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Mobile services provide an opportunity to bridge the access gap to education

Escrito por Redacción TNI el 11/11/2016 a las 09:40:59
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The use of Information and Communications Technologies (ICTs) to benefit the population reaches several sectors, notably including education. The different technologies for connectivity offer a major tool for improving the quality of education in Latin American countries. Wireless technologies are of particular importance, for they enable broader access coverage. Their features afford access to populations located far from urban centers and favor increased adoption by young people, as explained in 5G Americas’ report Tele-Education in Latin America 2016.
 

 

The paper belongs to the ICT for Development Study Series and provides a similar approach to 5G Americas’ blog BrechaCero.com, which seeks to disseminate and give visibility to these initiatives. The study highlights that increased smartphone penetration in the different markets in the region should be taken into account by the authorities because it is a key aspect for the success of any program aimed at bridging the digital divide.



The paper stresses that joint work between the public and private sector and the population is relevant in enhancing Tele-Education. “Joint work between governments and the private sector is important in leveraging the new trends in Tele-Education in connection with mobility and mobile broadband access. In this framework, it makes sense for the countries’ authorities to consider policies that facilitate the deployment of networks, access to radio spectrum and massive availability of access devices,” stated José Otero, Director of 5G Americas for Latin America and the Caribbean.



The proliferation of mobile services is not only an opportunity for enhancing access to education centers but also for the growth of the ICT industry. Educational plans demand updated content related to students’ training, ushering in the possibility for growth in this sector and, consequently, further employment and entrepreneurship opportunities.



The paper further explains that the current outlook in Latin America relative to the existence of Tele-Education plans is well poised for the future. In this regard, it emphasizes the momentum given by the Ministries of Education to this type of project, as well as the inclusion of this concept in national connectivity plans.



The document also stresses the efforts made by the governments in training teachers in the use of new technologies. Although these initiatives have had varying results, the paper underscores the fact that having such initiatives is an essential piece to achieve adequate implementation of connectivity plans.



“Tele-Education plans should foresee training for teachers and authorities at educational centers with the purpose of enhancing ICT tools and connectivity. It is important to have guidance for students in order to maximize educational content and access to connectivity,” Otero noted.

           

The paper takes into consideration the vision of different international bodies, such as the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC), the United Nations for Educational, Scientific and Cultural  Organization (UNESCO), the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) and the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) on the use of ICTs in education. 5G Americas’ white paper Tele-Education in Latin America 2016 can be downloaded here.

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