Yahneake Sterling, Staff Reporter
THE MINISTRY of Education, Youth and Culture, in collaboration with the Ministry of Commerce, Science and Technology, yesterday launched its e-Learning Jamaica Project.
The project seeks to introduce multimedia projectors, CDs, DVDs and other information communication technologies (ICTs) as an integral part of the learning environment in classrooms.
Prime Minister P.J. Patterson, speaking at the launch of the project, said: "The e-learning project is the next vital element in our strategy to transform this country and achieve sustained development".
EXCITING NEW PHASE
He added: "The application of technology is, indeed, an exciting new phase in the delivery of education in Jamaica."
Mr. Patterson said e-learning will improve students' capacity for continuing education, increase their readiness for the global community and enhance the national profile and marketability in the international arena.
The Prime Minister said the Government recognised the critical role of education in reducing poverty and achieving sustainable national development, but emphasised that the process must go beyond simply changing the medium for the delivery of education, to addressing the content of education.
"I am confident that the approach to education proposed under the e-Learning Jamaica Project will enable young Jamaicans to face the challenges of the technological era without handicap," he said.
Education Minister Maxine Henry-Wilson said the e-learning project was a revolutionary departure from the traditional way of teaching and learning.
INNOVATIVE APPROACHES
"It is a practical demonstration of transformation, finding innovative approaches and state-of-the-art methods that recognise that children have different abilities and different learning approaches," she explained.
The project, initiated by Technology Minister Phillip Paulwell, will be implemented on a phased basis over the next three to four years and will target students in grades seven to 11 in all 150 high schools islandwide.
The Technology Ministry allocated $50 million from the Technical Investment Fund for the project while additional funding was received from the Universal Access Fund .
