in Limerick – but cost is the factor for non take up by some
• It is important to identify the relevance for each group being worked with – eg the elderly will have specific ICT needs
• A key challenge is the need to raise awareness
• It is important to identify needs and to sell ICT in a fun way through music for example
• Kileely CDP – we had a concern re if we could fill two ICT courses but now we have a waiting list of ten
• There is a need to follow up with those who do courses – eg in Nenagh there was a low take up after training
• The demand for ECDL is dwindling – people want basic knowledge and they want to be confident and to have no fears
• DIT – Helen McQuillan – Why apathy – IT? Education?, social inclusion?
• People need to know ‘what’s in it for me?’
• People get involved because of neighbours, children, social aspect/ fun, cup of tea
• There needs to be a specific strategy to engage those who are apathetic to ICT – they need to understand specifically how it will make their life easier
• It is about providing people with information and increased awareness so that they can make an informed choice. It is not about imposing our own views of the importance/ relevance of ICT on people
• People who are motivated will find the relevance of ICT
• We need to start with a clear definition of ‘the digital divide’, ‘disadvantaged areas/ locations’,’ disadvantaged groups’ ( gender? age? education? or just socio-economic divide to be addressed?)
• The job is about getting ICT involved in all of our work
• Communication between stakeholders/ providers is not filtering through to all concerned
• Education – is it propagating the divide?
• The blog must be embraced as a means of communication
• There needs to be targeted training
• Increased ownership of computers is not enough – cost is not the real issue, relevance is. Awareness needs to be raised re relevance – eg travel, bebo ( what are our children doing?)
• Relevance of material and of different target groups
• Access and costs of computers – need to use radio for example to communicate where people can easily access computers with support
• Addressing the intimidation/ fear of accessing computers – having computers available in a public setting such as internet café
• Cost is a factor – broadband providers should be made advertise an all inclusive cost and terms and conditions in plain english
• Pay as you go broadband
• Make Limerick a complete wifi city
• The key issue to be addressed is that of relevance
• Focus on ‘Skills for Life’ – make it real, include ICT into everything we do, eg have it as a backdrop to other provision – ‘computers and cookery’
• People have a fear of the unknown – need to tackle the mindset which says it is not relevant – we need to work to build confidence
• There is a real issue of literacy and jargon
Discussion Two: The research identifies the need to promote the relevance of IT to those not engaged.
Many people still see technology (particularly computer technology) as having limited relevance to their everyday lives. Is this important and if so how could it be addressed? • Home ownership – ‘I need to have a computer at home’
• Ennis – 85% of homes had a pc, and there was 75% usage ( even on dial up)
• IT support is essential
• Everything is possible
• Look at successful projects – Drogheda handbag making, sport, betting
• There needs to be an information resource available to people
• People need to experience the benefits before they will buy in – booking online, contact with those abroad, going for a job ( computer literacy)
• We need to be mindful of what we mean by relevance – our idea or the individual?
• We need to find creative ways of presenting the relevance of ICT without dumbing it down too much
• We need to integrate ICT into all that we do – all of the courses
• We need to start with what people need, not with what we perceive as their needs
• We need to make ICT easy to use – part of this is ease of access
• Older people may not feel the need to be ICT literate
• We need to show the increasing relevance – eg personal issues such as health and sport, ‘ access to huge wealth of information’
• If ICT is relevant in your school – maybe aim to be a centre of excellence
• Open days to learn to use skype, email etc
• ICT classroom as internet café/ open learning centre
• Stronger links between community centres and schools/ colleges eg use students to show the public how to access information
• Communicating the message of relevance – eg the NALA tv programme
• The key challenge is to target most marginalised groups
• All training needs to be tweeked to specific needs
• Need to keep people engaged – not just for training but after
• Volunteers have a key role – there are issues though re responsibilities/ police clearance/ support
• There are three distinct groups – children , parents and grandparents – these need to be targeted/ engaged in different ways. There may be literacy needs within each of these groups
• The reality is that individuals can be at a distinct disadvantage if they do not have ICT skills
• We need to promote ICT as a good thing – but we also need not to force it on people
• We need to look at how best to promote the relevance – family learning, fun and upbeat.( If it is not relevant am I as an individual already excluded?
