New e-learning device to benefit Rwanda students

A team of American university students is set to be introduce an electronic learning device- iSlate tablet - to enable Rwandan students learn with ease. A group of five post-graduate students from Rice University Business School in Houston, Texas are in the country to do extensive research on how the technology can be introduced in schools. “The device is in form of an electronic book and kids in junior schools can be able to do their homework using the iSlate tablet, “said Sean Ferguson, Assistant Dean of Degree Programmes at Rice University, while speaking to The New Times yesterday. He stated that the learning device is designed based on an extensive research done by world class experts, who have incorporated visual science and other tools to ensure that it improves the whole learning process. Ferguson who also leads the team said that iSlate is useful for learning for any age group of students and at US$50 dollars, it is extremely cost effective. Pallavi Hisaria, a team member, also mentioned that the electronic notepad does not require any infrastructure or internet connection and can run on solar power. “Students would be able to upload their curriculum on the device because it contains specific functions for learning only and it is operated in form of a touch screen,” she noted. “We are still developing the device.......we shall come back to demonstrate prototypes in Rwanda.” Hisaria mentioned that the electronic notebook will assist students from rural schools to access an improved learning experience and compete with others in urban places. She said that the prototypes of the device were tested in schools in India early this year. Another team member, Ryan Richard Hazard, said that the team chose to introduce the device in Rwanda because the country has the desire to transform into an Information communication technology hub in the region. “Rwanda’s environment is conducive for business investment and the country is also putting much emphasis on the education sector, “he added. Once the device is introduced in the country, it will allow school children from rural areas without access to electricity to have utilise the electronic notepad. The American students are in the country until October 18, as part of their coursework known as “Commercialising Technology in Developing Countries”. Ends

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New e-learning device to benefit Rwanda students