Full Name: Ngonidzashe Maposa
University: The University of Hong Kong

Title of LiA Project: Tech Your Health

The Organisation Charity: Timothy Smith Network

Organisation Charity Contact:
Full Name: Alessandra Brown
Email Address: abrown@timothysmithnetwork.org

The Need or Cause Being Supported:
Bridging the digital divide in Greater Roxbury Area

Goal:
The Timothy Smith Network (TSN) empowers organizations and individuals to effectively access and use cutting-edge technology in the exploding digital economy. As a nonprofit organization, TSN seeks to bridge the digital divide by creating opportunities for people of all ages to access technology and technology education with the goal of preparing them for higher education and futures in today’s 21st century tech-driven workforce.

Objectives:

1. Deliver a series of hands-on coding and electronics workshops, aiming for participants to demonstrate proficiency in Python and basic circuit design by the end of the program.
2. Develop engaging lesson plans that incorporate gamified elements (e.g., Kahoot, Mentimeter) to maintain student interest and assess their understanding.
3. Facilitate student projects that address real health problems, leading to a presentation of their prototypes and findings, with at all of the students showcasing their work at the end of the program.

Challenges, Barriers or Risks:

• Varied Skill Levels: Participants may come in with different levels of prior knowledge, making it challenging to ensure that everyone keeps pace.
• Technical Issues: Potential problems with hardware (like Arduino kits) and software (such as libraries not working) could disrupt the flow of lessons.
• Time Management: Balancing the time needed for coding, electronics, and project development might be difficult, especially with the limited program duration.

Ideas to Overcome Barriers or Challenges:

• Tailored Instruction: Implement differentiated instruction strategies to accommodate various skill levels, providing one-on-one support where needed.
• Preparation and Troubleshooting: Set aside time for testing equipment and coding examples in advance to minimize technical issues during class.
• Structured Timeline: Develop a clear schedule that allocates time for each activity while allowing flexibility for students to progress at their own pace.

Milestones per Week:
Week 1: Introduction to Technology and Health

• Orientation session introducing the program and its objectives.
• Engage students in discussions about health issues and the role of technology in addressing them.
• Introduce foundational concepts in health and technology through interactive activities.

Week 2: Coding Fundamentals

• Teach Python basics using Jupyter Notebook to illustrate coding concepts visually.
• Cover variables, flow control, functions, and libraries, ensuring students build confidence in their coding abilities.
• Incorporate group activities and discussions to assess understanding and engagement.

Week 3: Exploring Electronics

• Dive into electronics fundamentals, covering circuits, voltage, and current.
• Utilize Arduino kits to connect LEDs and sensors, demonstrating real-world applications.
• Encourage experimentation while providing support for troubleshooting technical issues.

Week 4: Engineering Design

• Guide students in identifying a health problem they wish to tackle using technology.
• Facilitate research and brainstorming sessions to outline potential solutions and necessary materials.
• Begin planning for prototype development, emphasizing teamwork and collaboration.

Week 5: Prototype Development

• Assist students in coding and designing their prototypes based on their earlier plans.
• Monitor progress, offering feedback and support to help them overcome challenges.
• Foster a collaborative environment where students can share insights and assist one another.

Final Week: Presentations and Reflections

• Organize a showcase event where students present their prototypes and discuss their learning experiences.
• Encourage them to reflect on their journeys, challenges faced, and the skills acquired.
• Conduct final evaluations to assess program outcomes and gather feedback for future improvements.