Discussion Three: The research identifies the need to do more to enable access of those currently not engaged to IT resources
In your opinion what are the main difficulties experienced by (a) individuals, and (b) community groups in terms of access to technology?
How might these issues be addressed?• Individuals – initial costs but also ongoing running costs which can be prohibitive especially in hierarchy of needs where food is more important that ICT
• Community groups – running costs of providing ICT services is prohibitive with no direct funding. There is a lack of facilities for people to use after a course such as easily accessible ICT access centre
• Address issues – explore low cost alternatives making ICT easily accessible, and giving/ investing time to support and information around ICT
• ICT in community centres and schools should be funded
• ICT classrooms should be available as internet café
• Open Learning Centre
• Creche facility will enhance take up – eg no crèche in the library
• Transport for those who are remote from the centre – perhaps compliment activities such as daily meals and it classes
• People do not access technology because they do not have the necessary skills
• Not knowing what specific bits I need – need for some familiarisation with the potential of ICT
• Cost of broadband and pc may be prohibitive
• Not knowing what to buy or how to set up
• There is a need for a community help desk to address the issues
• There is also a need for people in the community who can go out to families – this should be funded
• There is a need for drop in access
• Not all children have access to pc’s in schools and many households in the target group do not have pc’s – there is a need to investigate putting a scheme in place for subsidising the purchase of pc’s
• The opening hours of community centres with access to pc’s is limited – eg not open at week ends or evenings
• You have to pay to go online in the library
• There is no dedicated IT support available in centres/library etc
• There needs to be a community based self access IT centre modelled on the one currently in the MTI building in VEC
• Need to have access to someone to help if someone is using a pc in a centre
• Investigate the possibility of having pc’s available in public places – post office, stations etc
• Corporate sector should be asked to subsidize costs of broadband through their profits
• There is a barrier re ‘psychological access’ – change of mindset required
• There needs to be improved ICT infrastructure in communities
• Technical skill and support is a huge issue – will need to be addressed if we are not to give an inferior service
• Need to develop software to enable you to simulate real live transactions
Discussion Four: The research identified that training is often more focused on course completion than skill acquisition
How can those involved in planning education and training opportunities ensure that future provision meets the needs identified through this research?• In Ennis repetition was the key – eg ten people starting a course might lead to seven dropping out. Working with a group of three to four was more successful – the ideal would be one to one
• A key idea would be to set up the family in the home and provide practical training for people in the local community( a key challenge might be the reluctance of people in disadvantaged communities to let you in to the house)
• A good example is Cambridge – community – volunteers – ownership – minimal cost – community centres
• VEC, FETAC, Dept. ED – a challenge to do home visits but City Council do visit houses ( eg plumbing) so why not for IT support?
• Currently there is more emphasis on quantity of training opportunities rather than quality – there is a need to train the trainers with coaching and on going support
• Run a variety of courses ( certified and uncertified) eg taster/ email/ certified internet alongside each other
• Integrate ICT into all courses
• Be innovative/ creative re new ways of engaging / delivering ICT
• Design if IT courses – too much of Word, not enough of email/ internet
• Change of mindset – IT to enable employment but now IT should be seen as a means of accessing information
• Training for those who know exactly what they need to learn
• Training to explore the potential of IT
• As trainers we need to ask ourselves is what we currently have on offer right?
• A move towards no certs/ exams/ pressure to work with this target group
• Fun element and small groups essential, plus other incentives ( tea, lunch, childcare)
• Location is important – hassle free if possible, central venue, flexible time
• The quality of trainers is important – must be sensitive to issues
• We need to recognise that certification is not relevant to a lot of people
• We need much more flexibility re courses
• A move to informal learning – eg self access model
• Move to courses that are more learner driven – the individual will identify what s/he needs to know
• Need a shift in thinking – ‘not just a computer course’
• Need to explore how to introduce ICT ..incorporate ICT into other provision, and to shape its delivery differently
• Move from teaching to tutoring, supporting, facilitation
• Reduce the fear factor
• Need to promote the individuals own learning - encourage independent learning.
