2017 ICT4D Conference

Play.Connect.Learn, is a digital app that was developed by Sesame Workshop India (SWI) to determine whether exposure to innovative, interactive digital reading content on smart phones would improve the reading skills of children in Grades 1 and 2 who are reading below grade level. SWI leveraged its library of materials to develop 3 packages of reading materials for the app. The app, developed in Marathi, is being used in 4 districts in Maharashtra by low income families. The app includes packages of stories, rhymes and games that become increasingly more complex in content and skills. Children listen to and read stories, play games to practise their skills, and take assessments at the end of each package. Packages were designed so that children could interact with other kids or parents as they played the games and read the stories. We have partnered with NGOs in 4 districts in Maharashtra to implement the project. For our research sample, we provided smart phones to families who did not have them, and trained them and their children to use the phone and the app. NGO partners trained facilitators to disseminate the app to families, and to support parents and children in the use of smart phones. Data collection is still in progress, but stories from the field are encouraging: children and parents are engaged and excited to use the app. While schools have not been a part of the research, teachers and principals have indicated interest in using the app. While there has been a steep learning curve for communities in learning how to use apps and smart phones, there has been a great deal of interest in using digital media for educational purposes. Digital media allows us to reach populations in hard to reach areas with materials that are innovative, and introduce children, parents and teachers to new pedagogies. Digital media and connectivity can be powerful tools for educating all children. We recommend that the government implements policy that will make digital devices and connectivity more accessible and affordable.

Dropbox link to presentation: https://www.dropbox.com/s/gyb56jo3gu2my9i/ICT4D%20presentation%2011517%282%29%202.pptx?dl=0