News
SMART donates e-Learning software to public schools
Smart Communications, Inc. (SMART) is distributing 30,000 e-Learning licenses to 240 partner public schools to enhance online learning through interactive teaching aids.
Starting October 2009, 180 partner high schools and 60 elementary schools will be able to access learning materials, such as tutorial lessons, brainteasers and real-life demos, which were designed by 1LearningHub Pte Ltd, a Singapore-based company that aims to "engage and empower" teachers, students and parents via e-Learning.
The distribution of e-learning licenses is part of SMART’s effort to integrate Information and Communications Technology (ICT) into public school education under the Smart Schools Program (SSP). To date, there are 180 partner high schools and 60 partner elementary schools across the country.
The schools can access the online learning activities via a username and password for one year. SSP Partner schools will be able to access several modules.
First, there's the pre-school module that's designed to help students develop mental and cognitive skills. It aims to make learning fun and stress-free.
Second, students in the elementary levels will be able to access the primary modules (grades 1 to 6) designed for children aged 7 to 12. Using animations, sound, and interactive brainteasers, these will help students develop creativity and self-study habits. The program for elementary students consists of two components: i-Lesson, which includes tutorials, tests and papers; and i-Report, which helps teachers and parents keep track of the students' progress.
Third, high school students can learn from the Teens e-Learning modules, which include content for secondary 1, secondary 2 and upper secondary levels. These will help them to master concepts and use problem-solving techniques effectively using interactive mutltimedia programs.
The modules for elementary and high school students cover major subjects, including English, Science and Mathematics.
Fourth, all partner schools can also access Encyclopedia Britannica online. This includes the student encyclopedia, and Merriam-Webster's School Dictionary and School Thesaurus.
Each partner elementary school will receive 125 accounts, which includes 20 pre-school accounts, 95 primary (grades 1-6) accounts, and 10 Britannica accounts. Similarly, partner high schools will also get 125 accounts per school. In their case, these will consist of 30 secondary 1 accounts, 30 secondary 2 accounts, 55 upper secondary accounts, and 10 Britannica accounts.
SMART is distributing the e-Learning licenses to its SSP schools through the Philippine Business for Social Progress (PBSP). To date, all partner elementary schools nationwide have already received their accounts.
(Published 17 August 2009, Smart Communications, Inc.)
