Giving Class One pupils computers next year by the government is wrong-headed. I had expected the Education Secretary, Professor Jacob Kaimenyi, to be wise to unrealistic utopian promises as Kenya strives for what is best for our children.
Introducing computers to children under ten will have negative affects say experts.
We have to address the all important issue of cost. The proposal presented to the Parliamentary Committee on Education Science and Technology by Professor Kaimenyi says Sh75 billion will be needed immediately to roll out the project at once. This is not feasible.
Professor Kaimenyi therefore, suggests that the programme be implemented in three phases. The first phase to cost Sh22 billion, meaning only about 425,000 pupils will be provided with laptops starting in January 2014, out of the 1.3 million children expected to join Standard One. There are two immediate problems. What guarantees are there in the long run that funds will be available for all pupils? Who will decide who should receive and who must wait without being left behind?
But there are other vital issues. There are risks in giving children computers too early. Professor Kaimenyi should have the spine to advise the President against giving laptops to Primary One children.
H.E. Uhuru Kenyatta is pulling all the strings to honour this vow: “laptops for all primary one pupils”. Let’s put the project into its political context. It was conceived in the irrational womb of presidential campaigns, not an atmosphere conducive to careful evaluation. We need assurances that the project will be evaluated objectively to determine its full import and impact on learning.
I had wrongly assumed that this ‘rush vow’ would fizzle out with the elections. We will be fine, Mr President, if this promise is not kept. Implementing this project will create a plethora of problems. Perhaps this is H.E. Uhuru Kenyatta’s Jephthah moment.
Jephthah swore an oath: “…whoever emerges and comes out of the doors of my house to meet me, when I return in peace from the people of Ammon, shall surely be God’s, and I shall sacrifice as a burnt offering.” (Judges 11:31)
Let me put this in context. Jephthah, a local warlord, had been requested by the elders of Gilead in ancient Israel to be their leader in a campaign against the Ammonites. The elders agree that, provided he succeeded in defeating Ammon, he would be their permanent chief. Battling for Israel as a whole and in reliance on the might of God, Jephthah challenged the Ammonites.
To his surprise and grief, the victorious Jephthah was met on his return by his daughter, his only child. The Bible tells us Jephthah tore his clothes and cried, “Alas, my daughter! You have brought me very low!”. But he felt bound by his vow: “I have given my word to God, and I cannot go back on it.” (Judges 11:35) And so Jephthah “carried out his vow with her which he had vowed” (Judges 11:39).
This action remained a debating point among the people of Israel for centuries. Flavius Josephus, the first-century Jewish historian, writes that “[Jepthah] sacrificed his daughter as a burnt offering: offering such an oblation as was neither conformable to the law, nor acceptable to God; not weighing with himself what opinion the hearers would have of such a practice.”
There is a lesson for Kenya here. Shouldn’t we focus on weightier issues that have bedevilled education delivery in the country rather than making our children drink from a poison chalice such as this?
First, implementation is premature. Why are we talking about introducing computers when standards of literacy and numeracy are too low for pupils to benefit properly? A recent survey has exposed the appalling standards of literacy and numeracy in our primary schools. According to Dr Sara Ruto, head of educational lobby group Uwezo East Africa, which conducted the survey, “Despite significant gains in expanding access to primary schooling, actual literacy and numeracy outcomes remain significantly deficient across the region.”
The survey found that less than one third of pupils in Class Three across East Africa passed the basic tests in literacy and numeracy required at Class Two level. By the time they are enrolled in Class Seven, the report said, two in every 10 pupils still did not have class two level competencies. And although Kenyan pupils emerged as better performers than those from Uganda and Tanzania, the situation was described as “being the best of the worst”. A vast number of our children do not yet have the needed reading and mathematical skills to benefit from computer use.
Worse still, evidence suggests that premature introduction of computers risks retarding learning in literacy and numeracy even further. On August 8, 2010, Miawling Lam reported in The Sunday Telegraph how computer use has a “persistent negative impact” on children’s maths and reading test scores.
Lam cited a report that surveyed more than half a million children which revealed that technology was counter-productive in improving student achievement. It found that introducing children to computers from 10 years of age could have a detrimental effect and was associated with “modest but statistically significant and persistent negative impacts on student maths and reading test scores”.
This is a clear warning for us who want to introduce computers to children of age 6. The Study’s co-author, Professor Jacob Vigdor warns, “Students who gain access to a home computer between 5th and 8th grade tend to witness a persistent decline in reading and math test scores.”
“For school administrators interested in maximising achievement test scores, or reducing socioeconomic disparities in test scores, all evidence suggests that a program of broadening home computer access would be counterproductive.” He added.
Then, there is the issue of training for teachers. Joseph Karuga, responding to the Uwezo Trust report, has said teachers lack adequate skills to transfer knowledge to learners, noting that teacher training colleges needed to do more. “Today, most teachers are not addressing the question of how learners actually learn,” Mr Karuga said.
Throwing computers into this mix will only complicate matters. How will our teachers teach children computers they themselves have no knowledge of?
We need then to ask if Professor Kaimenyi, in advising the President, has considered research on how this technology will impact the neurological development of children.
Neurologists are increasingly concerned about the negative affects of prolonged use of computers among young children. Neurological studies have shown that computer use may develop habits that strengthen certain areas of the brain but do not allow others to strengthen to their full potential.
Jane Healy writes in her very instructive book, Failure to Connect (New York: Simon and Schuster, 1998): “The way children use computers may have powerful long-term effects on their minds. The main reason, of course, is that using any medium affects the underlying neural circuitry that is being established during childhood and adolescence.” Before parents and educators become too excited about children using computers, the long-lasting neurological impacts must be taken into account.
Attention is developed over the course of many years and occurs in three stages. During these stages it is necessary for the brain to practice activities that hone attention skills. Computer use can often conflict with the activities
that are needed for one to develop the ability to pay attention.
The first stage occurs until age seven. During this period, children learn how to be selectively attentive. Too much sensory input during this stage can cause children to either “tune out” or to become “jumpy” and over-stimulated by input that does not warrant that kind of response.
The second stage occurs in later childhood, typically between ages seven and nine. This stage is particularly critical because it is when “response organization” – the ability to form a plan and act on it in an organized, efficient manner – is developed. Instead of requiring that the pupil determine the appropriate sequence of steps that must be taken in order to reach a particular goal, the computer has these steps mapped out.
The last stage is where pupils learn to give sustained attention, or the ability to stay focused for a period of time. This occurs from age eleven onwards. This stage is important for teenagers as they continue to develop the ability to focus for long periods of time. Research by Colleen Cordes and Edward Miller, in “Fool’s Gold: A Critical Look at Computers in Childhood” shows how too much time spent on the computer infringes on the brain’s chance to gain this crucial skill. In short young children need to develop the neurological base necessary to pay attention and too much computer use can distract them from learning these all-important skills. I could cite much more research in support of my case.
The other important impact that computers have the brain is on chemical responses to emotions. Computer games or even subliminal images cause neurological reactions in humans. In Neuroscience for Kids, Eric H. Chudler from the University of Washington writes that, “There are physical responses to fear, anxiety, or excitement that all humans experience and are unable to control.”
