Research Design
Introduction
The research methodology uses a judicious mix of both qualitative and quantitative tools. The qualitative approach focuses on anecdotal aspects like observation by the researcher, diaries written by children and interviews of children, parents and other community members. Quantitative approach measures aspects like improvement in academic performance and acquisition of computing skills. It also captures data on any increase in school enrolment and decrease in dropouts. Sociometric methods are used to map the community of learners and the generation and flow of knowledge. Also, the Remote Monitoring System™ continuously captures data on computer and application usage.
Sample groups
Representative sample groups of children are selected with due considerations for demographic and socio-economic variations. Research is conducted on two groups of children - experimental group and control group.
Experimental group consists of children who use the Learning Station; the control group consists of comparable set of children from a nearby locality who do not have access to the Learning Station.
Information is also collected on child's background as it provides insights into factors that might influence his or her learning.
Time Frame
The research design is based on performance of experimental and control group before and after installation of the Learning Stations. This is done to assess the change in performance of children as a result of exposure to the MIE Learning Station over a period of time.
• Pre or baseline data enables HiWEL to examine the performance level prior to installation of Learning Stations.
• Post data enables HiWEL to examine the performance level, at fixed intervals after the installation of Learning Stations.
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