Defining what it means to be digitally included
"A digitally included person is someone who has access to affordable and accessible digital devices and services at a time and place convenient to them, as well as the motivation, skills, and trust to use the internet to pursue and realise meaningful economic outcomes." (Digital Inclusion Research Group, 2017).
Hornby Primary School was privileged to host this event. I believe this was acknowledgement for the wonderful work Uru Mānuka has been doing in this digital/pedagogical space over the past 4.5 years, and we must also acknowledge the wonderful support of the Manaiakalani Education Trust (MET) and The Manaiakalani Programme (TMP) which has enabled us to get to where we are now.
TMP encapsulates the statement above defining what it means to be digitally included, our Uru Mānuka students and whanau:
- have access to affordable digital devices
- benefit from a proven pedagogical framework, including Cybersmart curriculum
- are empowered and display high levels of motivation and engagement
We have not reached The Holy Grail yet, but we are most certainly on the right bus!
Pat Snedden (MET Chair) was MC for the launch, once again recognition for Manaiakalani and TMP. As usual, Pat delivered a motivating compelling case for digital inclusion and left the Minister in no doubts that our tamariki were expecting big things from this commitment, and especially expected to see the Blueprint supported with plent of money - pūtea!