Absolute Hotel, Limerick April 4th 2008
BACKGROUND
Limerick City Community ICT Steering Group
The Limerick City Community ICT Steering Group which was formed in 2001 is a network consisting of PAUL Partnership, the City of Limerick Vocational Educational Committee (CLVEC), and representatives from five community centres in socially and economically disadvantaged areas in Limerick City (Southill, Our Lady of Lourdes, Moyross, Ballynanty and St Marys)
The overall aim of the group is to promote and support collaborative and innovative approaches to the use of ICT in Communities ‘at risk’ of digital exclusion in Limerick City. It has the following five objectives:
1) Adopt collaborative approaches to planning for and implementing ICT focussed initiatives
2) Maximise the use of technology in designated community locations through the provision of practical supports
3) Promote user-friendly approaches to the introduction and development of ICT’s in communities
4) Build the ‘digital capacity’ of target communities
5) Pilot innovative responses to ‘digital exclusion’ based on sound evidence of need
The Research
Both Limerick City Community ICT and Limerick Employment Pact (LEP) recognised the need to address what they saw as the growing ‘digital divide’ and the exclusion of disadvantaged communities in Limerick City from the information society. As little is known about the exact nature and extent of this form of exclusion locally, the Limerick City Community ICT Steering Group and the LEP commissioned Dr Pat Bogue of Broadmore Research to undertake research that to identify ICT needs in disadvantaged communities within Limerick City and to propose practical and innovative solutions that might be adopted by the Steering Group and other key stakeholders.
Research Findings
The research report highlighted what was described as a ‘real and urgent need to tackle the issue of digital exclusion in Limerick City’
Key findings of the research include:
1) Those living in disadvantaged communities are far less likely to effectively adapt
and use new technologies.
2) Internet access in disadvantaged areas surveyed is 50% below the national average.
3) Almost half of respondents (47%) in disadvantaged communities do not use computers at all. In particular, older people, the unemployed, women in the home, and those with lower education levels are less likely to use computers.
4) The level of home computer ownership in these communities stand at 45% compared to 73% in Caherdavin. Interestingly, the uptake of technologies such as the mobile phone (89%) , Text Messaging (79%) , and ATM machines (72%) was significantly higher than the uptake of computer technology. These technologies are seen as relevant, whereas 34% of respondents considered computers irrelevant to their every-day lives. However, even for these every-day technologies, usage still fell well below comparable figures for non-disadvantaged communities.
Jargon and techno- speak were identified as key turn offs for many.
Recommendations
Two of the key recommendations of the report are the call for:
1) A range approaches to respond to the issues identified involving simple, straight-forward messages , which are centered on relevance and the benefits of technology
2) An increase in the delivery of practical, relevant training focused on real-life tasks.
Launch
The research report was launched by the ICT Steering group on the 4th April, 2008 in the Absolute Hotel. Officially launching the report, Paddy Flannery of Moyross Community Enterprise Centre spoke of the report as being extremely timely in view of the regeneration of the City. He said that whilst technology held out the promise of helping those who have been traditionally excluded, this report highlighted the real danger of people in disadvantaged communities being alienated and excluded in this ‘information age’. He welcomed the focus on e-inclusion in the recent regeneration vision documents and identified the work to date of the Steering Group as crucial work which needs to be built upon if we are to learn from this research. Sean O’ Dwyer, Chairperson of the ICT Steering Group spoke of the launch of this report as the first step in the development of a Community Based ICT Strategy for Limerick and invited all stakeholders to support this process.
Round Table Discussion as part of the Launch Event
The ICT Steering Group recognised that there was a need to allow those with an interest in this area to reflect on and discuss the findings documented in the report in order to deepen the understanding of the issues identified, and to begin to identify possible strategic responses.
Key stakeholders from schools, adult education, statutory sector and community groups were invited to the launch and to participate in the reflection. Over seventy five people attended and these were then invited to participate in round table discussions.
Process used on the Day
The participants were invited to participate in a facilitated discussion which focussed on four questions:
1) Emerging from the research, in your opinion what is the single most important issue which needs to be addressed?
2) Many people still see technology (particularly computer technology) as having limited relevance to their everyday lives. Is this important and if so how could it be addressed?
3)In your opinion what are the main difficulties experienced by (a) individuals, and (b) community groups in terms of access to technology? How might these issues be addressed?