He points out that hormones or chemicals such as adrenaline cause increased heart rate and muscle changes for the fight or flight response. These responses can become an ingrained physical habit if one is repeatedly exposed to computer games–even educational games. “The full effects of such ‘downshifting’ to primitive fight or flight responses are unknown, but they could habituate the brain to a need for “extreme” experience or chronically affect blood pressure”.
He cautions that overuse of computers during development may also cause the prefrontal cortex (which regulates emotion, complex thought, and problem solving) to become idle resulting in a lazy or underdeveloped executive system. The development of these habits, he says, has serious implications for future generations. This aspect almost seems more dangerous than a lack of attention skills because it is a physical response that becomes a habit of the body. Where as humans can consciously decide to remain working on something that is not particularly interesting, but necessary for them to complete, they are unable to consciously decide on the level of adrenaline they should release into their system. In this sense, it is important that habits are developed that do not cause children to grow up with these physical responses at inappropriate times.
The government needs to pause and rethink this project. Given the zeal and zest about use of computers in schools, it is curious that these researches on how computers directly impact brain activity in children have been ignored. While it is true that computers can certainly supplement the learning process and aid children who have learning disabilities so that they are able to comprehend material that would otherwise prove challenging, allowing us to reach out to the rest of the world, we should “err on the side of caution” by NOT implementing this project to this age group.
Rather than indulge a ‘rush vow’, we need to safeguard both the learning and health of our children. Let Jephthah’s daughter live!
Rev. Canon Francis Omondi
All saints Cathedral diocese …
The writer holds also holds an education degree .
These are the writers own views
Elly Gudo
This is an excellent article Francis. It is logically poignant with relevant allusion of the Biblical story of Jephthah’s daughter! How I wish our leaders had wise advisers who could lean on the side of logic rather than being court poets when faced with such avoid-approach conflict issues in decision making.
waanglicana
Thanks Elly ..as parents we now need to free our president from this vow . It will be good for us and for our children. We need to take this so seriously and be even preparedness of court action or mass action !
waanglicana
I agree that Class one is too early. Much too early.
Reminds me of a promise “King” Herod made to his “daughter”.
Pride was more powerful than his reason.
“Kings” need to be able to say, “opps. I was wrong to pledge that.”
John Mark Oduor
I love this. we have only one problem. evry body in position of leadership is stlll in a celebrative mood they havent woken up to realide that there wont be roads to deleiver those bobs called computers and that there are no classrooms to sit and them the teachers are not even sure how on earth these bombs work. them the content will be done when the kids have reached std. 4 . but or the poor kenyans. do you think it could be another goldenburg just like the BVR.
waanglicana
That’s an interesting position about BVR
Kathleen
“Mahindra project” of the police force is a better juxtaposition.
Elly Gudo
This is an excellent article Francis. It is logically poignant with relevant allusion of the Biblical story of Jephthah’s daughter! How I wish our leaders had wise advisers who could lean on the side of logic rather than being court poets when faced with such avoid-approach conflict issues in decision making.
waanglicana
Thanks Elly ..as parents we now need to free our president from this vow . It will be good for us and for our children. We need to take this so seriously and be even preparedness of court action or mass action !
waanglicana
I agree that Class one is too early. Much too early.
Reminds me of a promise “King” Herod made to his “daughter”.
Pride was more powerful than his reason.
“Kings” need to be able to say, “opps. I was wrong to pledge that.”
John Mark Oduor
I love this. we have only one problem. evry body in position of leadership is stlll in a celebrative mood they havent woken up to realide that there wont be roads to deleiver those bobs called computers and that there are no classrooms to sit and them the teachers are not even sure how on earth these bombs work. them the content will be done when the kids have reached std. 4 . but or the poor kenyans. do you think it could be another goldenburg just like the BVR.
waanglicana
That’s an interesting position about BVR
Kathleen
“Mahindra project” of the police force is a better juxtaposition.
Rev. Meshack Okumu
This looks good and well researched. I am having a problem with my eye sight ever since I began using computers. For health reasons I would advice the government to think twice. My other problem is that the children would forget the correct spellings as computers will do everything for them. I can say many others things that will go wrong with this computer topic. We need infrastructure, not computer. I have a project I am running in the village that bought solar powered lights that the children are now using to provide light at night. Children can now do their homework without problems; they don’t have to buy paraffin as the sun does that for them. This is what we need, SIMPLE AND EFFECTIVE
waanglicana
Good morning, Mchungaji. The more I think about it, the more I understand the desire for the Jubilee govt to deliver on that one promise if nothing else. It is a “feel good” story; it captures the popular imagination; it will entail a massive public procurement exercise; it creates the impression of forward movement in education reform.
The rights and wrongs of the programme seem to have escaped us. Even the bean-counters in civil society are not interested in working out exactly how much it will cost; what its success-to-failure ratio was in other countries it has been attempted; whether indeed it will turn Kenya into an IT powerhouse like India or the US; whether it will raise the standards of education in Kenya; how we will scale it up to ICT dominance in Africa.
SwM
Kathleen
Great work Rev. The All Saint’s Cathedral social outreach ministry did a similar thing and started a resource centre in a slum out in Kayole to provide a place for children, youngsters and adults to do their homework, and read in the evenings- although they had to get electricity supply connected.
Rev. Meshack Okumu
This looks good and well researched. I am having a problem with my eye sight ever since I began using computers. For health reasons I would advice the government to think twice. My other problem is that the children would forget the correct spellings as computers will do everything for them. I can say many others things that will go wrong with this computer topic. We need infrastructure, not computer. I have a project I am running in the village that bought solar powered lights that the children are now using to provide light at night. Children can now do their homework without problems; they don’t have to buy paraffin as the sun does that for them. This is what we need, SIMPLE AND EFFECTIVE
waanglicana
Good morning, Mchungaji. The more I think about it, the more I understand the desire for the Jubilee govt to deliver on that one promise if nothing else. It is a “feel good” story; it captures the popular imagination; it will entail a massive public procurement exercise; it creates the impression of forward movement in education reform.
The rights and wrongs of the programme seem to have escaped us. Even the bean-counters in civil society are not interested in working out exactly how much it will cost; what its success-to-failure ratio was in other countries it has been attempted; whether indeed it will turn Kenya into an IT powerhouse like India or the US; whether it will raise the standards of education in Kenya; how we will scale it up to ICT dominance in Africa.
SwM
Kathleen
Great work Rev. The All Saint’s Cathedral social outreach ministry did a similar thing and started a resource centre in a slum out in Kayole to provide a place for children, youngsters and adults to do their homework, and read in the evenings- although they had to get electricity supply connected.
waanglicana
Couldn’t agree more. I don’t worry about costs, what is lost in corruption can do so much more. I worry about quality education and literacy abilities that you have so clearly pointed out. They should study the Uwezo report and tell us whether it is laptops we need or it is EDUCATION In 2010 I wrote (and presented the paper at a National Education Conference) http://www.facebook.com/notes/gitonga-wa-nyagah/a-motion-seeking-to-abolish-the-kcpe-in-parliament/10150283963464363 and http://www.facebook.com/gitongawa.nyagah/notes in 2011.
Kathleen
Brilliant article, well researched and concise- I will make sure my Grad students read it!
waanglicana
Couldn’t agree more. I don’t worry about costs, what is lost in corruption can do so much more. I worry about quality education and literacy abilities that you have so clearly pointed out. They should study the Uwezo report and tell us whether it is laptops we need or it is EDUCATION In 2010 I wrote (and presented the paper at a National Education Conference) http://www.facebook.com/notes/gitonga-wa-nyagah/a-motion-seeking-to-abolish-the-kcpe-in-parliament/10150283963464363 and http://www.facebook.com/gitongawa.nyagah/notes in 2011.
