Home
Subscribe
Internet Access and Training Program (IATP)
IATP News for October 2006
E-mail this pageView news from:
TAJIKISTAN
Ruslan Mustaev (standing) teaches
political party representatives
computer skills the use of weblogs
in campaigns
Representatives of Political Parties Gain Computer Skills in Khujand, Tajikistan
From September 27 to October 27, twelve representatives of six political parties of Tajikistan completed a series of specialized trainings on computer basics and word processing conducted by volunteer Ruslan Mustaev at the IATP access site in Khujand, Tajikistan. The trainings are part of IATP’s contribution to the US Embassy’s Democracy Commission-funded project entitled, “Internet Club for Political Parties of Tajikistan” implemented by the Center of Democratic Transformations (CDT), a nonprofit organization working to promote democratic transformations through research and training projects dealing with human rights, the environment and efficient public administration.
According to The Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, the parliamentary elections held in Tajikistan in February 2005 fell short of international standards. The upcoming presidential elections scheduled for November 6, although expected not to be competitive, could be an important step toward a democratic society, if conducted transparently. CDT received a six-month grant in the amount of $2,547 to foster equal access of representatives of various political parties in Khujand to information on politics, democracy, human rights, and information technologies (IT) by creating a online Network of Political Parties and organizing roundtables, English lessons, and IT courses using IATP resources until April 2007.
Mustaev taught the participants, many of whom had never used computers before, basic skills from how to use a mouse, to word processing, to creating tables and forms. Next week, he will teach the trainees Internet basics skills to enable them search for relevant news and information online, use e-mail, and exchange ideas in online discussions. Representatives of political parties need this training, as once equipped with IT skills they will be able to access news and analytical reports about political, economic, and social developments across the country and the world, discuss ideas in online forums, obtain information about different professional development programs and events, and learn about civilized and democratic methods of conducting political activity which will be a great contribution to strengthening of tolerance and political stability in the country.
Lyudmila Bakhmutova from the Communist Party of Tajikistan commented, “I opened a window to the world in my life. Since the first time I heard about computers, I always wanted to learn more about them.” Several media outlets, including the Varorud Informational-Analytical Agency, the Tajik Service of Radio Free Europe Radio Liberty, and Asia Plus have already covered project activities on their websites. IATP will continue equipping local politicians and citizens with necessary skills to help them work more efficiently and effectively, access online resources for updated information, communicate with colleagues from across the country and the world, and contribute to democracy in Tajikistan.
IATP volunteer Safarkhon
Rafiev (rear) demonstrates
the use of Web-based
electioral resources to
Qurbon Samariddinov,
a member of the local
electoral district, at the IATP
access site in Kulyab, Tajikistan.
Residents Access Election-Related Online Resources in Kulyab, Tajikistan
On October 16, the IATP access site in Kulyab, Tajikistan hosted a two-hour seminar entitled, “The Role of the Internet in Elections and the Political Life of the Country” for 15 people, including teachers, students, journalists, and the general public. The purpose of the event was to help increase the awareness of the general public about candidates and campaigns in upcoming presidential elections scheduled for November 6 and encourage citizen participation through the Internet in this important process.
Although governmental organizations and media outlets are presently involved the proceedings, including organizing meetings in communities, broadcasting programs, and publishing articles to increase knowledge of voters and their preparedness to vote, the majority of the population is not engaged in the campaign, as elections are viewed as a state-controlled process with a predetermined outcome as during Soviet times, rather than a free and fair expression of the public’s voice. In addition, most of the TV and radio stations are government-owned, while private media outlets refrain from providing full coverage of elections.
To begin the seminar, Qurbon Samariddinov, a member of a local electoral commission based at Kulyab State University, IATP’s partner organization, delivered a presentation about five nominated candidates and details of their election campaigns. He encouraged the participants to access regularly various online resources providing comprehensive coverage of the elections in Tajikistan in order to stay updated about the latest developments and consequently, make an informed decision when voting that will impact the future of the nation.
The participants searched the Internet for election-related resources such as the websites of Asia Plus Information Agency and Radio Ozodi to learn more about the issues and candidates independently. Then, IATP staff introduced the participants to Freenet Portal, an online directory of all websites hosted at IATP’s server, and guided them through some websites of political parties of Tajikistan created by users, such as the Communist Party of Tajikistan and the Kanibadam Branch of the People’s Democratic Party of Tajikistan. They also invited participants to take advantage of IATP’s online discussion forums and participate actively in discussion topics posted there to get qualified answers to their questions as well as share their opinions.
