Tech Teams DC

TECHNOLOGY TEAMS (TECH TEAMS) DC^TM

About
Malcolm X and Martin Luther King, Jr.

Background and Overview

A 2001 survey of DC Public Schools' (DCPS) technology resources by the Carnegie Academy for Science Education revealed that there were only two DCPS technical assistance personnel available to service computers for all 110 DCPS schools. As a result, many DC public schools have unused or underutilized computers due to a lack of readily available tech support. This represents a major gap in resources available to schools in the event of computer lab failure, the need to update or add components, or provide general troubleshooting services.

About the Program

This has led the 2M Center to create Technology Teams (Tech Teams) DC^TM, a pilot project that currently operates mainly after school at two elementary schools and eventually at six DC public schools—located East of the River. Tech Teams DC^TM aims to build basic technology skills through hands-on interaction between DCPS students, teachers (at the pilot locations), and local skilled college interns studying computer science or engineering. The project provides real work scenarios to teach students about computers, networking, software, operating systems and Web development.

Each Team is also required to implement at least one technology-based community service project per year by partnering with a neighborhood community-based organization.

The Teams also takes periodic field trips and tours to cutting edge research and technology facilities to learn about the world of work from company executives and research scientists.

Goal

To create a team of students with enough skills to be the main technology resource for the school and surrounding community‹to improve computer and technology utilization by students and faculty with on-site teams handling maintenance, upgrades and troubleshooting.

Benefits

Students gain problem-solving, teamwork and leadership skills
Students take on responsibility for self, students, school and community.
Schools have on-site tech support
Strong partnerships develop between schools, universities and the community

Partners and Funding

Key 2M Center partners include the Carnegie Institution (the Carnegie Academy for Science Education--CASE), Southeastern University, the University of the District of Columbia and Trinity College. Initial funding for the project was provided by the Morris and Gwendolyn Cafritz Foundation.

Tech Teams DC^TM was created as part of the 2M Center¹s program philosophy of "impact programming", that is, programs and projects that could have broader community or systems impact than just positively affecting those that are participating. With adequate funding, Tech Teams DC^TM implementation throughout a whole school system could substantially change the way technology is viewed and utilized by the schools, colleges and universities, and the community.