The lessons, coinciding with International Day for Persons with Disabilities on December 3, are being conducted in partnership with Microsoft Qatar as part of its Computer Science Week initiative, according to a press statement.
Children with special needs, as well as orphans, young Qatari females and Qatari mothers will be coached by experts from Microsoft’s Philanthropies and Services teams on important aspects of information technology.
Last year, QC worked with Microsoft and ExxonMobil Qatar to teach the fundamentals of computer-game coding to orphans, using Microsoft’s visual-programming language, Kodu.
This year’s classroom sessions began on December 1 with basic ICT training for children with mild disabilities. The purpose of the course is to introduce the concept of computing to those who may otherwise not get the opportunity to learn from specialists, the statement notes.
During the classes, mentors cover what a computer is and the various types of device that qualify as computers. Students also get a run-down of the major components inside a computer, and the typical peripherals that make machines more usable. There are lessons on how to use a mouse and keyboard, and an overview of the Windows desktop as well as software applications such as Microsoft Paint, Word and PowerPoint.
Bilal Tamimi from Microsoft’s Services team introduced children to the wonders of the Internet, explaining what it is, how it works and how to get the most out of it. Web services such as Bing search, Outlook e-mail and calendar, Skype communication, and games like Minecraft were also covered.
“In ensuring the basic human dignity of all, regardless of circumstance, access to technology is a critical step. It is a privilege to once again work with Microsoft towards this goal,” said Hamed Shihadeh, community partnership manager, QC.
Qatar Charity and Microsoft also held training sessions at Microsoft’s facilities in Qatar Science & Technology Park, specifically for Minecraft gamers, on December 8 for young orphan students. Today, they will address young Qatari female students.
On December 22, QC will turn its attention to the issue of Internet safety by running awareness sessions for Qatari mothers that will allow them to keep their children from coming to harm when surfing the World Wide Web.
“It is always a great honour to work alongside organisations like Qatar Charity, which have similar aspirations,” said Lana Khalaf, acting general manager, Microsoft Qatar.
Source: http://www.gulf-times.com/story/524801/QC-ties-up-with-Microsoft-to-educate-special-needs-children