Borders' Computer Bus setting the quality standard for Scotland
Monday, June 21 2004
The Computer Bus project from the Library and Information Services last night (Monday 7th June) won a major Quality Award for the " Innovative Use of Technology".
At a prestigious awards ceremony (known as the Local Authority Oscars) run by the Convention of Scottish Local Authorities, Councillors Val Robson and Riddle Dumble, together with representatives from the Library Service accepted the award on behalf of the Council.
"This is the first time that a project from the Borders has won a Quality Award and we are really proud of the achievement and innovation demonstrated by our staff. But perhaps of greater importance than the Award itself, is the contribution the computer bus is making to enhance peoples’ lives. Giving people in rural communities new opportunities, widening their horizons and helping them to learn new skills in a relaxed and informal setting" commented Councillor Robson.
The bus uses satellite technology to provide access to the Internet and provides basic computer training in rural and isolated communities across the Scottish Borders. It’s a bit like the mobile library in that there is a set route but in addition to providing access to the internet, the bus offers training and a range of standard courses, as well as tailoring course to individuals own needs.
Caroline Stavert, Project Co-ordinator, explains the background to the development of the bus; " We carried out a survey of 1,700 members of the public, which highlighted the desire for computer training. Half of all those questioned said they felt that getting computer training was a priority. This survey also reinforced research undertaken as part of preparation for the Hawick regeneration project and work undertaken with the Better Government for Older People initiative."
"The bus route has been prepared to visit as many as possible of the 70 communities with a population of under 500 in Borders. Because of the distance the bus has to cover, it makes four visits to each village, on a weekly basis over a three-month period with a pre-arranged date and time. Each visit lasts for 2 hours, either in the morning or in the afternoon. We arrange these visits through the Community Council, Village Hall Committee, or other community organisation," added Caroline.
The Computer Bus provides a range of short, introductory courses tailored to fit in with the schedule of the bus. The courses are modular, and participants can choose to undertake whatever one suits them best, working at their own pace.
Courses include:
Computers for the Terrified - For absolute beginners on the computer, or for those needing a refresher.
Office for the Slightly Nervous - Word and Excel - Introduction to the basics of using Word and Excel
Becoming Webwise (the BBC course) - if you've never used the Internet before, this online course by the BBC will get you started.
More advanced courses are also available, plus a number of single units on subjects such as how to buy a computer and computer security. In the near future ECDL will be available online. The Computer Bus team are also currently developing units covering graphics and desk top publishing.
ends ______________________________ Computer Bus
Notes to Editors
For more information, please contact Leona Bendall, Communications Manager on 01835 824000, ex 5494.
Unified Solutions.