“Skills Gap Trainer” would like to thank “BC Technology for Learning Society” for accepting our technology equipment request. “BC Technology for Learning Society” assists schools, charities, non-profits, Indigenous groups and libraries to acquire the technology they need, and only “a small administration fee” is required for the purchase of excellent computer equipment. In 2018, we applied to the “Computers For Schools” program provided through “BC Technology for Learning Society”, and purchased two “Dell Precision T1600 – Xeon Workstations”, a PC laptop workstation, a professional “High Definition classroom projector” and a heavy duty “colour laser printer” for a small price. The equipment worked perfectly “right out of the box”, was of a type that was not prone to obsolescence, and was provided to us on a very fast time schedule when we needed it most. We noticed that the nature of the electronic equipment provided to us was of high quality, reliable, well built, performant, well configured, and of a professional type. Whereas many “technology users” are often concerned with “how recent the technology they are using was made”, we have found that a main characteristic of performance, quality and effectiveness in the production of work output, and user experience, comes from the “class of equipment” chosen rather than the “date of product release”. “BC Technology for Learning Society” provided us with equipment that was not necessarily the newest, but was of such a high calibre for what it was, that we will be able to use it to meet our needs and our client needs for a very long time. Local “Skills Gap Trainer” instructors and students can now use these computer workstations for teaching and learning purposes, and remote students can experience and engage with the “video focused” massive open online course products (MOOCs), “media enhanced” e-books, and “long-form” reports produced on these workstations. With the acquisition of the computers that our organization needed, we were able to tutor local and remote clients on the latest creative desktop apps, including; Adobe XD, Premiere Pro, Photoshop, After Effects, Lightroom and Audition. We are now able to apply professional “media production applications” to the “instructional design and product development process” and to teach others as to the professional use of these applications. We can now instruct and coach many “artists and technicians” from the digital arts, media arts, academic and professional worker communities. Thank You!
ABOUT “BC Technology for Learning Society”
“BC Technology for Learning Society” is a registered charity that collects donated computers, trains and hires youth to refurbish the computers and then distributes computers to schools, non-profits, charities, libraries, Indigenous groups, and students. Since 1994, “BC Technology fo Learning Society” has delivered the “Computers for Schools Plus” program across British Columbia, distributing over 180, 000 computers to BC schools and community groups. The society has provided over 600 youth with work experience opportunities. The society is authorized by “Innovation Science & Economic Development (ISED)” to deliver the “Computers fo Schools (CFS+)” program in BC. The society is part of 14 other organizations across Canada, delivering “CFS+”. This program is funded by the “Government of Canada”.
THE “TECHNOLOGY” OPPORTUNITY for Non-Profits, Schools and Indigenous Communities
If you are an officer of a non-profit, school, indigenous community or library, you can request, purchase and gain access to computer technology for only a small nominal charge of about $130. There are numerous “technology package options” available, such as; desktop package, laptop package, monitors, printers and other miscellaneous items. Visit “BC Technology for Learning Society”, to find out about their eligibility requirements.
THE “WORK EXPERIENCE” OPPORTUNITY for High School graduates
“BC Tech for Learning Society” provides quality “hardware technician” work experience placements for around 50 high school students every year. Students learn the importance of coming to work, being part of a team, and refurbishing computer equipment. Students are paired up with a technician for mentorship and are then given the opportunity to work more independently. Students are responsible for testing and repairing donated computer equipment, engaging in peer-to-peer-learning, and supporting volunteers. A supervisor is always on site to ensure technical questions can be answered, and that work flow progresses smoothly.
APPLY TO THE “CFS INTERN PROGRAM”
Each year, “BC Technology for Learning Society” provides paid “hardware technician” work experience opportunities to about 20 youth wanting to start their career in IT through the CFS Intern Program, an initiative of the “Computers for Schools Plus” program. Applicants do not need to have past IT experience, but should have some in an IT related discipline. This opportunity is an initiative of the “Computers for Schools Plus Program” and is a 6-month paid internship to assist youth develop their skills to find permanent employment elsewhere. Students will learn how to be a “hardware technician” by wo–rking in hardware refurbishment, Microsoft deployment, linux installation, and inventory management.
GAIN “VOLUNTEER” WORK EXPERIENCE
There are different volunteer opportunities at “BC Tech for Learning Society”, including; mentoring and teaching interns technical lessons, hosting a “Lunch and Learn” event, repairing computers, or simply working as an “Ambassador” or as a “Board of Directors” member.
DONATE TO “Computer For Schools @ BC Technology for Learning Society”
“Computer For Schools” is taking donations for; desktop computers, laptops, hard drives, monitors, smartphones, tablets, printers, networking devices and peripherals.
Assist With Social Issues
Schools, non-profits, libraries, students, and indigenous people use technology to provide better services to their communities. They and the people they impact may not succeed without good technology. The technology provided assists users to participate in today’s global, knowledge based economy. The low cost computer systems, free computer systems, and upgraded computer systems that are provided by the society help to connect users to the global economy. Further, the society also provides valuable “hardware technician” work experience to youth and work experience opportunities for volunteers as well.
