The e-Learning Jamaica Project

Abstract

PCF4 // Currently in Jamaica, while voice telephony has achieved practical universal access, there is relatively low demand for access to data and data-related services due to the relatively low level of education. This is a major hurdle to the creation of a knowledge-based society, critical to global competitiveness. // The Ministry of Industry, Technology, Energy and Commerce (MITEC) is collaborating with the Ministry of Education and Youth (MOEY) to implementing the e-Learning Project in grades 7-11 in all approx. 165 high schools in Jamaica and utilizing information and communication technologies (ICT)s to enhance the teaching/learning process and improve the level of passes in the school-leaving examinations by providing: // a. A standard set of ICT-based instructional materials for teachers and students in 11 subject areas and available on various media, including exciting text, CD’s, DVD’s, Internet, Cable TV // b. Equipment, software and broadband access to schools and establishing a Central Repository (CREM) to house and manage the materials // c. Training and Professional Development of teachers in the use of the new technologies in instructional delivery // d. Extensive support of remedial programmes being undertaken by the MOEY and other institutions // e. Institution of a standard examination in grades 7-9 across all high schools that will measure the performance of students in each grade. // A pilot project is being implemented in 28 schools in 5 subjects during 2006-2007 and the project will be rolled out during 2007-2009. // Paper ID 386