Computer Melas

Besides regular courses, computer melas are conducted every month. These are 2-day events which are conducted in the village itself. In these two days, the children are given an exposure to the basics of computers, including a hardware overview. These melas mainly target children from remote villages who are unable to attend regular classes.

The following activities are conducted during a computer mela:

• Hardware overview
• Introduction to basics of computers
• Educational games like bridge building and puzzles
• Multimedia content in science
• Computer quiz
• Painting art using software

These melas create tremendous excitement among both children and elders, and build up the excitement for learning more.

These melas usually conclude with prize distribution to encourage children.

Snap Shots of Computer Melas

Children in Soolagiri Block get answers to their doubts on computer operations

Children in Vembakkam Block get hands on experience in operating computers and even a laptop!

Over the last year, i.e. from April 2006 to March 2007, 180 students successfully completed the 3-month course and 50 students completed the one-month course. On the whole, about 300 students have benefited from computer centers. Besides, 760 students in villages were given an exposure to the basics of computers through 15 computer melas.

Training & Review Mechanism

Every month, the computer centre co-ordinator visits centers at each location. During these visits, requests for repair of faulty machines and replacement of machines that don’t work are looked into. The Co-ordinator holds a discussion with the concerned faculty about the working of the centre. Besides, periodic training and review of faculty is done.

Assessment of Students

Mid-term evaluation of students undertaking the 3-month certified course was done. The evaluation consisted of 36 questions based on 4 topics. 36 students from 6 computer centers undergoing the 3-month course were evaluated. Based on the results of this evaluation, students’ computer skills were identified and steps were taken to improve skills of the students and faculty.