The Archie L. Hunter Media Discovery Center
The School of Education and Ellicott-Masten branch of the YMCA have collaborated to develop a technology-learning center at the William Street YMCA in Buffalo’s Eastside. This space--The Archie L. Hunter Media Discovery Center--is designed to assist in bridging the technological gap found between seniors and the youth to whom they are guardians. The program establishes resources and curriculum intended to connect area community members, in particular elder members, with up-to-date equipment and training that will help them become familiar with commonly used electronics.
With support from SUNY Administration, the School of Education was able to purchase and install computer workstations and other office and classroom equipment at the YMCA. The Archie L. Hunter Media Discover Center was officially launched in June of 2010. Along with members and staff organizers at the William Street YMCA, the School of Education determines effective and relevant curriculum needs including: the practical use of computer software such as Word and Excel, how to conduct internet searches and online research, ways to become adept at using electronic equipment such as printers and video and still cameras. Buffalo State students, staff, and faculty volunteers will provide instruction to YMCA members each semester.
Goals
The Buffalo State and YMCA collaboration project seeks to 1) connect area residents, in particular seniors who visit the center, with technology resources and training, and 2) develop an opportunity for members of the Buffalo State College community to interact with area residents.
Objectives
Buffalo State community members will provide instruction to the YMCA senior population regarding effective and practical use of standard technology including how to use computer hardware and software, printers, scanners, digital still cameras, and etc. Although this project is directed toward senior citizens, there will be opportunities for other groups, namely youth, to participate.
- Establish a dynamic catalog of computer literacy programs.
- Establish an effective delivery system to ensure consistent and qualified instruction through the various program periods.
- Incorporate a curriculum focused on, but not limited to, senior education.
- Include within the curriculum a segment dedicated to bridging the technological gap found between seniors and the youth to whom they may be guardians.
- Collaborate with partners outside of the YMCA and Buffalo State College to enhance the program catalog and infuse current technological advancements into the curriculum.
GET INVOLVED
We are always looking for your help in making the Buffalo State College-YMCA partnership a success. Tutors are needed at The Archie L. Hunter Media Discovery Center year-round. Students, staff, faculty and community members are invited to share their expertise and time with this valuable project.
Students can foster their service learning skills, enhance their community involvement, and build their professional and personal experiences, as well as their résumés
Professors can build this as a service-learning activity into their syllabi as an element of their courses and/or announce the opportunity in their classes and encourage students to become involved.
Anyone can contact the School of Education directly to offer her or his volunteer service as a tutor, to serve as a liaison to an area organization, or to suggest materials, curriculum ideas, or potential funding sources to build the program.
Everyone please download and print the POSTER and share with your friends and colleagues! (PDF 89kb)