Kathleen
Brilliant article, well researched and concise- I will make sure my Grad students read it!
Erick O'Alindi
Excellent peace , but the problem is that our leadership will judge the content of this with your signature. “Rev. Canon Omondi”… then they rubbish it. But truth well said is immortal. This wasteful project is similar to “maziwa kwa watoto wa Nyayo”, I still regret having been a “mtoto wa Nyayo” drinking milk, sitting on stones and studying under a tree with no books Thanks Canon.
waanglicana
We need to restrain them with our telling the president ….it’s ok we do not need to do that!
Erick O'Alindi
Excellent peace , but the problem is that our leadership will judge the content of this with your signature. “Rev. Canon Omondi”… then they rubbish it. But truth well said is immortal. This wasteful project is similar to “maziwa kwa watoto wa Nyayo”, I still regret having been a “mtoto wa Nyayo” drinking milk, sitting on stones and studying under a tree with no books Thanks Canon.
waanglicana
We need to restrain them with our telling the president ….it’s ok we do not need to do that!
Lucas Owako
Let Jephthah’s daughter live!!!!! Thanks for this article. I am sure even the public supporters of this project are secretly motivated by a desire to spare the President embarrassment. Now, how do we “free our President from this vow?” (For our sakes more than his). Maybe we should begin a “free the President” campaign. As for Prof kaimenyi, don’t put too much hope there. My friend, there are very few people with the willingness and guts to tell the king he is naked.
waanglicana
What was the point of removing politicians from cabinet positions if professionals brought in cannot add value to the thinking and moderate political overtones?
We as parents must stand up and thank the president that he means well for our children but NO thanks !
Lucas Owako
Let Jephthah’s daughter live!!!!! Thanks for this article. I am sure even the public supporters of this project are secretly motivated by a desire to spare the President embarrassment. Now, how do we “free our President from this vow?” (For our sakes more than his). Maybe we should begin a “free the President” campaign. As for Prof kaimenyi, don’t put too much hope there. My friend, there are very few people with the willingness and guts to tell the king he is naked.
waanglicana
What was the point of removing politicians from cabinet positions if professionals brought in cannot add value to the thinking and moderate political overtones?
We as parents must stand up and thank the president that he means well for our children but NO thanks !
waanglicana
1. Since it is an educational framework I would have been interested in seeing more possibilities of what he can do to make the educational system better.
2. Does the Education Minister have the capacity to openly disagree with the President? Is it at all possible that he may advise him on better options behind closed doors? Just a thought.
3. Since it is clear that it is a bad decision and the President seems committed to making sure he stays true to his word (which is a good thing), what can be done to channel his efforts into a win-win situation, where he stays true to his word and makes good use of the money by implementing long term educational change?
Quincy….
waanglicana
1. Since it is an educational framework I would have been interested in seeing more possibilities of what he can do to make the educational system better.
2. Does the Education Minister have the capacity to openly disagree with the President? Is it at all possible that he may advise him on better options behind closed doors? Just a thought.
3. Since it is clear that it is a bad decision and the President seems committed to making sure he stays true to his word (which is a good thing), what can be done to channel his efforts into a win-win situation, where he stays true to his word and makes good use of the money by implementing long term educational change?
Quincy….
dkinyuru
A good piece. You have said much on the negative of using computer early. The problem there is here is that i do not even imagine computers are priority for education in Basic level in Kenya. We need to re-engineer that system to help children be literate and numerate as well. I see the effect of the system in my girl who i am struggling with to grasp things of class 4 in class 6 and the teachers seem not to bother, they seem to think six home-works in an evening for a struggling girl will help her. Or may be they want other children to be zombies just to follow those in private schools( this is conspiracy theory).
Priority number one would be to improve human resource and physical infrastructure of schools which is still national govt issue. How will they give the computers in Turkana with no class rooms? or that is why they will miss? How will the computers be kept in Turkana? at home or in School? if in School, where?Why not think about these basics first? I still think most leaders do not understand the gap between the poor and the rich. The Turkana people compete with the nest primary schools and then are graded the same. I do find this ridiculous even now.
Our priorities does not ake us to double digit economic growth because they do not empower people. They make people more dependent on leaders even for thinking. Prof Kaimenyi would be a loyal tribal man following their King
waanglicana
Thanks Doc… The goal of this article was to show what giving class ones computers will do to the learning in the country and the development of our kids. There are many modern advantages of computer fr children . When they are introduced to it matters a lot and what they needed to have known before this is equally valuable. I think the president achieved his goal of elections he should MOVE ON and allow the schools to be reformed objectively to achieve its goals in developing our children. The we too can move on!
dkinyuru
A good piece. You have said much on the negative of using computer early. The problem there is here is that i do not even imagine computers are priority for education in Basic level in Kenya. We need to re-engineer that system to help children be literate and numerate as well. I see the effect of the system in my girl who i am struggling with to grasp things of class 4 in class 6 and the teachers seem not to bother, they seem to think six home-works in an evening for a struggling girl will help her. Or may be they want other children to be zombies just to follow those in private schools( this is conspiracy theory).
Priority number one would be to improve human resource and physical infrastructure of schools which is still national govt issue. How will they give the computers in Turkana with no class rooms? or that is why they will miss? How will the computers be kept in Turkana? at home or in School? if in School, where?Why not think about these basics first? I still think most leaders do not understand the gap between the poor and the rich. The Turkana people compete with the nest primary schools and then are graded the same. I do find this ridiculous even now.
Our priorities does not ake us to double digit economic growth because they do not empower people. They make people more dependent on leaders even for thinking. Prof Kaimenyi would be a loyal tribal man following their King
waanglicana
Thanks Doc… The goal of this article was to show what giving class ones computers will do to the learning in the country and the development of our kids. There are many modern advantages of computer fr children . When they are introduced to it matters a lot and what they needed to have known before this is equally valuable. I think the president achieved his goal of elections he should MOVE ON and allow the schools to be reformed objectively to achieve its goals in developing our children. The we too can move on!
Laurent
Good article, Francis. I hope your message somehow gets to its intended recipients in government. Good leadership is measured by getting all the facts before making decisions. I encourage you to advocate and spread the message widely. I am encouraged by the level of responses in just one day. This is an important issue. Thanks for tackling it and providing such good references to consider. I have seen what access to internet does to children in many parts of the world. Unfortunately, the negative aspects and consequences outweigh the benefits. This is the fruit of sin being so prevalent in our world. I believe this is an issue the church can and should tackle because it can deal with it at the root level. I hope and pray Kenyan children will be protected from premature and unnecessary exposure to a source of mind and heart pollution and that your government will instead focus on providing Kenyan children with better access to literacy and numeracy, and be innovative to find ways to develop children’s analytical and critical skills rather than provide ways to numb and dumb their minds.
All the best, Francis, as you keep heralding values that reflect our heavenly father’s plans as opposed to the demagogical empty and dangerous promises that only serve politician’s interests.
