LearningSPACE

Portable Library System

The children of Africa each have a story to tell. They have a captivating smile, a beautiful song, a colorful dance. They are full of hopes and big dreams to reach their God-given potential. Most of these children face an uncertain future because their governments and families cannot provide adequate learning facilities, books or programs, though they are full of enthusiasm to learn.

LearningSPACE meets the educational needs of children through building portable library systems, providing reading programs and computer centers. The innovative idea for converting shipping containers into portable library systems was first launched by SMILE AFRICA in 2003. The large retrofitted containers are abundant in supply, relatively inexpensive and structurally sound. Inside they are furnished with shelves and stocked with books, computers and literacy programs, which are provided free of charge to disadvantaged schools.

Guiding principles:

The key principles identified by SMILE AFRICA to make the LearningSPACE program successful in developing the intellectual and moral capacities of learners are:

• Raising Public Awareness
• Inviting Community Participation
• Empowering Learners
• Fostering Global Connection

Reading coaches facilitate a weekly reading and discussion sessions. Journaling is a key component of the curriculum, providing the learner with an opportunity to individually develop his or her reading ability, and further receive coaching towards attainment of goals.

 
The structure:
 
• A weekly reading program for preschoolers, and grades 1-4
• A reading/exploring/journaling program for grades 5-9
• A reading/research/writing program for grads 10-12
• Computer applications training
• Reading coach/teacher training program for adult volunteers and teachers
• Age appropriate leadership and enterprise training