4) How can those involved in planning education and training opportunities ensure future provision meets the needs identified through this research?
The feedback from each of the six groups who participated in the round table discussions was collated and the following summarises the key issues and challenges as well as common ideas and emerging themes.
Discussion One : Digital Exclusion – the research recognized the need to address the growing ‘digital divide’ in Limerick City and the exclusion of many people and communities from the benefits of the information society and ICT.
Emerging from the research, in your opinion what is the single most important issue which needs to be addressed?• Broadband is available everywhere in Limerick – but cost is the factor for non take up by some
• It is important to identify the relevance for each group being worked with – eg the elderly will have specific ICT needs
• A key challenge is the need to raise awareness
• It is important to identify needs and to sell ICT in a fun way through music for example
• Kileely CDP – we had a concern re if we could fill two ICT courses but now we have a waiting list of ten
• There is a need to follow up with those who do courses – eg in Nenagh there was a low take up after training
• The demand for ECDL is dwindling – people want basic knowledge and they want to be confident and to have no fears
• DIT – Helen McQuillan – Why apathy – IT? Education?, social inclusion?
• People need to know ‘what’s in it for me?’
• People get involved because of neighbours, children, social aspect/ fun, cup of tea
• There needs to be a specific strategy to engage those who are apathetic to ICT – they need to understand specifically how it will make their life easier
• It is about providing people with information and increased awareness so that they can make an informed choice. It is not about imposing our own views of the importance/ relevance of ICT on people
• People who are motivated will find the relevance of ICT
• We need to start with a clear definition of ‘the digital divide’, ‘disadvantaged areas/ locations’,’ disadvantaged groups’ ( gender? age? education? or just socio-economic divide to be addressed?)
• The job is about getting ICT involved in all of our work
• Communication between stakeholders/ providers is not filtering through to all concerned
• Education – is it propagating the divide?
• The blog must be embraced as a means of communication
• There needs to be targeted training
• Increased ownership of computers is not enough – cost is not the real issue, relevance is. Awareness needs to be raised re relevance – eg travel, bebo ( what are our children doing?)
• Relevance of material and of different target groups
• Access and costs of computers – need to use radio for example to communicate where people can easily access computers with support
• Addressing the intimidation/ fear of accessing computers – having computers available in a public setting such as internet café
• Cost is a factor – broadband providers should be made advertise an all inclusive cost and terms and conditions in plain english
• Pay as you go broadband
• Make Limerick a complete wifi city
• The key issue to be addressed is that of relevance
• Focus on ‘Skills for Life’ – make it real, include ICT into everything we do, eg have it as a backdrop to other provision – ‘computers and cookery’
• People have a fear of the unknown – need to tackle the mindset which says it is not relevant – we need to work to build confidence
• There is a real issue of literacy and jargon
Discussion Two: The research identifies the need to promote the relevance of IT to those not engaged.
Many people still see technology (particularly computer technology) as having limited relevance to their everyday lives. Is this important and if so how could it be addressed? • Home ownership – ‘I need to have a computer at home’
• Ennis – 85% of homes had a pc, and there was 75% usage ( even on dial up)
• IT support is essential
• Everything is possible
• Look at successful projects – Drogheda handbag making, sport, betting
• There needs to be an information resource available to people
• People need to experience the benefits before they will buy in – booking online, contact with those abroad, going for a job ( computer literacy)
• We need to be mindful of what we mean by relevance – our idea or the individual?
• We need to find creative ways of presenting the relevance of ICT without dumbing it down too much
• We need to integrate ICT into all that we do – all of the courses
• We need to start with what people need, not with what we perceive as their needs
• We need to make ICT easy to use – part of this is ease of access
• Older people may not feel the need to be ICT literate
• We need to show the increasing relevance – eg personal issues such as health and sport, ‘ access to huge wealth of information’
• If ICT is relevant in your school – maybe aim to be a centre of excellence
• Open days to learn to use skype, email etc
• ICT classroom as internet café/ open learning centre
• Stronger links between community centres and schools/ colleges eg use students to show the public how to access information
• Communicating the message of relevance – eg the NALA tv programme
• The key challenge is to target most marginalised groups
• All training needs to be tweeked to specific needs
• Need to keep people engaged – not just for training but after
• Volunteers have a key role – there are issues though re responsibilities/ police clearance/ support
• There are three distinct groups – children , parents and grandparents – these need to be targeted/ engaged in different ways. There may be literacy needs within each of these groups
• The reality is that individuals can be at a distinct disadvantage if they do not have ICT skills
• We need to promote ICT as a good thing – but we also need not to force it on people
• We need to look at how best to promote the relevance – family learning, fun and upbeat.( If it is not relevant am I as an individual already excluded?
