Impediments to Computer Based Learning in the Developing World

Jamsheer Talati, Inam Pal, Kamran Hameed, Kamran Javaid, Syed Mehmood Ali Shah, Roger A L Sutton, Camer W Vellani

The Aga Khan University

Abstract:

In the 21st century if we wish to eliminate reservoirs of crippling diseases such as polio, it is necessary to ensure high quality education across the world. In this presentation we have discussed impediments to learning through computers.

Internet is an enormous learning resource. Its access requires use of telephone lines and access to a server. This double charge prevents students from accessing Internet more frequently. Third world universities cannot absorb this cost to make Internet free. CDs for single person use cost $400 equivalent to the monthly salary of a senior Instructor. Costs are a major deterrent. [1]

In a move to student directed learning in small groups, we prepared cases with ancillary learning material first as handouts and later as computer based diskettes and more recently information on our local area network (LAN). A demonstration of an Internet linked presentations for learning developed by the Aga Khan University (AKU) is included to reiterate the value of computer based learning.

Analysis of use of Internet showed that only 40% of the class used Internet. At AKU, 56% of students own a personal computer at home. Whilst lack of familiarity with computers is not a deterrent at AKU it is an issue at other medical colleges. [2]

Many students at AKU use Email (average time few seconds) but are reluctant to spend on even 3 hours per week for Internet (Rs. 75 or USD 1.5 per week).

Apart from cost, students do not pay attention to web based case initiated learning because of competing information given as lectures and tested as defined quanta of knowledge. [3]

Copyright laws do not allow downloading of programs for teaching even if acknowledged. [4]

This prevents teachers in the developing world from designing programs which incorporate material from other sources. Conversely a transparency prepared from a text is an accepted teaching adjunct.

Other than AKU few universities in Pakistan, if any possess a LAN. [5] Even at AKU, which has excellent educational programs, server space had first to be borrowed on the hospital server. An additional server costs US$25,000 (five times the annual fees for a medical student).

This conference could assist the developing world by gaining greater clarity regarding copyright issues and identifying support sources.

Benefit in Attending Session:

International Standards should be instituted in all medical colleges across the globe if reservoirs of disease are to be eliminated. This requires rapid access to information on internet and in CDs. Currently costs are prohibitive for developing countries copyright prevent use of a lot of educational material. We hope to generate discussions on facilitating computer-based learning in the developing world.

PRIMARY AUTHOR'S INFORMATION

Jamsheer Talati, MD, FRCS

The Aga Khan University

Stadium Road, PO Box 3500

Karachi 74800

Pakistan

Telephone Number: 92 21 48594500 or 48594501

Fax Number: 92 21 4932095 or 4932494

E-mail Address: jamsheer.talati@aku.edu

CO-AUTHORS' INFORMATION

Dr. Sutton, MD, FRCP

The Aga Khan University

Stadium Road, PO Box 3500

Karachi 74800

Pakistan

Telephone Number(s): 92 21 48594409

Fax Number(s): 92 21 4932095 or 4932494

E-mail Address(es): roger.sutton@aku.edu