Description:
These are a set of service in which I will teach ICT(Information, communication & technology) to unprivileged students from schools around Surat. This was around 2 months long wherein we taught different topics regarding ICT and computers. We had started with the basics like “What is a computer?”, “What are hardware and software” & activities like typing and painting. Working in a school computer gave these students exposure to things they didn’t know before and will help them in the future.
Reflection:
LO 1: Identify own strengths and develop areas for growth
We were to teach computers to the unprivileged kids which came to our school. When I first had a conversation with them I tried to understand them and which language they speak. They would play games instead of staying on a course which was to teach them spreadsheets, word office, how to type and surfing on the internet. So what we as a team decided to teach them the course first and letting them play later on. Most of the kids did not know English which made it difficult to teach them how to type. But later we asked them to copy what we wrote on the white-board. I identified my strength is working on Libre office applications, this helped me to teach them specifics like how to change font, size, tables and more. I also spoke Gujarati and English so I was able to understand what they were asking (as they only spoke Gujarati). I also know how to type, obviously so I had to teach them how to type as they did not know English. I revised my strengths which made me stronger at Libre office, better communicator and faster typing.
LO 3: Demonstrate how to initiate and plan a CAS experience
There were around 5-6 service sessions per group, our being computers. We needed to plan each session with precision so that it is not boring, kids enjoy the time with us, they learn something new about computers and they get to learn how to use the computers. So, I along with everyone in my group decided to teach them first about computers and later when a few minutes are left they could play games or surf on the internet so the sessions are not boring. We taught them about typing, Internet, Word document, drawing software, Notepad, and general details about computer between these sessions. I decided to each a few of the kids individually like having a mini group inside a group so they are focused and learn more actively. If a few of the kids did not understand some concepts after multiple tries then I would ask him/her to come to a computer where I would teach them individually.
LO 4: Show commitment to and perseverance in CAS experiences
As I mentioned earlier, there were around 5-6 sessions for all of us for the duration of 2 months which included a lot of commitment and perseverance. The sessions were more than one which in itself commitment and coming to every session without any complaints shows my perseverance. We were supposed to plan the sessions ourselves which with the academic work made it difficult. I figured out how to manage my time by making time slots for each task in my life. Like a to-do-list or making post-its, this helped me manage my tasks to be completed on time. Also, this list made me more organized. So for example, if there is a session on one Saturday I would have it written on a sticky note so I remember it and am ready for it on time. Having a timetable of tasks on a calender also helped me keep track of things.
LO 5: Demonstrate the skills and recognize the benefits of working collaboratively
Working as a team helped me a lot as each member is equally responsible for the task to get completed and we could delegate our work according to the member’s skills. For example, I am good with talking and communication skills which I used to talk to the children and introduce them with the task to be done every session. We divide ourselves into pairs and teach the children row-wise. There were 4-5 rows and 8-10 of us each session. If any kid needs assistance with any of the tasks they could ask for help. The ratio was like 1 volunteer to 4 kids in a row of 8. This helped us to better conduct classes and give attention to each kid present.
LO 6: Demonstrate engagement with issues of global significance
It is said that more than half the world’s population do not have access to computer/internet currently. We had a choice to select between many options to teach at the service sessions, I chose to teach computers. As I have currently opted Computer Science in IB and had chosen Information, communication, and Technology (ICT) in my grade 9-10. I have a keen interest in computers and they fascinate me. I also knew many children my age or below do not have the privilege of getting to use computers. I wanted to change the situation as much as I could by teaching some government school children computers. I also learned how digital literacy is lacking in my country even in my city, these facts motivated me to opt for teaching computers to these kids.
Final take away:
The sessions helped me and the children in our own ways. The children learned a lot about computers and how to use computers and as for me, I learned how to manage people and my time. It was a great time working with the kids and they also had fun knowing about the internet, games, and applications. This task helped me grow as a responsible man of society helping kids who needed help.