Laurent Trabadello
Laurent
Good article, Francis. I hope your message somehow gets to its intended recipients in government. Good leadership is measured by getting all the facts before making decisions. I encourage you to advocate and spread the message widely. I am encouraged by the level of responses in just one day. This is an important issue. Thanks for tackling it and providing such good references to consider. I have seen what access to internet does to children in many parts of the world. Unfortunately, the negative aspects and consequences outweigh the benefits. This is the fruit of sin being so prevalent in our world. I believe this is an issue the church can and should tackle because it can deal with it at the root level. I hope and pray Kenyan children will be protected from premature and unnecessary exposure to a source of mind and heart pollution and that your government will instead focus on providing Kenyan children with better access to literacy and numeracy, and be innovative to find ways to develop children’s analytical and critical skills rather than provide ways to numb and dumb their minds.
All the best, Francis, as you keep heralding values that reflect our heavenly father’s plans as opposed to the demagogical empty and dangerous promises that only serve politician’s interests.
Laurent Trabadello
Kimathi Kamencu
Bro,
I have ‘lapped’ this one up with great interest as primary school education is an area that I have been involved in since 2008.
Without even going into psychological effects, the laptop project is wrongly placed on the priority list. We’re still grappling with how to retain/regain standards owing to the FPE demands and this should be the focus now.
As you said ‘Free Jepthah’ may be an appropriate rallying call for the present.
You can check out the work that Tiffany Karibu and an organization called Dignitas are doing in Mathare Valley – http://www.dignitasproject.org
waanglicana
Again my learned friend thank you for your insightful thought. You give credence to one of my Argued points. I however insist that health and growth issues must be part of the discussion to appreciate the import of the decision . Mr president got his wish…we must move on!
Kathleen
Thanks for the link- I think it provides a good basis for discussion on priorities and those suggesting that the laptop idea needs more time to mature. Parliament needs to watch this clip because many of those now seated on the “soft red seats” have forgotten where they came from!
Kimathi Kamencu
Bro,
I have ‘lapped’ this one up with great interest as primary school education is an area that I have been involved in since 2008.
Without even going into psychological effects, the laptop project is wrongly placed on the priority list. We’re still grappling with how to retain/regain standards owing to the FPE demands and this should be the focus now.
As you said ‘Free Jepthah’ may be an appropriate rallying call for the present.
You can check out the work that Tiffany Karibu and an organization called Dignitas are doing in Mathare Valley – http://www.dignitasproject.org
waanglicana
Again my learned friend thank you for your insightful thought. You give credence to one of my Argued points. I however insist that health and growth issues must be part of the discussion to appreciate the import of the decision . Mr president got his wish…we must move on!
Kathleen
Thanks for the link- I think it provides a good basis for discussion on priorities and those suggesting that the laptop idea needs more time to mature. Parliament needs to watch this clip because many of those now seated on the “soft red seats” have forgotten where they came from!
waanglicana
The article is very strong and to the point Rev. The president seems he does not know ‘where to start’ nor does he seem to know what being a president means. The govt should invest in helping children to learn the basics of education – just like we did in our days. Resources need to be directed towards making available the basic facilities such as classrooms and note books. Computers are not a priority for kids. Some day later these kids will work their way into accessing computers. I believe national resources need to be used in a manner that addresses priorities rather than impulsions.
OK
waanglicana
The article is very strong and to the point Rev. The president seems he does not know ‘where to start’ nor does he seem to know what being a president means. The govt should invest in helping children to learn the basics of education – just like we did in our days. Resources need to be directed towards making available the basic facilities such as classrooms and note books. Computers are not a priority for kids. Some day later these kids will work their way into accessing computers. I believe national resources need to be used in a manner that addresses priorities rather than impulsions.
OK
waanglicana
I have read through the whole article. I think the govt. can find finances to implement the pledge. But then, I don’t think that as we country we have developed the culture to nurture the project. More than two thirds of the laptops might not be in the hands of the kids intended to benefit from the project by the end of year – especially if the kids take the laptops home. A curious point, is whether the ‘laptop method’ is being used in some countries, successfully, for kids as young as 6 yrs. Because if it is, it is just a matter of time before private schools here take it up. Maybe some schools here have already taken it up – I don’t know. The laptop pledge of course puts the government in a very tricky position. If they don’t implement it, it will be a campaign issue next round. I personally think it would be wise to shelve it this early, take up another project that will benefit schools in a bigger, lasting way. That way, the sting of the broken pledge will be blunted.
You clearly gave it deep thought. Prof. Kaimenyi invited input from the public. I suggest you find a way, either as an individual or as an organization, to table the paper.
MW
waanglicana
I have read through the whole article. I think the govt. can find finances to implement the pledge. But then, I don’t think that as we country we have developed the culture to nurture the project. More than two thirds of the laptops might not be in the hands of the kids intended to benefit from the project by the end of year – especially if the kids take the laptops home. A curious point, is whether the ‘laptop method’ is being used in some countries, successfully, for kids as young as 6 yrs. Because if it is, it is just a matter of time before private schools here take it up. Maybe some schools here have already taken it up – I don’t know. The laptop pledge of course puts the government in a very tricky position. If they don’t implement it, it will be a campaign issue next round. I personally think it would be wise to shelve it this early, take up another project that will benefit schools in a bigger, lasting way. That way, the sting of the broken pledge will be blunted.
You clearly gave it deep thought. Prof. Kaimenyi invited input from the public. I suggest you find a way, either as an individual or as an organization, to table the paper.
MW
waanglicana
KM
For many years, our education system has been affected by poor policy formulation, often not based on research and expert knowledge with no consultation. 8-4-4 was introduced by a directive and we are still paying the price. We are in a similar situation with the executive issuing decrees based on their perception of the challenges faced in education. Good intentions mismanaged will inevitably lead to the opposite results.
The laptop issue … I had already seen the pitfalls at their manifesto stage. If we cant give each child a (single) textbook after 10 years of “Free” “education” how will we manage laptops?
Good research in the article. A case in point is how texting language has affected composition and letter writing skills.One still has to learn the ABC’s and how/why 1 + 1 = 2. You don’t just accept it as the answer because that’s the answer that came out of the machine. As you say, this is not the right age to switch to computer based learning. The basic stage is the most important stage, the best stage to teach the basics well … handwriting etc
KM.
waanglicana
KM
For many years, our education system has been affected by poor policy formulation, often not based on research and expert knowledge with no consultation. 8-4-4 was introduced by a directive and we are still paying the price. We are in a similar situation with the executive issuing decrees based on their perception of the challenges faced in education. Good intentions mismanaged will inevitably lead to the opposite results.
The laptop issue … I had already seen the pitfalls at their manifesto stage. If we cant give each child a (single) textbook after 10 years of “Free” “education” how will we manage laptops?
Good research in the article. A case in point is how texting language has affected composition and letter writing skills.One still has to learn the ABC’s and how/why 1 + 1 = 2. You don’t just accept it as the answer because that’s the answer that came out of the machine. As you say, this is not the right age to switch to computer based learning. The basic stage is the most important stage, the best stage to teach the basics well … handwriting etc
KM.
becky
what a brilliant piece,telling it as it is. but are they listening……..
waanglicana
Pray so !
becky
what a brilliant piece,telling it as it is. but are they listening……..
waanglicana
Pray so !
