The Information Systems Electronics and Telecommunications Technologies` (ISETT) Sector Education and Training Authority aims to take IT to the people with the launch of a fully equipped mobile computer lab built into a converted bus.
The R2 million "Techmobile" is the result of two years of planning and collaboration between ISETT, the Discovery Centre and the Computer Society of South Africa. It is supported by DaimlerChrysler and various ICT sponsors.
The Techmobile will make its debut at the Tel.Com Africa 2002 conference in Sandton next week. It will then embark on a tour of 50 schools in the Eastern Cape, reaching 20 000 high school pupils and 500 teachers in a year. The facility uses interactive exhibits and experiences as part of a "learning through doing" approach.
Designed to make the most of scarce resources, the Techmobile houses interactive roof, window and indoor exhibits, 22 keyboards connected to a mini-LAN, an intranet serving 12 notebook computers, as well as Internet connectivity via radar and satellite connections. Two maths and science teachers have been permanently assigned to the project to give demonstrations and supervise hands-on use of the equipment.
The vehicle has been specially engineered to handle off-road travel and rough terrain.
ISETT says the Techmobile was commissioned specifically with learners in mind - particularly those from disadvantaged areas. It aims to create excitement around science and technology, especially in rural areas where children may have limited access to ICT.
Besides offering children the opportunity to try out ICT applications, it will also offer innovation in career guidance. ISETT and its partners hope to eventually introduce a fleet of Techmobiles, one for each province.
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