Participant Zebo Bahriddinov commented, “Each citizen should actively participate in making elections free and fair, as they are very important for any democratic state. It’s great that we can conveniently stay informed and get answers to questions about election campaigns using the Internet. It surely represents major progress for our country.” By sponsoring this seminar, IATP gave citizens of Tajikistan the ability to access information not available through traditional media outlets in order to make an informed voting decision.
KYRGYZSTAN
Yuriy Danilov’s official website is
now available at danilov.host.net.kg
Member of Parliament in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan Launches Official Website
On October 2, Aysuluu Bekisheva launched the website of Yuriy Danilov, a member of the Jogorku Kenesh, Kyrgyzstan’s parliament, following a five-day Web design course at the IATP access site in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. The site will help Danilov’s constituents communicate with their representative, creating a more responsive government environment. Bekisheva is responsible for public relations and speechwriting for Danilov. IATP Administrator Irina Pak taught seven participants, including Bekisheva, how to use Web design and graphics applications, including the basics of website editing, HTML, and dynamic structure and user-friendly design, from July 17 to 21.
Using her newly acquired skills and having prepared materials for the Web, Bekisheva developed Danilov’s website to share information about his legislative activities and projects, publications and conferences, achievements and plans. Bekisheva remarked, “I suggested that he develop a website to share his accomplishments and plans. Danilov and I worked together on the website design and content. Now, voters and other interested people can track and assess a Member of Parliaments’s work through this website. They also will be able to ask questions of Danilov on various issues.”
Danilov is the deputy chair of the Committee on International Affairs and Inter Parliament Relations at the Kyrgyz Parliament, and represented the legislative branch in several meetings with delegations from the EU, OSCE, and Shanghai Cooperation Organization. Danilov also participated in development of Kyrgyzstan’s Comprehensive Development Plan for 2010, a document containing strategy for political and economic development of the country. The new website brings the total number of resources hosted by IATP in Kyrgyzstan to 937, representing nearly 7% of the Web content hosted in the country.
Stulova uses EBSCO to find
information about Western African
languages at the IIC in Osh,
Kyrgyzstan
Alumna and Administrator Introduce College Students to EBSCO Online Database in Osh, Kyrgyzstan
On October 6, Evgeniya Jludova (CC 04) and Ruslan Abdullaev, the administrator of the Independent Internet Center (IIC) in Osh, Kyrgyzstan, led a three-hour workshop on how to use the EBSCO database for ten students from the World Languages Department of Osh State University at the IIC. US-based EBSCO provides print and electronic journal subscription services and online access to databases and e-journals.
Jludova introduced the participants to EBSCO’s basic and advanced search features, use of encyclopedias, and the student research center with useful features such as reference and topic search. The students also learned how to use EBSCO’s multilingual services to search for materials they need in more than 10 languages by using a translation feature. Using their newly-acquired skills, the participants searched for information using EBSCO’s features. Dariya Stulova (FLEX 06) accessed an article on how culture influenced the development of languages of Western African nations.
Stulova commented, “I am happy that I learned how to use EBSCO. I really liked that we can save our materials, search for specific information, and use it in our academic work. I will be visiting the site to acquire information that is not available locally.” The seminar equipped the local college students with skills to help them address a severe shortage of up-to-date materials necessary for academic work. Over 4,000 residents of Kyrgyzstan benefit from IATP’s services monthly, including more than 200 residents attending courses every month in the basics of computer and Internet use, Web design, and specialized topics.
KAZAKHSTAN
IATP Administrator Alexander
Parfentyev introduces the
participants to word processing
software at the access
site in Almaty, Kazakhstan
Alumni Lead Series of Seminars for Orphans in Almaty, Kazakhstan
On October 20, 14 orphaned students gained valuable skills and found new educational opportunities that will help protect them from poverty and trafficking upon graduation, thanks to the work of four alumni of US-government-sponsored exchange programs. The alumni conducted a nine-hour workshop designed to introduce students of Orphanage #2 to computer and Internet skills, job hunting tips, undergraduate study opportunities in the United States and Kazakhstan, and raise awareness about illegal trafficking in persons at the IATP access site in Almaty, Kazakhstan. Aiman Yedigeyeva (FLEX 05) won a $250 grant for her project, aimed at educational and professional development of senior-year students of orphanages, from the ACCELS-administered FLEX Alumni Grants Program.