God's treasure in a jar of clay
This is an amazing article. It is certainly well written but so heavily biased that it reminds one of similar criticisms when there is newness. It is in record that when cars were invented some people, and particularly Christians were concerned about the speed. There was fear that the speed would cause high blood pressure, women would not be able to give birth, etc. Listen to the arguement on invention of radio. ‘In 1930, laws were proposed in Massachusetts and St. Louis to ban radios while driving. According to automotive historian Michael Lamm, “Opponents of car radios argued that they distracted drivers and caused accidents, that tuning them took a driver’s attention away from the road, and that music could lull a driver to sleep.”
Even the Auto Club of New York agreed. In their 1934 poll, 56 percent deemed the car radio a “dangerous distraction.” ‘
Laptops for class one pupils is in order.
backstreetnairobi
In this case, the Reverend’s research on laptops is through already concluded empirical research which shows negative impacts of the introduction of laptops to children who can barely read. The argument on the invention of radio falls flat in this case since, at that time, no scientific research was conducted to either verify that it would cause harm or whether the uproar was much ado about nothing. The Reverend’s research does not rely on opinion polls either.
What we should be looking at here with great concentration is the fact that laptops have proven to be counterproductive in other parts of the world. A number of people commenting on this post have also indicated their reservations, where some people commented on the negative effects already showing on their kids and attributed to an early introduction to computers.
Do we have to wait for the trial and error to fail so that we can appoligize to next generations over our failures to heed common sense for political gain and feel-good moments? I do not think Kenyans who care about the future of their children will agree to be part of this project.
My greatest misgivings with this project is that the education standards are not the same as they were a decade ago. They are worse. Free primary education needed a lot of work other than just enrolling children to school and waiting for the magic.
Granted, a lot of children got a basic education, as well, a bigger number of students have left basic education with little value to show for it. Many more ended up dropping out of the system altogether.
On Monday, the Standard reported that 18 students of Chepkurkur Primary School were confirmed to be pregnant. Issues such as this should be given much more priority than the issuance of politically motivated laptops.
I also think the next protest should be to stop the implementation of this very unnecessary evil in our schools.
Kathleen
This article may not be able to stop the laptops from being given out- but it does a good job of asking us to understand ourselves as a nation. To respond to your example of automobiles, read WHO reports on road accidents and compare the stats in the high income and low income countries, how disability and death have become naturalized as a result- you may begin to argue differently. I suggest that you view Kimathi Kamencu’s link, it embodies all the sentiments in the article, and those in development work whose passion it is to improve the life chances of those in our country who are struggling against the odds daily.
God's treasure in a jar of clay
This is an amazing article. It is certainly well written but so heavily biased that it reminds one of similar criticisms when there is newness. It is in record that when cars were invented some people, and particularly Christians were concerned about the speed. There was fear that the speed would cause high blood pressure, women would not be able to give birth, etc. Listen to the arguement on invention of radio. ‘In 1930, laws were proposed in Massachusetts and St. Louis to ban radios while driving. According to automotive historian Michael Lamm, “Opponents of car radios argued that they distracted drivers and caused accidents, that tuning them took a driver’s attention away from the road, and that music could lull a driver to sleep.”
Even the Auto Club of New York agreed. In their 1934 poll, 56 percent deemed the car radio a “dangerous distraction.” ‘
Laptops for class one pupils is in order.
backstreetnairobi
In this case, the Reverend’s research on laptops is through already concluded empirical research which shows negative impacts of the introduction of laptops to children who can barely read. The argument on the invention of radio falls flat in this case since, at that time, no scientific research was conducted to either verify that it would cause harm or whether the uproar was much ado about nothing. The Reverend’s research does not rely on opinion polls either.
What we should be looking at here with great concentration is the fact that laptops have proven to be counterproductive in other parts of the world. A number of people commenting on this post have also indicated their reservations, where some people commented on the negative effects already showing on their kids and attributed to an early introduction to computers.
Do we have to wait for the trial and error to fail so that we can appoligize to next generations over our failures to heed common sense for political gain and feel-good moments? I do not think Kenyans who care about the future of their children will agree to be part of this project.
My greatest misgivings with this project is that the education standards are not the same as they were a decade ago. They are worse. Free primary education needed a lot of work other than just enrolling children to school and waiting for the magic.
Granted, a lot of children got a basic education, as well, a bigger number of students have left basic education with little value to show for it. Many more ended up dropping out of the system altogether.
On Monday, the Standard reported that 18 students of Chepkurkur Primary School were confirmed to be pregnant. Issues such as this should be given much more priority than the issuance of politically motivated laptops.
I also think the next protest should be to stop the implementation of this very unnecessary evil in our schools.
Kathleen
This article may not be able to stop the laptops from being given out- but it does a good job of asking us to understand ourselves as a nation. To respond to your example of automobiles, read WHO reports on road accidents and compare the stats in the high income and low income countries, how disability and death have become naturalized as a result- you may begin to argue differently. I suggest that you view Kimathi Kamencu’s link, it embodies all the sentiments in the article, and those in development work whose passion it is to improve the life chances of those in our country who are struggling against the odds daily.
Evans
I see your point Rev. Both the pros and the cons.
Evans
I see your point Rev. Both the pros and the cons.
Kiarie Mwenda
Canon, I definitely see your point in phasing this project. But lets get a bit dreamy, BHAG so to speak. Rwanda has achieved this goal in fact i was informed that the first batch is now in upper primary. I sense we need to push this nation forward towards a more disciplined path that is full of vision. I’m hoping that the next generation will outdo ours using technology to bridge the many small differences we tend to hype at the expense of our common growth.
My challenge is to the Anglican Church (the Church in general) where we have allowed our constitution to embed tribalism(my Bishop in Muranga has to be from the region hence a Kikuyu) Why cant the bishops after election be rotated so as to have a clear and mixed world view. I shudder at the thought that one can come from Muranga go to secondary school in Muranga, end up going to university in Muranga, lands a job in Muranga and finally marries from within Muranga. When will our worldview be challenged?
While we have serious health issues in our regions, our churches are only utilized on Sunday yet we could be using them as training locations for community needs for example nurses or community health workers during the week. I came across a constituency in this country that could only raise 2 out of 20 nurses required under the previous economic stimulus program yet this is a Christian constituency with a vibrant Anglican Church. I cried as the Mortality rate is high and the number of births in facilities is low!
Back to the laptop, there was a pilot project in Masai land using the kindle and allowing them to have solar chargers that helped the parents also charge their phones and their neighbors as well. The opportunity in the project is the amount of content required to drive this project as many publishers have been caught up in the brick & mortar age.
So for me I want the project but i also want the Anglican Church to transform into a living vibrant disciplined community that brings forth community transformation and healing.
waanglicana
Thanks my dear brother Kiarie…. In that dreamy land I will want to be bp of Muranga.
I know of what is happening in Rwandan schools, comps are not introduced at class one! Kindles are cool but can only benefit those who have already acquired literacy and numeracy skills. I do not deny the value of computers for kids , my contention is in introducing them too early as I have said it will hamper their skills and personal development based on the findings in countries where they have been used extensively and for sometime now .
Kiarie Mwenda
Canon, I definitely see your point in phasing this project. But lets get a bit dreamy, BHAG so to speak. Rwanda has achieved this goal in fact i was informed that the first batch is now in upper primary. I sense we need to push this nation forward towards a more disciplined path that is full of vision. I’m hoping that the next generation will outdo ours using technology to bridge the many small differences we tend to hype at the expense of our common growth.
