Robbin McLaurin helped new computer users discover things they didn’t even
know they were missing.
Bridging the Digital Divide in Twin Cities Urban Communities
Highlights of the BAP since 2010 include:
• The creation and enhancement of 12 Public Computer Centers with 143 workstations in low-income areas throughout Minneapolis and St. Paul
• More than 15,000 hours of University-quality computer training delivered to residents, small businesses, and not-for-profit organizations
• More than 80,000 Public Computer Center visits.
Closing Thoughts
The Broadband Access Project (BAP), funded by a $2.9 million grant from the U.S. Department of Commerce (Award #27-42 B10003) with matching support of $741,000 from the University of Minnesota and community partners, has drawn to a close. This three-year project ended on December 31, 2012 and the Public Computer Centers (PCC) created through the BAP have been transferred entirely to community partners that hosted these labs during the project. Apprentices' last day on site wias Friday, December 21. The PCC’s will be directed by community partners starting in 2013. Each partner will be making their own decisions as to the continuation of their PCC, as consistent with the goals of the project. Some PCC’s will remain open to the public, while others will focus primarily on internal clients.
For additional resources on closing the Digital Divide and the locations of public computer labs, please see:
- Technology Literacy Collaborative (TLC)
TLC is a network of digital inclusion supporters committed to sharing best practices, advocating for technology and digital literacy skills and access, and promoting collaborative efforts. Community Technology Center (CTC), or, Public Computer Center (PCC), providers and others concerned about ensuring basic technology and digital literacy skills for all, use the TLC as a support network. Learn more: http://tlc-mn.org/ - Northstar Digital Literacy Project (DLA)
The Northstar Digital Literacy Project defines basic skills needed to perform tasks on computers and online. The ability of adults to perform these tasks can be assessed through online, self-guided modules. Included are basic computer digital literacy standards and modules in six main areas: Basic Computer Use, Internet, Windows Operating System, Mac OS, Email, and Word Processing (Word). Learn more: http://www.digitalliteracyassessment.org/sponsoringsites.php
News and announcements
-
11 Dec 2012
The Broadband Access Project ends, its work to be continued by Community Partners
-
7 Jun 2012
Access Makes the Difference
-
25 May 2012
A World of Possibilities
Broadband Access Project Partners
