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The
Community Technology Project (CTP) is committed
to develop and enhance the access to information
technology and computer technology education for
low-income Latinos so they can use it as a
powerful tool to improve the quality of their
lives in this country. Centro Cultural’s ATP
does this through a unique approach that is
inviting, comfortable, enhancing and culturally
adequate for this target population. We offer
computer literacy courses to Latino families
that have little or no computer skills and low
or no English skills. The premise behind this is
to demystify the idea that English is required
before acquiring computer skills. In fact,
computer technology could be used as a mighty
learning tool that is far more efficient and
engaging. Therefore, ATP constantly looks for
ways, to effectively, incorporate existing
software/hardware into our education, training
and information programs. CTP also seeks to
increase our community’s civic participatio n
via technology.
The
Digital Divide in Washington County
While the
population in Washington County increased 46%
between 1990 and 2000, the Latino population in
the county increased by 245% from 14,401 to
49,735 (US census data 1990, 2000). Centro’s
evaluation materials show that almost 95% of
participants in their Adult Basic Education
programs have not attended college. Less than
28% have even attended high school or its
equivalent in their native countries. The
majority of Latino families within the target
area rely on one income derived from
agricultural or nursery work. According to CASA
of Oregon, the average income for families
engaged in agricultural work, with one person
working full time, is $15,500 annually. In
contrast, Washington County accounts for 52% of
Oregon’s High Tech jobs. The 1999 adjusted
median family income in Washington County was
$52,400. Clearly, Washington County finds itself
in a “Tale of Two Cities” dynamic.
We are joining efforts with a myriad of local
organizations to enhance awareness of technology
among Latinos and to bridge the digital divide
in the area. This effort aims to respond to the
demands of our growing diverse community.
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In 1999, Centro
established a computer lab, a cooperative project between
the 4-H Web Wizards program Centro and Intel. This program
was developed and sponsored by Intel and Oregon State
Extension Service to address the high rate of high school
dropouts among Hispanic students. In 2001
 Centro
secured a Department of Education Community Technology
Center grant to expand and enhance this computer lab and
establish partnerships with several other organizations.
This project model has demonstrated ways to incorporate
technology in the lives of poor people. It has grown to
offer 8-9 computer classes a week at 5 different Community
Technology Centers (CTC’s) in the vicinity. These classes
are designed for Spanish-speaking individuals with low
educational attainment.
The courses range from beginning to
intermediate computer literacy. At the end of 6 months,
students that complete the classes, receive an achievement
diploma.
For people on the other side of the digital divide, this
might seem a meaningless achievement, but for immigrants who
lack the language, and educational skills, and who face
daunting cultural barriers and discrimination, this
accomplishment has immeasurable consequences in their quest
become better citizens and to contribute to their community.
In 2001-2002, over 500 hundred students participated in one,
or more computer courses at Centro Cultural. Despite the
current economic challenges, we plan to duplicate our
numbers and efforts towards our vision. This year, an Intel
Corporation grant provides a base of support for the
program. |
