Youth programs that focus on both Skill Development and Creativity

Hi, I am Lauren Williams, a staffer at a non-profit theater in San Francisco.<:LINEBREAK:><:LINEBREAK:>In addition to being concerned with finding ways to educate and entertain my community through producing provocative art, I'm also developing a great passion for issues dealing with education reform in this country. Many of these issues warrant discussions about job readiness skills and technical development programs in low income school districts and communities. I would be really interested in hearing views from those working to bridge the "Digital Divide" about the benefits of incorporating a creative element and themes to Job Readiness and Tech Development programs. Are programs that focus largely on artistic endeavors, in addition to job readiness and skill development, as successful as those that focus mainly on interviewing prep and job placement? Do underprivileged communities have the time and energy to nurture both?<:LINEBREAK:><:LINEBREAK:>Obviously, both types of programs add heart and soul to the communities they benefit; I don't mean this to be a loaded question by any means! But, having an interest in seeing programs like Upward Bound and Youth Radio succeed and thrive, I'm wondering if there is a general feeling or belief in the NPO community about whether economic urgency demands a focus on building under-privileged communities up by graduating a skilled and competitive workforce before building the creative voice.<:LINEBREAK:><:LINEBREAK:>Any discussion or feedback would be great!<:LINEBREAK:><:LINEBREAK:>LW

Hi, I'm Amy Hill, a collaborating partner with the newly-founded Third World Majority, a media production and training resource center for communities of color. Our primary training methodology is community digital storytelling (via a curriculum adapted with the assistance of the Berkeley-based Center for Digital Storytelling), which teaches people who don't necessarily have any prior computer or video production experience how to use multimedia software (Photoshop and Premiere) to create 3-5 minute digital videos, or "digital stories," about their experiences. The methodology is a blend of facilitative filmmaking, oral history, and popular education techniques. I also work with CompuMentor on a project that is building the technology capacity for domestic violence shelter agencies and thus bridging the digital divide for these nonprofits and their clients, most of whom are low income and lack access to computers. I think Lauren's question regarding the merits of digital divide approaches that focus on basic software training versus those that emphasize art and creativity, is important. While education and training can be bridges to viable job opportunities, I think that what is often missing from digital divide initiatives that focus on these practical skills is an effective and relevant "in" to the technology -- particularly for low income and very disenfranchised communities and groups. This is where, for Third World Majority, art and storytelling come to play. In my work with domestic violence agencies, I have found that a great way to really pique their interest in technology is to introduce them to how computers and technology can be used to support the critical work they already do, with survivors, through digital storytelling that captures personal tales of courage, healing, and beauty. Through the workshop, participants also gain valuable skills and a useful introduction to the capabilities of multimedia software. And in this way, they are engaged not as passive consumers of information available on the Internet, but as content producers.<:LINEBREAK:>I think that ultimately both approaches -- more practical, technology-based job training, and creative methodologies such as digital storytelling -- are important strategies for bridging the digital divide. I also think that too often, discussions of the digital divide are framed simplistically, with the implication that merely providing folks with access would solve whatever "problem" it (the divide) represents. The reality is that the digital divide is a reflecting of already-existing divides of race-gender-class, and that any approach to bridging it in a way that will truly support social and economic justice must acknowledge and address this reality.<:LINEBREAK:>Just a few thoughts, and I'd love readers' feedback, as well! If readers are interested in learning more about Third World Majority, Silence Speaks, or digital storytelling, please feel free to contact me at: amylenita@compumentor.org. Peace, ALH.

Amy points to the issue of how so many feel that by merely providing access the divide can be reduced. This reminds me of something I read in a co-workers office,

"The best computer in the world won't get you into college or find you a job if you can't read and write. Technology really hasn't changed the fundamental rules of the game very much. The Digital Divide is real, but it hardly the most serious divide for those seeking a better life for themselves and their families."

I just wanted to share this thought because I think about it everyday and I thought it was relevant.

Thank you Lauren, Amy, and Ben for sharing your thoughts on what I find to be a really important topic to discuss. While I have no background in teaching technology to students, I do have a background in tutoring students in English, and I have come to learn that while a student can know the basics of English and have a competent level of literacy, having these abilities does not guarantee academic success. You need more than bricks and mortar for a great building. A creative type of pedagogy (in my case, encouraging creative writing, play productions, etc.) is required to (as Amy said) "pique" their interest and foster a passion and a drive to excel in any field. I feel that creativity should be included in any type of instruction, whether you are trying to teach computer skills or the elements of a good essay.

Hi, everyone! I'm new to this list, but not new to the idea and importance of the relationship of skill development to creativity in all educational disciplines. I would recommend that the Fourth R initiative of Jason Ohler would be a good starting place: http://www2.jun.alaska.edu/edtech/fourthr/. Studying and supporting the arts enhance critical learning skills and higher order thinking skills.

I think both are important.