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1. Description of Our Community
In 1993, the board of directors had launched the establishment of TECO Technology Foundation. The goals of which include “cultivating technological expertise, advocating advanced knowledge and promoting social progress.” In order to implement the notion of diversified education and the spirit of honoring aboriginal culture and tradition, TECO Technology Foundation has integrated resources from many NPO organizations, local enterprises and hundreds of benefactors. They have contributed their efforts through fund raising and providing educational resources to support aboriginal crafts and arts such as singing, dancing, drums, percussions, wood carving, judo, sports, etc. So far, there are twenty six tribes and nine ethnic groups that have received constant support and services. Moreover, the educational exchange among schools (rural and urban) has enabled tribal children expand their learning horizon as well as the annual performance of “Aboriginal children’s night”, which has boosted tribal children’s confidence.
2. Summary of Our Project
TECO is a household brand name in Taiwan, famous for manufacturing home appliances and air conditioning system. Many of us might own a TECO fan or air condition. Aside from its technical expertise, it has also established TECO Technology Foundation which sponsors education and culture as well as set up funds to provide financial support for aboriginal groups in various areas. In order to know more about TECO, we conducted our research by visiting TECO headquarter where we interviewed company staff and executives. Then we took pictures and notes during the interviews. Furthermore , we participated in company’s services and we did some checking statistical information of TECO sponsorship.
3. Our Computer and Internet Access
A. Percentage of students using the Internet at home:21-50%
B. Number of workstations with Internet access in the classroom:more than 6
C. Connection speed used in the classroom:dial-up modem
D. Number of years our classroom has been connected to the Internet:more than 6
E. Additional comments concerning your computer and/or Internet access (Optional):
(1)Internet at school Our school has two computer rooms. All classrooms are equipped with computers and connected to the internet. Information system had been set up on campus making sharing for data very convenient. (2)Internet used at home Most team members have computers equipped with ADSL at home. Emails are frequently used to communicate and send messages.
4. Problems We Had To Overcome
(1)Preparing the topic There are various topics in which we are interested and it had been difficult to focus on one. After a series of discussions, we decided to start from an unforgettable school event --- receiving visitors from Lai Je. Finally, we decided to do research on how TECO Technology Foundation provides help and support to aboriginal tribes. (2)Interview skills Sometimes, asking the right questions is more difficult than answering them, especially when the interviewees are people coming from different background. Our students did some preliminary research through the internet, newspaper articles and magazines. Then, we brainstorm our questions. (3)Time pressure Time is never enough. Most of our team members have a busy schedule: school hours, homework, extra-curriculum activities, after school classes, etc. Our team members have to endure additional workload. Since they come from different grades and classes, we scheduled our meeting time. Initially, we meet every Thursday noon (12:40~13:30). Then we found out that once in a week was not enough, so we added Tuesday noon. (4)Project scheduling and project progress control To make the most of our limited meeting time, we require students to complete their individual tasks .Each of our members had to work on his/her part of research according to the timeline. Before meeting time on Tuesdays or Thursdays, all assignments should be completed and shared among team members through emails. On meeting time, students would be able to provide comments or viewpoints toward each other’s research. On the other hand, we form students up into small groups of three to share responsibilities when the project become complex. For example, when creating a webpage or promoting Christmas Shoebox Presents program, each team was required to deliver their plans. Then, we would work on the cons and pros of each plan and come to an agreement.
5. Our Project Sound Bite
“It’s more blessed to give than to receive.” We are touched by TECO Technology Foundation that more than a profit making company, it involves itself into community service caring for the livelihood of aboriginal children. Whatever you take from the society, you have to give in return what society needs.
6. How did your activities and research for this CyberFair Project support standards, required coursework and curriculum standards?
1.Related learning areas (1)Language A.Cultivating research skills and organizing materials B.Advancing writing skills: students learn to grasp main points and summarize C.Enhancing speaking ability and presentation skills (2)Mathematics Students learn to manage their time, expenses and travel routes (3)Social Studies A.Recognize the establishment and development of TECO Technology Foundation B.Recognize the purpose of non-government organization C.Learn aboriginal culture and lifestyles (4)Computer skills A.Learn to use the internet to browse web-pages, look up information, up- and down-load website materials B.Learn to process the images Learn to process text materials (5)Art A.Making seasonal cards B.Designing presents (6)Collaboration A.Teamwork and cooperation with others B.Communicating different opinions and ideas C.Completion of team tasks and self responsibilities 2.Combining with school-based curriculum (1)To experience The students experienced how to express their friendliness toward Lai Je children through promoting “Shoebox Christmas presents”. Team cooperation was experienced through the following activities: create posters, make up slogans, making presentations, etc. (2)To learn The students cherished their friendship with Lai Je aboriginal children. The students learned to appreciate aboriginal lifestyles and culture. (3) To serve The value of giving provides the students concept of helping others in need as well as raising their awareness to people in disadvantaged situation. We encouraged students to donate things such as toys, clothing or stationaries to aboriginal students who live in remote places. (4) To care Our students live an abundant life for most of them come from middle class families. However, there underprivileged children who cannot enjoy a carefree life. We show our consideration through sending greeting cards and Christmas presents.
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