My challenge is to the Anglican Church (the Church in general) where we have allowed our constitution to embed tribalism(my Bishop in Muranga has to be from the region hence a Kikuyu) Why cant the bishops after election be rotated so as to have a clear and mixed world view. I shudder at the thought that one can come from Muranga go to secondary school in Muranga, end up going to university in Muranga, lands a job in Muranga and finally marries from within Muranga. When will our worldview be challenged?
While we have serious health issues in our regions, our churches are only utilized on Sunday yet we could be using them as training locations for community needs for example nurses or community health workers during the week. I came across a constituency in this country that could only raise 2 out of 20 nurses required under the previous economic stimulus program yet this is a Christian constituency with a vibrant Anglican Church. I cried as the Mortality rate is high and the number of births in facilities is low!
Back to the laptop, there was a pilot project in Masai land using the kindle and allowing them to have solar chargers that helped the parents also charge their phones and their neighbors as well. The opportunity in the project is the amount of content required to drive this project as many publishers have been caught up in the brick & mortar age.
So for me I want the project but i also want the Anglican Church to transform into a living vibrant disciplined community that brings forth community transformation and healing.
waanglicana
Thanks my dear brother Kiarie…. In that dreamy land I will want to be bp of Muranga.
I know of what is happening in Rwandan schools, comps are not introduced at class one! Kindles are cool but can only benefit those who have already acquired literacy and numeracy skills. I do not deny the value of computers for kids , my contention is in introducing them too early as I have said it will hamper their skills and personal development based on the findings in countries where they have been used extensively and for sometime now .
Brigitte Kitenge
There’s no doubt the author has conducted thorough research. The problem is, does the cab.sec have any say? is he permitted to digress. You must understand that this is the Jubilee Baby. It is their flagship. Will they let go. Will their inflated egos allow them to let go?
Brigitte Kitenge
There’s no doubt the author has conducted thorough research. The problem is, does the cab.sec have any say? is he permitted to digress. You must understand that this is the Jubilee Baby. It is their flagship. Will they let go. Will their inflated egos allow them to let go?
Kathleen
This article is not so much a criticism of the introduction of the digital gadget but rather an invitation for us to question why we do the things we do. It asks us to consider our policies with a big picture in mind. It asks us to assess our infrastructure. If you have driven around the country you have come across schools with no roofs, windows and trained teachers. Some have no toilets so pupils have to “do their thing” in the open. Text books are shared 1 among 5 pupils and then they sit on the floor (Watch the movie “the first grader” to give you some idea of “real” Kenya schools)-the list is endless. Do we have enough ophthalmologists and optometrists to then take on the upsurge in eye problems that are correlated with the use of this technology?
Granted, we are in the information age and we cannot take the clock back, but we need to ensure that implementation of policy is delinked from political mileage and business interests. If we are seeking to “develop” at a fast rate by educating our children using modern technology the article claims there are more intelligent ways of ensuring this and those should explored.
A debate by development scholars is still ongoing and interested readers can go online and look for the article by Eszter Hargittai “The Digital Reproduction of Inequality.” which further insists on need for infrastructure and claims that there are socioeconomic factors that inspire the use of technology.
Maybe it would have been better to digitize the teachers during their training before introducing the gadgets to the children in which case a wait of at least three years, and social scientists would say a pilot programme would have provided further credit to the “idea.”
I think of the University where “thinkers” are being nurtured- Professors share computers, and therefore subject their students to old information, and do little research. Students too still hand in hand-written pieces to these professors and when they compete for jobs in International for a they are at a disadvantage. I imagine this is where laptops would have made the most sense.
Kathleen
This article is not so much a criticism of the introduction of the digital gadget but rather an invitation for us to question why we do the things we do. It asks us to consider our policies with a big picture in mind. It asks us to assess our infrastructure. If you have driven around the country you have come across schools with no roofs, windows and trained teachers. Some have no toilets so pupils have to “do their thing” in the open. Text books are shared 1 among 5 pupils and then they sit on the floor (Watch the movie “the first grader” to give you some idea of “real” Kenya schools)-the list is endless. Do we have enough ophthalmologists and optometrists to then take on the upsurge in eye problems that are correlated with the use of this technology?
Granted, we are in the information age and we cannot take the clock back, but we need to ensure that implementation of policy is delinked from political mileage and business interests. If we are seeking to “develop” at a fast rate by educating our children using modern technology the article claims there are more intelligent ways of ensuring this and those should explored.
A debate by development scholars is still ongoing and interested readers can go online and look for the article by Eszter Hargittai “The Digital Reproduction of Inequality.” which further insists on need for infrastructure and claims that there are socioeconomic factors that inspire the use of technology.
Maybe it would have been better to digitize the teachers during their training before introducing the gadgets to the children in which case a wait of at least three years, and social scientists would say a pilot programme would have provided further credit to the “idea.”
I think of the University where “thinkers” are being nurtured- Professors share computers, and therefore subject their students to old information, and do little research. Students too still hand in hand-written pieces to these professors and when they compete for jobs in International for a they are at a disadvantage. I imagine this is where laptops would have made the most sense.
Martin Kiarie Karanja
Nice well researched article and i like the responses, especially that we have pros and cons. Budget aside and all effects on health, environment etc- lets pause, reflect ask ourselves some deep questions- what may have motivated the president to make such a promise ? and why did many Kenyans applaud and even elect him ?
He may have wished to see the country cross into a developed country in the 13 years ( or earlier), when all those kids will have left form four gone into the job market and worked for one year. By then, a significant % of them would have done commendable actions – with IT affecting themselves and the economy. ( there will also be some negative impact) All other stakeholders – the teachers, private schools and publishers like me will have made relevant adjustments to fit into the new IT world of Kenya. There could be other reasons … political etc . Overall in Kenya, there would be great great interest in Computers, with all wanting to know more and do more etc. All the children in class 2 to 8 will want to know more than those class 1 coming, after all they are senior.
Why did Kenyans applaud ? Maybe its because of the Mobile phone revolution. That small kind of laptop that over 20 millions have – with all its related benefits, like MPESA that has given us global recognition. Maybe they would like to participate in more technology and benefit more .
At these point in time, I would rather ask, how can we give more and more information to make the presidents dream and the Kenyans wish come true.
We need to engage on the content and how it can best be prepared to address the issues of early learning.We also need to address the issues of how it will be delivered to the children beginning with the teachers. Pro Kaimenyi needs to move fast to put stake holders who can give input to the process and ensure all concerns are addressed. Your great article Francis, needs to land on Prof. desk as a start. Could the private schools take the lead in making these come true ?
On the Jephthah story, if something has to be sacrificed, lets spare the dream and the wish of Kenyans. Lets ask how can it be done.
maureen wanjiku
lets not get started on the moral effects of introducing computers too early like cyber porn, stalking, bullying just to mention a few. Lets get one thing str8, Jubilee cannot back down on this because it will seem to the electorate that they promised without working out a feasibility study and thereby paint the executive in very bad light. even tho’ the numerous loop holes in the said plan are plain and out there for all to see. the laptops are coming, we just need to brace ourselves
maureen wanjiku
lets not get started on the moral effects of introducing computers too early like cyber porn, stalking, bullying just to mention a few. Lets get one thing str8, Jubilee cannot back down on this because it will seem to the electorate that they promised without working out a feasibility study and thereby paint the executive in very bad light. even tho’ the numerous loop holes in the said plan are plain and out there for all to see. the laptops are coming, we just need to brace ourselves
Beatrice Mshai
The issues raised in this article are sound, but not completely unsolvable.