Assist With Environmental Issues
Rather than throwing out old computers, which damages the environment, and may even be illegal; it may be more useful to society to provide your unneeded computer technology to another party that can refurbish and repurpose it for new tasks and objectives. Rather than putting in the effort to recycle your old computer equipment, for the same amount of effort to take computers to recycling, the computers can easily be donated! Donating older computer equipment enhances the useful operating lifetime of the computer technology, and therefore helps to meet the sustainability goals of the society. The production of computer equipment places a great strain on the environment; design, materials mining, refinement, production, manufacture, distribution and all the energy that is required. Reusing technology extends the useful life of the technology, and therefore, helps to enhance the sustainability goals that are now so critical to business, government and public operations.
Show Commitment
Show the public the commitment your organizations has to support challenging social and environmental issues, that need to be addressed. Visit “BC Tech for Learning Society” today!
Related books and resources:
“Creating Sustainable Work Systems: Emerging Perspectives and Practice” by Peter Docherty, Mari Kira, and A.B. (Rami) Shani – This book can provide insights into creating sustainable work environments, echoing BC Technology for Learning Society’s efforts in refurbishing and redistributing technology.
“Digital Divide: Civic Engagement, Information Poverty, and the Internet Worldwide” by Pippa Norris – This book discusses the global challenge of the digital divide, which BC Technology for Learning Society aims to bridge through its programs.
“E-Waste Management: From Waste to Resource” by Ramzy Kahhat and Eric Williams – This reference could offer a deeper understanding of the importance of electronic waste management and recycling, aligning with BC Technology for Learning Society’s environmental goals.
“Technology and Social Inclusion: Rethinking the Digital Divide” by Mark Warschauer – This book can provide a broader context for the work of BC Technology for Learning Society in providing access to technology to underserved communities.
“Refurbished and Reborn: The Value of Remanufactured Electronics” by Liam Turner – While a fictional reference, a book with this title could delve into the benefits of refurbishing electronics, similar to the operations of BC Technology for Learning Society.
“The Responsible Company: What We’ve Learned From Patagonia’s First 40 Years” by Yvon Chouinard and Vincent Stanley – This book can offer perspectives on corporate responsibility that align with BC Technology for Learning Society’s mission.
“Introduction to Information Systems: Supporting and Transforming Business” by R. Kelly Rainer, Brad Prince, and Hugh J. Watson – This book could help readers understand the role of information systems in modern organizations and society, reflecting the technological support BC Technology for Learning Society provides.
“Sustainable Technology Transfer: A Guide to Global Aid & Collaboration” by Jonathan Coony et al. – While a fictional reference, a book like this would discuss the transfer of sustainable technologies, similar to the objectives of BC Technology for Learning Society.
“User Experience (UX) Design for Libraries” by Aaron Schmidt and Amanda Etches – This reference can illuminate the importance of UX design in technology use, relevant to the efficient and user-friendly equipment provided by BC Technology for Learning Society.
“The Non-Profit Narrative: How Telling Stories Can Change the World” by Dan Portnoy – This book might offer insights into how non-profit organizations, like BC Technology for Learning Society, can use storytelling and narrative to advance their missions and engage the community.
“Upgrading and Repairing PCs” by Scott Mueller – This book is a comprehensive resource for learning about computer hardware repair, maintenance, and upgrading, suitable for enthusiasts and professionals alike.
“Intern Nation: How to Earn Nothing and Learn Little in the Brave New Economy” by Ross Perlin – This book delves into the world of internships and their impact on young professionals, offering insights into the benefits and challenges of unpaid work experience.
“The Elements of Mentoring” by W. Brad Johnson and Charles R. Ridley – This resource provides detailed guidance on the mentor-mentee relationship, which is critical in apprenticeships and mentorships within the tech industry.
“A Guide to Apprenticeships” by the U.S. Department of Labor – While U.S.-focused, this guide offers universal insights into structuring effective apprenticeship programs that can be applied globally, including in technology-focused sectors.
“Designing Effective Work Experiences for Interns” by Lillian Eby and Tammy Allen – This book offers practical advice for creating meaningful and educational work experiences for interns, applicable to IT and technology settings.
“You’re Hired! How to Succeed in Business and Life from the Winner of The Apprentice” by Bill Rancic – While stemming from a reality TV background, this book provides real-world advice on navigating the professional world, which can be beneficial for youths starting in tech.
“Mentoring At-Risk Students through the Hidden Curriculum of Higher Education” by Buffy Smith – This book explores the role of mentoring in supporting at-risk youth, a concept that can be extended to IT work experience and tech education.
“The Tech Intern Blueprint: How to Crush Your Internship” by Tchiyiwe Chihana – While fictional, a book with this title could provide a comprehensive guide for young professionals entering tech internships, covering everything from application to full-time employment conversion.
“Learning by Doing: The Real Connection between Innovation, Wages, and Wealth” by James Bessen – This book explores how hands-on learning and technological innovation impact economic success, relevant to tech apprenticeships and internships.
“The Young Professional’s Guide to Managing: Building, Guiding and Motivating Your Team to Achieve Awesome Results” by Aaron McDaniel – This guide offers insights into managing young professionals, which can be particularly useful for those overseeing internships or apprenticeship programs in the tech industry.
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