Digital storytelling: The Megan Funston story

Remote students in the Goldfields Esperance Region are flocking to computer classes delivered with Curtin's new mobile computer room (MCR). The $100,000 computer station prototype has 12 laptops, a printer, a portable server, and a wireless network for cordless Internet access and is equipped with a range of educational software. At only a metre high it fits neatly into the back of a Rodeo Ute. Metal ramps and an electronic winch make loading and unloading the MCR a simple job.

Megan Funston and the MCR

In August, Curtin VTEC lecturers Megan Funston (computer skills) and Tina Kinnell (art) decided to use the MCR for monthly three-day teaching sessions throughout the North Eastern Goldfields. Short courses have also been offered at Eucla and Cocklebiddy.

The opportunity to visit students at a range of small remote communities and in their own familiar surroundings has seen more than 57 indigenous and 23 non-indigenous people attend classes. The computing classes introduce students to computers, Microsoft Office and Multimedia hardware such as video and computer cameras. The Art classes, 'drawing and painting', are usually held in a garden. All students are encouraged to attend both computing and art and between visits are supplied with learning resources, art materials, off-line computer access and tutorial support.

Art class in Laverton and the computing class in Leonora

In 2002, all VET courses require students to meet competencies in computing, and the MCR has now enabled off-campus students and trainees to be provided with access to computers in remote and workplace environments. Megan Funston has supported Curtin's Trades lecturers to ensure their learners develop computing competencies. The MCR has been used to assist Indigenous Metalliferous Mining trainees in Norseman (200km South of Kalgoorlie) and Indigenous Construction trainees in Laverton (377 km North of Kalgoorlie). The MCR has also been used to support apprentice electricians and Frontline Management students.

Jackie McLean of Laverton