The possible degradation of literacy (read: spelling) and math skills really depends on the programs used. I was fortunate enough to attend a school abroad where computers were introduced early and we would play games where you would score points for spelling items properly and performing easy calculations.That was over 20 years ago, imagine what programs they’ve developed now! The possible introduction to harmful internet sites can be prevented as well using certain security protocols.
We have to look at the bigger picture here, a good percentage of the internet based companies and social sites were created by individuals below the age of 35. Some of these individuals started computer programming at as young as 8 years old (talk about preparation meeting opportunity!)
So, while there are many hurdles to overcome, lets not be to quick to scrap the idea all together. What we REALLY need is for the Ministry of Education to EDUCATE us on how exactly this is all going to work out. Maybe have a ‘frequent questions’ page on their website concerning the project.
Beatrice Mshai
And since we are quoting biblical stories here, why not remember good old Caleb and Joshua who saw only a land flowing with milk and honey as opposed to the rest of the Israelites who saw only fearsome giants!
Beatrice Mshai
The issues raised in this article are sound, but not completely unsolvable.
The possible degradation of literacy (read: spelling) and math skills really depends on the programs used. I was fortunate enough to attend a school abroad where computers were introduced early and we would play games where you would score points for spelling items properly and performing easy calculations.That was over 20 years ago, imagine what programs they’ve developed now! The possible introduction to harmful internet sites can be prevented as well using certain security protocols.
We have to look at the bigger picture here, a good percentage of the internet based companies and social sites were created by individuals below the age of 35. Some of these individuals started computer programming at as young as 8 years old (talk about preparation meeting opportunity!)
So, while there are many hurdles to overcome, lets not be to quick to scrap the idea all together. What we REALLY need is for the Ministry of Education to EDUCATE us on how exactly this is all going to work out. Maybe have a ‘frequent questions’ page on their website concerning the project.
Beatrice Mshai
And since we are quoting biblical stories here, why not remember good old Caleb and Joshua who saw only a land flowing with milk and honey as opposed to the rest of the Israelites who saw only fearsome giants!
waanglicana
Beatrice, we are talking of class one pupils in Kenya ! Attending Kenyan schools and being given laptops. If you look at this through the eyes of elite Kenyans in Nairobi who use computers and TV as nanny to their kids, it will be a non issue. But we are talking of majority pupils who wil be learning their reading and spoken English in class one….
Even where comps have been introduced early it is now done with caution following the cited health side effects.
As of scriptures you could have many more …I can do all things etc. but I chose this story to warn on making rush vow and doing all to fulfil it !
It is still ill advices to give class ones computers .
Beatrice Mshai
I think the main issue here is that we are totally ignorant as to why the president is so insistent on this project. Anytime you introduce massive change, its absolutely imperative that you clearly explain why you think its necessary and the benefits you hope to derive, otherwise, people will demonize the change. On that note, Rev., could it be true that you are demonizing the laptop issue a bit? I admit, its true, we can’t afford it, its also true that there’s a lot to be fixed in our education system and a major project like this might just add to that list. But do you really think that letting a six year old know the basic workings of a computer is such a bad thing? I’m open to seeing this research you’ve come across, but I hope your not just seeking out articles that support your pre-judgement.
waanglicana
Beatrice, I am in no way demonising introduction of computers in schools. Even in this article I have acknowledged that it can enhance learning , my problem is in introducing this to 6 year olds who are yet to learn numeracy and literacy. Remember these are not Americans Europeans or people living jana Asia, may be a number of kids from affluent Nairobi areas may match that but majority of children in our country would need more appropriate tool for learning. My other contention is tha it has not been well thought through, what will the curriculum be? How will we service the comps, who pays for the repairs and where do we do them ? More reports and surveys are not very encouraging about computers for pupils in Africa which is why I cited the many I had. But if you know of where they have succeeded then bring them to my attention immediately.
My president should have addressed the other pressing needs in education sector resulting from free primary education first
Beatrice Mshai
I see your point. Its really not the first thing a six year old needs to be handed when he/she reports to school.
waanglicana
You are right my sister, looking at this with the whole country in mind, one would have opted for some thing different to make a change in the lives and education of kids in this country. We are in huge shortage of classes for 10 years now making teachers teach Barazas instead of classes…120-80 where a lass should have had 40 pupils… Should we have created more schools or classrooms and therefore employing of more teachers to help our kids? Then imagine adding computers to teachers how have no clue. And some schools even teachers chairs are mobile, brought to school from home in the morning and returned in the evening. Then look at the budget allocated to laptops?
This was my huge contention that we should teach them computers but also sort the gaps we have and strongly bring it in when it can be meaningful to the like of form one!
Some have no problem giving a 3 year old computer as a birthday gift but that’s not Kenya
backstreetnairobi
Beatrice. Of course new technology would be good for all of us. But, as a pilot phase, 6 year old kids should not be the experiment. What if it goes wrong. Am sure the effects will begin to show after a while and not immediately. It may even take years to rectify the problem. Implementing this in a haphazard manner will set the risks rolling. Lets not engage in trial and error with out young ones. Am against laptops for six year olds. It does not seem right, does not sound right, it is not right.
waanglicana
Beatrice, we are talking of class one pupils in Kenya ! Attending Kenyan schools and being given laptops. If you look at this through the eyes of elite Kenyans in Nairobi who use computers and TV as nanny to their kids, it will be a non issue. But we are talking of majority pupils who wil be learning their reading and spoken English in class one….
Even where comps have been introduced early it is now done with caution following the cited health side effects.
As of scriptures you could have many more …I can do all things etc. but I chose this story to warn on making rush vow and doing all to fulfil it !
It is still ill advices to give class ones computers .
Beatrice Mshai
I think the main issue here is that we are totally ignorant as to why the president is so insistent on this project. Anytime you introduce massive change, its absolutely imperative that you clearly explain why you think its necessary and the benefits you hope to derive, otherwise, people will demonize the change. On that note, Rev., could it be true that you are demonizing the laptop issue a bit? I admit, its true, we can’t afford it, its also true that there’s a lot to be fixed in our education system and a major project like this might just add to that list. But do you really think that letting a six year old know the basic workings of a computer is such a bad thing? I’m open to seeing this research you’ve come across, but I hope your not just seeking out articles that support your pre-judgement.
waanglicana
Beatrice, I am in no way demonising introduction of computers in schools. Even in this article I have acknowledged that it can enhance learning , my problem is in introducing this to 6 year olds who are yet to learn numeracy and literacy. Remember these are not Americans Europeans or people living jana Asia, may be a number of kids from affluent Nairobi areas may match that but majority of children in our country would need more appropriate tool for learning. My other contention is tha it has not been well thought through, what will the curriculum be? How will we service the comps, who pays for the repairs and where do we do them ? More reports and surveys are not very encouraging about computers for pupils in Africa which is why I cited the many I had. But if you know of where they have succeeded then bring them to my attention immediately.
