Representatives from different state colleges and universities all over the Philippines participated in the Online Writing Techniques Seminar Workshop sponsored by CICT on June 28-30, 2008 at the Oasis Hotel, Angeles City. The participants use laptop computers to create online articles and blogs as part of the event activities.As part of the iSchool project of CICT, trainors from participating state colleges and universities are required to take the International Computing Driver's License (ICDL) exam. The exam includes seven modules which covers basic concepts in end-user computing. The modules are as follows:
Module 1 – Basic Concepts of IT
Module 2 – Using a Computer and Managing Files
Module 3 – Word Processing
Module 4 – Spreadsheets
Module 5 – Database
Module 6 – Presentations
Module 7 – Information and Communications
To qualify for the preliminary exam, you should pass 4 out of 7 modules of choice. If successful, you will be issued an ICDL license and will undergo Computer and Internet Literacy (CILC) training with CICT. The remaining modules will be included in the advance level exam.
To prepare for the ICDL exam you need to be proficient in the use of Open Source technologies such as Linux, Ubuntu, Open Office and at least have basic knowledge in concepts related to ICT. The study guides are available over the Internet.
A mixture of rough roads and security concerns did not hinder the Pampanga Agricultural College (PAC) 2007 iSchools Project team to get the site inspections done in Maungib and San Jose High Schools, Tarlac.
Aboard the college vehicle, the team led by Engr. Lyndon Solis travelled over partially cemented roads going to Maungib High School. “It was a difficult travel for us since the roads are all muddy because it rained the previous day,” says Engr. Solis.
They were warmly received by Ms. Sherry Cayanan, the school principal. “We hope we will get accepted in iSchools because the school has only one computer unit and there are no telephone lines,” says Ms. Cayanan.
Before proceeding to the next school, the team met with Mrs. Victoria Aguas, district supervisor to inquire about security concerns regarding the vicinity of San Jose High School. A feedback was given by the previous evaluators from the Tarlac College of Agriculture regarding the presence of NPA rebel insurgents in the area. Mrs. Aguas contacted the mayor of San Jose who later gave the information that peace and order was already restored in the place.It was later found out that San Jose High School has a computer laboratory.
After finishing the task in Tarlac, the team went back to Pampanga with high hopes that the two schools were accepted as recipients of the 2007 iSchools project.