Discussion Three: The research identifies the need to do more to enable access of those currently not engaged to IT resources
In your opinion what are the main difficulties experienced by (a) individuals, and (b) community groups in terms of access to technology?
How might these issues be addressed?• Individuals – initial costs but also ongoing running costs which can be prohibitive especially in hierarchy of needs where food is more important that ICT
• Community groups – running costs of providing ICT services is prohibitive with no direct funding. There is a lack of facilities for people to use after a course such as easily accessible ICT access centre
• Address issues – explore low cost alternatives making ICT easily accessible, and giving/ investing time to support and information around ICT
• ICT in community centres and schools should be funded
• ICT classrooms should be available as internet café
• Open Learning Centre
• Creche facility will enhance take up – eg no crèche in the library
• Transport for those who are remote from the centre – perhaps compliment activities such as daily meals and it classes
• People do not access technology because they do not have the necessary skills
• Not knowing what specific bits I need – need for some familiarisation with the potential of ICT
• Cost of broadband and pc may be prohibitive
• Not knowing what to buy or how to set up
• There is a need for a community help desk to address the issues
• There is also a need for people in the community who can go out to families – this should be funded
• There is a need for drop in access
• Not all children have access to pc’s in schools and many households in the target group do not have pc’s – there is a need to investigate putting a scheme in place for subsidising the purchase of pc’s
• The opening hours of community centres with access to pc’s is limited – eg not open at week ends or evenings
• You have to pay to go online in the library
• There is no dedicated IT support available in centres/library etc
• There needs to be a community based self access IT centre modelled on the one currently in the MTI building in VEC
• Need to have access to someone to help if someone is using a pc in a centre
• Investigate the possibility of having pc’s available in public places – post office, stations etc
• Corporate sector should be asked to subsidize costs of broadband through their profits
• There is a barrier re ‘psychological access’ – change of mindset required
• There needs to be improved ICT infrastructure in communities
• Technical skill and support is a huge issue – will need to be addressed if we are not to give an inferior service
• Need to develop software to enable you to simulate real live transactions
Discussion Four: The research identified that training is often more focused on course completion than skill acquisition
How can those involved in planning education and training opportunities ensure that future provision meets the needs identified through this research?• In Ennis repetition was the key – eg ten people starting a course might lead to seven dropping out. Working with a group of three to four was more successful – the ideal would be one to one
• A key idea would be to set up the family in the home and provide practical training for people in the local community( a key challenge might be the reluctance of people in disadvantaged communities to let you in to the house)
• A good example is Cambridge – community – volunteers – ownership – minimal cost – community centres
• VEC, FETAC, Dept. ED – a challenge to do home visits but City Council do visit houses ( eg plumbing) so why not for IT support?
• Currently there is more emphasis on quantity of training opportunities rather than quality – there is a need to train the trainers with coaching and on going support
• Run a variety of courses ( certified and uncertified) eg taster/ email/ certified internet alongside each other
• Integrate ICT into all courses
• Be innovative/ creative re new ways of engaging / delivering ICT
• Design if IT courses – too much of Word, not enough of email/ internet
• Change of mindset – IT to enable employment but now IT should be seen as a means of accessing information
• Training for those who know exactly what they need to learn
• Training to explore the potential of IT
• As trainers we need to ask ourselves is what we currently have on offer right?