My president should have addressed the other pressing needs in education sector resulting from free primary education first
Beatrice Mshai
I see your point. Its really not the first thing a six year old needs to be handed when he/she reports to school.
waanglicana
You are right my sister, looking at this with the whole country in mind, one would have opted for some thing different to make a change in the lives and education of kids in this country. We are in huge shortage of classes for 10 years now making teachers teach Barazas instead of classes…120-80 where a lass should have had 40 pupils… Should we have created more schools or classrooms and therefore employing of more teachers to help our kids? Then imagine adding computers to teachers how have no clue. And some schools even teachers chairs are mobile, brought to school from home in the morning and returned in the evening. Then look at the budget allocated to laptops?
This was my huge contention that we should teach them computers but also sort the gaps we have and strongly bring it in when it can be meaningful to the like of form one!
Some have no problem giving a 3 year old computer as a birthday gift but that’s not Kenya
backstreetnairobi
Beatrice. Of course new technology would be good for all of us. But, as a pilot phase, 6 year old kids should not be the experiment. What if it goes wrong. Am sure the effects will begin to show after a while and not immediately. It may even take years to rectify the problem. Implementing this in a haphazard manner will set the risks rolling. Lets not engage in trial and error with out young ones. Am against laptops for six year olds. It does not seem right, does not sound right, it is not right.
George TLC.
..It is a God good thing to see (laptops)Canaan and to plan, work,wisely towards Canaan is a better thing.God told the children of Israel little by little…it did’nt take a month or three to occupy and experience Canaan’s..milk and honey.
Caleb and Joshua came home shared the vision,God said yes ! the people reaffirmed unanimously….all wisdom and discretion in place..
May our young vibrant digital leadership take heed.
They remind me of the sons of zebedee..with what is referred to as the ”drum major instinct”..Rev Martin Luther King Jnr..commended it as a good instinct…but it has to fulfill ”all righteousness” .
George TLC.
..It is a God good thing to see (laptops)Canaan and to plan, work,wisely towards Canaan is a better thing.God told the children of Israel little by little…it did’nt take a month or three to occupy and experience Canaan’s..milk and honey.
Caleb and Joshua came home shared the vision,God said yes ! the people reaffirmed unanimously….all wisdom and discretion in place..
May our young vibrant digital leadership take heed.
They remind me of the sons of zebedee..with what is referred to as the ”drum major instinct”..Rev Martin Luther King Jnr..commended it as a good instinct…but it has to fulfill ”all righteousness” .
waanglicana
This thing has been tried before, but without success read http://www.hackeducation.com/2012/04/09/the-failure-of-olpc/ about a project called one laptop per child. I am also trying to find out a country with an e-learning national curriculum.
KM
waanglicana
This thing has been tried before, but without success read http://www.hackeducation.com/2012/04/09/the-failure-of-olpc/ about a project called one laptop per child. I am also trying to find out a country with an e-learning national curriculum.
KM
Jean Keith
This is a really nice and well researched article based on facts and not just speculations or trial and error. It is very true to argue that it is meaningless (at this stage of the country) to give class one students personal computers (laptops) – some of them who are still in the process of gaining the basic educational skills and tool-kits (Maths and English). Take a look around Kenya for a minute; in areas like Northern and Western, communities / counties lack a place they call school and even those that have lack good teachers, good learning environment, proper infrastructures and so on…tell me: What will a laptop do for them? Some families even lack finances to train their children in primary schools in terms of uniforms, books and so on. In some counties; there is not even a single school and children learn through voluntary help of their fellow community members who are trying to nurture them with basic life skills. This is irony is like taking a calf to the farm to plow using the plowing machine it cannot work.
The motion been used “technologically advancements,” should be provide schools with proper and updated learning materials and equipment’s, build good schools in communities who lack one, equip them with qualified teachers, then provide each school with a computer lab for their pupils to be taught computer as a subject thus; been examined after wards. Even advanced international universities like U.S.I.U don’t give students laptops on entrance – they have a computer lab and courses been offered to learn computer basics. If it must be issued, give Form four students who pass their K.C.S.E –at least the need is there now.
It is called baby steps – a time will come for issuing of laptops to class one, or even new born babies; but for now let’s deal on the main issue – QUALITY EDUCATION. We just need to pray and hope for some light to shine and show us the way forward as we are blinded by our rational decisions yet we could do much more better than that. We should pray for intellectual depth both to us and our leaders to help us make the right decisions.
Jean Keith
This is a really nice and well researched article based on facts and not just speculations or trial and error. It is very true to argue that it is meaningless (at this stage of the country) to give class one students personal computers (laptops) – some of them who are still in the process of gaining the basic educational skills and tool-kits (Maths and English). Take a look around Kenya for a minute; in areas like Northern and Western, communities / counties lack a place they call school and even those that have lack good teachers, good learning environment, proper infrastructures and so on…tell me: What will a laptop do for them? Some families even lack finances to train their children in primary schools in terms of uniforms, books and so on. In some counties; there is not even a single school and children learn through voluntary help of their fellow community members who are trying to nurture them with basic life skills. This is irony is like taking a calf to the farm to plow using the plowing machine it cannot work.
The motion been used “technologically advancements,” should be provide schools with proper and updated learning materials and equipment’s, build good schools in communities who lack one, equip them with qualified teachers, then provide each school with a computer lab for their pupils to be taught computer as a subject thus; been examined after wards. Even advanced international universities like U.S.I.U don’t give students laptops on entrance – they have a computer lab and courses been offered to learn computer basics. If it must be issued, give Form four students who pass their K.C.S.E –at least the need is there now.
It is called baby steps – a time will come for issuing of laptops to class one, or even new born babies; but for now let’s deal on the main issue – QUALITY EDUCATION. We just need to pray and hope for some light to shine and show us the way forward as we are blinded by our rational decisions yet we could do much more better than that. We should pray for intellectual depth both to us and our leaders to help us make the right decisions.
Mike Kimoko
Ndugu, this is an incisive ,well thought and well researched treatise. Just wish jubilee diehards find time to go through it. Thanks for provoking our thoughts. Happy father’s day
waanglicana
That’s very sad that we have o pay for this through the budget ..
Mike Kimoko
Ndugu, this is an incisive ,well thought and well researched treatise. Just wish jubilee diehards find time to go through it. Thanks for provoking our thoughts. Happy father’s day
waanglicana
That’s very sad that we have o pay for this through the budget ..
Symon Maringa
With a document well researched such as this one Canon, the next important thing now is to deliver it to prof. Kaimenyi who is the Education secretary. Let’s assume he hasn’t seen or read it. Will you do that please Canon? I mean an official delivery to Jogoo House. and a copy to the Parliamentary Education committee and K.I.E,because they are the ones who develop the curriculum and in this case the content for the lap tops. Let’s not make assumptions on or take this matter lightly any longer. Thanks
waanglicana
I think we should all attempt to get his attention to this article …I am trying !
Symon Maringa
With a document well researched such as this one Canon, the next important thing now is to deliver it to prof. Kaimenyi who is the Education secretary. Let’s assume he hasn’t seen or read it. Will you do that please Canon? I mean an official delivery to Jogoo House. and a copy to the Parliamentary Education committee and K.I.E,because they are the ones who develop the curriculum and in this case the content for the lap tops. Let’s not make assumptions on or take this matter lightly any longer. Thanks
waanglicana
I think we should all attempt to get his attention to this article …I am trying !