Computers In Homes

dec_09_wanganuiThis educational intervention programme began as a pilot project in 2000, in the lowest-income community in the country, its purpose being to raise the literacy level of children from low decile schools. The aim of the 2020 Communications Trust is to provide a recycled computer, Internet access, training and technical support to families who would not otherwise have the opportunity to be part of the online world.

Parents complete computer training at their children's schools and make a small financial contribution before the PC goes home. They learn basic care of their machine, plus the support procedures set in place via the school. As the scheme has developed, parents have also embraced the learning experience for themselves, so the focus has broadened to family literacy. In some regions, the steering committees have expanded their vision further to encompass community literacy, and schools report increased school/home communication and more positive interaction between parents and teachers. Some parents have completed university degrees and other qualifications in teaching, social work, computing and the arts.

What began as a project to bridge the digital divide has become a notable contribution to social capital in under-served communities. Government new settler programmes have incorporated CIH into their education strategy for newly arrived refugees, with the additional support of interpreters, family liaison workers, transportation and babysitting to remove barriers to participation. It is envisaged that the access to information for new settlers and the engagement with their children's schools will assist families to readjust to a new country and become part of the wider community.

Visit the Computers In Homes Website


CIH Feedback

Computers in Homes values feedback from schools and families. See below for a selection and find more through the CIH website:

"Thank you for organising the CIH programme in the Te Mahia School. The Parents are as keen as a mustard and have all got their computers set. Thank you also for arranging the Laptop for Tania"

Principal Te Mahia School

"I finally have my internet up and running! I wanted to thank you so much for all you have done to help. Being a stay at home mum, you sometimes feel like you have lost touch with the outside world and if you are not careful it can become routine to stay away from all that is wonderful around you. I know I feel like I have some get up and go in me. Thanks again."

CIH Parent