Toolkit

Story: The $100 laptop: A well intentioned waste of time?

Posted by: Amy Anselm (Thursday 1 June 2006, 7:15 PM)

The OLPC project is not attempting to solve all of the problems in developing nations. They are trying to provide kids with "a window to the outside world and tool with which to think" so that they can help themselves.
This is free, but it's not a hand out -- it's a hand UP.
Also, don't assume that every kid in developing nations is starving -- it's flatly not true. Of course there are a huge number who do need adequate food, water, and sanitary accomodations -- but if you are truly concerned then you'll get involved with one of the many organizations already dedicated to alleviating these needs. They can always use the help.
Also, this laptop will do quite a bit more than provide internet access. It will allow kids to create and share, it can be used as a tool to help them learn to read and write, it will be a means of communication first locally and eventually globally... the possibilities are limitless, especially as more kids get involved, play with the code, and teach their fellows.
This is not a tool for a vague future, it's the tool of tomorrow. Putting off its implementation would postpone dealing with educational needs just as it has been done for years now.
For now, if you think it's a good idea then lend a hand in its creation and implementation, help it become a reality.