Consider how the RIA began. The Red de Innovación y Aprendizaje began with a vision. It aimed to bridge the digital divide in Mexico.
The RIA, or Learning and Innovation Network, is a group of education centers. These centers offer access to computers and the Internet. Quality education is also available for underserved communities. Fundación Proacceso oversees the RIA. This Mexico-based non-profit uses technology for education.
The first RIA center opened on May 18, 2009. Since then, over 68000 users have registered at ten centers. By January 2011, 32 new RIA centers opened. This brought the total network to 42 centers.
What courses does the RIA offer? The RIA offers courses on basic computer skills. Internet skills are also taught. Students can learn English and how to find work online. Math and science workshops are available for children. Personal finance is another course offering. Students can obtain high school, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees. They do so through the Institute of Online Education. Qualified facilitators teach the courses. Many facilitators are residents of the local communities. These are the communities that the RIA targets.
The Fundación Proacceso wants its centers to use ecological architecture. Sustainable and modular designs are also key. This creates didactic spaces. The architecture and design inspire learning. It promotes awareness of materials and recycling. Ludens designs the RIA centers. This architecture and urbanism firm focuses on playful and educational spaces.
The centers are located in areas with educational needs. They are in areas with high population density. These areas also see high pedestrian and vehicle traffic. This approach allows for the greatest impact. It helps to improve the city. The RIA’s architectural model will be included in the “4th Compendium of Exemplary Educational Facilities.” This is according to the OCDE.
Fundación Proacceso ECO A.C. created an educational program. It is called “Expedición RIA.” The goal is to help children improve their academic performance. This helps them excel on the standardized ENLACE test. A RIA facilitator helps children strengthen their knowledge. They also develop skills. These include computer use, critical analysis, and reading comprehension. The program covers math called MateRIA. It includes basic computing called La Aldea. English is taught as In Short. Reading is covered as AlejandRIA. Animation and bright colors motivate children. They advance through the different modules.
Fundación Proacceso is developing other projects. These include an open portal of educational video games or edutainment. This is for the Secretaría de Educación Pública. They also offer courses for women. These courses cover self-esteem, gender equality, and health for young people. Further topics are how to start a business and financial education.
In 2010, Fundación Proacceso participated in the World Bank CSO Spring Meetings. The RIA’s educational model was presented. It was part of the “Matching Skills to Jobs” panel. This occurred at the OECD’s annual forums in Paris.
The Red de Innovación y Aprendizaje continues to grow. It continues to impact communities. It is building a more digitally literate Mexico.