• A move towards no certs/ exams/ pressure to work with this target group
• Fun element and small groups essential, plus other incentives ( tea, lunch, childcare)
• Location is important – hassle free if possible, central venue, flexible time
• The quality of trainers is important – must be sensitive to issues
• We need to recognise that certification is not relevant to a lot of people
• We need much more flexibility re courses
• A move to informal learning – eg self access model
• Move to courses that are more learner driven – the individual will identify what s/he needs to know
• Need a shift in thinking – ‘not just a computer course’
• Need to explore how to introduce ICT ..incorporate ICT into other provision, and to shape its delivery differently
• Move from teaching to tutoring, supporting, facilitation
• Reduce the fear factor
• Need to promote the individuals own learning - encourage independent learning.
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Towards the Limerick Community ICT Strategic Plan - A Great Beginning
I want to take this opportunity to thank those who contributed to the round table discussions at the April 4th launch of the research report. Your enthusiasm and generosity in sharing your ideas and experiences of the issues of the digital divide raised by the research was greatly appreciated.
The feedback from the round tale discussions has now been collated and will be posted on this blog for your reference. I hope to keep the conversation going through this blog as I continue to work with the Limerick Community ICT Steering Group to develop a Strategic Plan that will seek to provide creative, timely and appropriate responses to the issues raised.I would love to hear more from you at this stage - in particular anything you might want to say in response to the following :
Is there something that was important during your discussion that is not documented in the feedback?
Has something new occurred to you since the Round Table Discussions on April 4th?
Do you have any suggestions re specific actions that might reduce the digital divide identified in the research?
Looking forwad to hearing more from you, and once again thank you for your contribution so far.
Friday, April 11, 2008
Launch of our ICT Research
The launch of our ICT research last week was a huge success. Well done to Elaine, Pat, Paddy Sean, Deirdre, Yvonne and all involved. The turn-out was excellent (I think around 75 people) and the output from the round table focused discusssions will hopefully give us a great starting point for the development of a community owned response to the issues raised. To download the research - use the links belowResearch Summary Document (from learnlocal.ie)
Research Full Document (from learnlocal.ie)
Round Table Focus Groups at research launch
Press release
Those living in disadvantaged communities are far less likely to effectively adapt and use new technologies , according to recent research commissioned by Limerick City Community ICT Steering Group. The ground-breaking research ‘Identifying ICT Needs in Disadvantaged Communities Within Limerick City’, which included a survey of 440 households in Limerick showed that internet access in disadvantaged areas was 50% below the national average. The research shows that close to half of respondents (47%) in disadvantaged communities do not use computers at all. In particular, older people, the unemployed, women in the home, and those with lower education levels are less likely to use computers.
The report s’ author , Dr. Pat Bogue said that the report confirmed ‘ the existence of a large divide between disadvantaged communities such as Southill and Moyross and more affluent communities such as Caherdavin ’ . The level of home computer ownership in these communities stand at 45% compared to 73% in Caherdavin. Interestingly, the uptake of technologies such as the mobile phone (89%) , Text Messaging (79%) , and ATM machines (72%) was significantly higher than the uptake of computer technology. These technologies are seen as relevant , whereas 34% of respondents considered computers irrelevant to their every-day lives . However , even for these every-day technologies , usage still fell well below comparable figures for non-disadvantaged communities. The report highlighted what was described as ‘a real and urgent need to tackle the issue of digital exclusion in Limerick City’. It calls for an approaches involving ‘simple, straight-forward messages , which are centered on relevance and the benefits of technology’. ‘Jargon and techno-speak’ were identified as key turn-offs for many , and the report also called for an increase in the delivery of practical , relevant training focused on real-life tasks.
Officially launching the report, Paddy Flannery of Moyross Community Enterprise Centre spoke of the report as being extremely timely in view of the regeneration of the City. He said that whilst technology held out the promise of helping those who have been traditionally excluded, this report highlighted the real danger of people in disadvantaged communities being alienated and excluded in this ‘information age’. He welcomed the focus on e-Inclusion in the recent regeneration vision documents and identified the work to date of the Steering Group as crucial work which needs to be built upon if we are to learn from this research.
Sean O’ Dwyer, Chairperson of the ICT Steering Group spoke of the launch of this report as the first step in the development of an Community Based ICT Strategy for Limerick and invited all stakeholders to support this process.
Tuesday, April 8, 2008
eInclusion Limerick: UpComing Project Activities
- eInclusion Limerick: UpComing Project Activities
Limerick City Community ICT Steering Group invite you to:
TechFast 2008
(Breakfast and some food for thought!)
