A Phi Kappa Phi member with a Master's in Educational Technology from Boise State University, Gretel Patch calls herself the EdTechDidi [Didi is a Hindi word that means older sister and is often used to describe one who works for you, one you respect, one who walks beside you on your journey]. In 2013, Gretel received the Secretary of State Award for Outstanding Volunteerism Abroad for her efforts to improve digital literacy skills of underprivileged youth in Nepal. Now living in Mumbai, Gretel seeks this literacy grant to help share her skills with the girls at Sharanam Centre. In cooperation with teachers, staff, and volunteers, and using educational best practices, Gretel will build upon existing structures to strengthen literacy in three areas:
Goal 1: Girls will improve English language skills Objective: To receive individualized practice using online programs, iPad apps, and other resources to improve English language fluency Measuring Tool: Built-in analytics will measure individual progress and be reviewed by teacher volunteers.
Goal 2: Girls will learn digital literacy skills Objective: To utilize their five computer terminals with Internet for much more than word processing. Girls will try a hand at coding, design, presentation, storytelling, and geospatial exploration. They will learn email and social media safe practices and solidify a variety of necessary digital literacies. Measuring Tool: Student projects will be measured informally through student interaction and engagement.
Goal 3: Girls will strengthen their innovative spirits Objective: To experiment with a variety of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics manipulatives and resources designed to inspire and create. Measuring Tool: Students will share their creative work online to a greater audience via social media and also in-person with each other and volunteers.