Learners work in teams to develop websites on issues affecting their community directly. They search for content from community support organisations, and with the assistance of their teachers, community organisations and parents they compile the information into a website.

The websites developed are compiled on CDs for distribution to schools, and form part of ThinkQuest Uganda’s electronic library. The library is a central repository relating to information communications technology (ICT) application for addressing community challenges and the catalysation of the creation and exchange of local content.

Community organisations offer awards for different categories. For example, HIV/AIDs organisations provide HIV/AIDs website awards and environment organistions, environment awards.

The project uses free online resources available on the internet, including online tutorials about website development, versions of evaluation software, internet explorer and front page. With regard to open source software, they use The Open Source Development Site a resource for young web developers.

The project provides an opportunity for formation of computer clubs and existing clubs to be more active in utilising computer resources beyond classroom based learning. It also runs voluntary training workshops managed by previous contestants. They undertake on collaborative training workshops with local schoolnets and projects.

Technology.

ThinkQuest Uganda Contest hopes to:

• optimise the already existing ICT infrastructure and skills building
• address community challenges such as gender issues and HIV/AIDs while promoting learning and teaching using ICTs
• catalyse the creation and exchange of local content.