Can you spare an hour on a May morning, for breakfast including short presentations focused on technology and inclusion?
For Whom: Those involved in leadership roles in Limerick City (Community and Voluntary leaders, Education and Training Co-ordinators, Leaders in Statutory agencies etc.)
Where: Clarion Hotel, Steamboat Quay, Limerick
When: The series commences on Friday 9th May and runs for 4 consecutive Fridays.
Breakfast and presentations will commence at 9.15 a.m and will last for 45 minutes with a brief Q & A afterwards. We promise to finish at 10.15 a.m. sharp
The project is supported by funding from the Department of An Taoiseach.
Numbers are limited and Booking is essential. Contact edoyle@paulpartnership.ie to book a place.
Date
Speaker
Theme
9th May
Jim Breen, CEO, Pulse Learning
Inclusive e-learning
16th May
Gerard Walter
Senior Policy Advisor, Forfas
Future skills needs, technology and inclusion
23rd May
Colm Butler, Director, Information Society Policy Unit Department of the Taoiseach
E-Inclusion – a national perspective
30th May
Dr. Fergal McGrath
Director, AIB Centre for Information and Knowledge Management
Meeting the challenges of the emerging digital economy
Thursday, March 20, 2008
The Limerick City Community ICT Steering Group Background Information
The Limerick City Community ICT Steering Group which was formed in 2001 is a network consisting of PAUL Partnership, the City of Limerick Vocational Educational Committee (CLVEC), and representatives from five community centres in socially and economically disadvantaged areas in Limerick City. The Group was formed in order ‘to promote and support collaborative and innovative approaches to the use of ICTs in communities ‘at risk’ of digital exclusion in Limerick City’. Limerick Employment Pact (LEP) also recognised the need to address what they saw as the growing ‘digital divide’ and the exclusion of disadvantaged communities in Limerick City from the information society. As little was known about the exact nature and extent of this form of exclusion locally, the Limerick City Community ICT Steering Group and the LEP commissioned Dr. Pat Bogue of Broadmore Research to undertake research that sought to identify ICT needs in disadvantaged communities within Limerick City and which would propose practical and innovative solutions that might be adopted by the Steering Group and other key stakeholders. This document presents a summary of the Research Report by Dr. Pat Bogue and will be launched by the ICT Steering group on the 4th April, 2008 in the Absolute Hotel.
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
UpComing Project Activities
The coming months Look like being very busy ones for 'eInclusion' or 'digital inclusion' in Limerick City. Among the planned activities of the 'building digital communties project' are
- The launch of a research report on Identyfing ICT Needs in disdavantaged communities in Limerick City on April 4th in the Absolut Hotel
- The commencement of a wide consultation with all stakeholders in order to develop a Community ICT Strategy
- Breakfast Briefings - Key short and sharp inputs by invited contributers focusing on the potential importance of the new technologies as enablers of true inclusion (Dates, Venues and 'Lecturers' to be announced soon)
In addition the process of planning for a number of training inputs to key identified community personel has begun. More to follow from Elaine.
Building Digital Communities
The aim of this initaitive is to tackle digital exclusion by building the capacity of ‘learners and communities at risk’ to use technology in effective and relevant ways. This initiative recognises that capacity building needs to be deep and wide in order to be effective. Training/capacity development will therefore be targeted at needs identified by community groups and leaders through three training and development strands.
1. Community leader Capacity Development: Training/development activities targeted at those in leadership roles in community settings. This ICT capacity development work will culminate in the development of an ICT Strategy* for the community sector in Limerick City.
2. Frontline network administration and hardware maintenance training: This training will be provided to identified community workers and will develop their capacity to effectively maintain and manage community ICT resources and networks.
3. Content development training: Training provided to identified personal to enable them to develop a collaborative community website.
1. Community leader Capacity Development: Training/development activities targeted at those in leadership roles in community settings. This ICT capacity development work will culminate in the development of an ICT Strategy* for the community sector in Limerick City.
2. Frontline network administration and hardware maintenance training: This training will be provided to identified community workers and will develop their capacity to effectively maintain and manage community ICT resources and networks.
3. Content development training: Training provided to identified personal to enable them to develop a collaborative community website.
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