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Computer education in schools in India: the role of FOSS
Speaker Details
Speaker / Panel Lead
Speaker User Name: 
Dr. Farida Khan
Speaker Bio: 
Dr Farida Khan is VP-Learning and Research, at InOpen Technoliges. She received her PhD degree in Psychology from IIT Bombay, M.A and B.A. (Hons) from University of Mumbai. She has been awarded Gold medal by University of Mumbai. Her areas of expertise include understanding learner requirements, developing content and conducting impact assessment studies. She has published papers in International and national journals and presented research papers in around 15 international and national conferences. She is the co-author of Computer Masti, curriculum and series of books. Having field tested the course content, her insights have been instrumental in refining and adapting the content to meet the student and teacher requirements. Her research interests include: education engineering, need assessment, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) and gender, bridging the digital divide. She is a FOSS enthusiast and enjoys exploring educational applications.
Co-Speaker / Panelist
Speaker User Name: 
Rupesh Kumar Shah
Speaker Bio: 
An alumnus of IIM Calcutta, Rupesh Shah, is a very creative and assiduous individual. His passion lies in leveraging Open Source based content and technology for Education. Rupesh always wanted to impart knowledge and share his experience with others and this is what motivated him to create educational solutions that focus on creating content that is innovative and one of its kind in its approach. He is very fervent about his new venture (InOpen Technologies) and intends to revolutionize the way computer training is imparted to students at schools. His keen interest and deep knowledge of Open Source and the desire to contribute to the education domain led to germination of InOpen Technologies Pvt Ltd that has successfully created a fun and game based computer learning experience through Computer Masti. Rupesh carries with him analytical, statistical skills and expertise in project management. He is level-headed and focused to convert ideas-to-reality. Prior to InOpen Rupesh was actively involved in imparting Open Source knowledge to over 6000 college students and various organisations. He has also trained the likes of Indian Air Force staff. Rupesh is a Computer Science Engineer and obtained the degree from Rajasthan University. Rupesh did his research work at IIT Bombay where he along with his team developed a Linux based Operating System called ‘Intux.’ Rupesh is currently pursuing Executive MBA from IIM Calcutta in Business Analytics.
Proposal Details
Session Type: 
Presentation - 45 Minutes
Abstract: 
The central focus of the talk is to understand the role of FOSS in extending education reach and its requirements for Indian students. We will talk about computer learning programmes (CLPS), with a stress on the importance of curriculum design as a critical factor. We propose an integrated approach in our FOSS based teaching of computers in school. In addition, we focus on developing critical thinking, and ethos of lifelong learning and social responsibility. In the second part of the talk, we would talk about how teacher training equips the facilitators to deliver this course content. Thus, a three-pronged approach is suggested--curriculum, instruction material and teacher training -- so that a dent in made and FOSS makes inroads in the school ecosystem.
Target Audience: 
Students
Tracks: 
  • Developer / Tools & Techniques