IATP Administrator Alexander Parfentyev, Assel Baltabayeva (FLEX 04), and Asemgul Bekesheva (FLEX 05) led courses on word processing software, Internet basics, and computer-based multimedia presentations. Later, Sofya Tairova (UGRAD 06) explained to participants how to write effective resumes, including tips such as clear and condensed description of career goals, logical structure, and attractive design. Using newly-obtained computer and resume writing skills, all 14 students created resumes by describing their career and academic plans, experience, and interests. Tairova also led a session on preparation for job interviews.
Yedigeyeva delivered a 25-minute presentation on the UGRAD exchange program for the participants, walking them through the application form, how to write application essays, and coping with US culture and people based on her experience at Grayson County High School in Independence, VA.
She also shared materials on human trafficking, to help the students differentiate between legitimate study and work opportunities and dangerous scams. UNICEF statistics show that there were over 80,000 abandoned children in Kazakhstan in 2001, with 64,000 of them living in orphanages and children’s homes. In Kazakhstan, graduates of orphanages receive a one-time payment of 3,000 tenge ($20), and generally enter adult life without adequate preparation, putting them at risk of unemployment and crime.
In the workshop’s closing ceremony, participants received certificates of course completion from Alumni Coordinator Akhmaral Mukanova from the Public Affairs Section of the US Embassy and Deputy Country Director Timothy Koss from the American Councils in Almaty, Kazakhstan, who also presented books to orphans to practice English, learn about US higher education, and explore American art.
IATP staff and alumni equipped the orphans with skills that otherwise would have been almost impossible to acquire, as the costs of similar trainings are prohibitive for low-income people. “The idea emerged from my experience in the US, where I had a friend who was orphan, but he succeeded in his career and life without being judged for not having parents,” commented Yedigeyeva. “I immediately thought of our society. I don’t want these kids to suffer anymore and commit crime, so I want to help them by teaching them that they can achieve a lot more than they think they are able.”
Eksuziyan’s personal website is
available at
imperiapovelitelyakukol.kz.iatp.net
Young Visually Impaired Writer Develops Website in Atyrau, Kazakhstan
On October 20, Marina Eksuziyan presented an original new website containing her short stories at the IATP access site in Atyrau, Kazakhstan for an audience of nine local residents, including two teachers. Eksuziyan, an eighteen-year old aspiring mystery writer from Atyrau who has already written over 20 short stories, is visually impaired, but she does not let her sensory limitation slow her budding career.
Eksuziyan previously participated in a Step-by-Step series culminating in two Web design courses from September 11 to 15 and October 9 to 13, in which IATP Administrator Nurgul Nassieyva taught participants how to design a website, create links, and create a user-friendly layout. IATP’s Step-by-Step program uses modular courses to guide people and organizations from the basics of computer use through advanced Web design, culminating in the creation of their own sophisticated websites.
Eksuziyan’s website is designed to share her stories, information about herself, and her interests. Eksuziyan remarked, “The courses helped me share my stories with people from other cities, even countries. I believe readers will like my stories and characters, especially the master of puppets and the cat.” The new website brings the total number of resources hosted by IATP in Kazakhstan to 1,167, representing nearly 9% of the Web content hosted in the country.
UKRAINE
Tetiana Mikhnovets helps participants
during the online discussion
Ukrainian Girls from Disadvantaged Families Learn Computer Technology
On November 7, 15 participants in the Tech Age Girls project (TAG) took part in the online discussion entitled, “Feminism in Ukraine: Myth and Reality.” TAG is an IREX project designed to equip Ukrainian girls from disadvantaged families and rural areas with technology skills to help them secure a brighter future. Tetiana Mikhnovets (CC 02), director of Pani Vsesvit, a non-profit organization working for women’s rights protection, moderated the discussion; she explained to the participants that feminism is a movement for equality of rights of men and women. Then the girls recalled prominent Ukrainian women who expanded the rights of women, including the famous Ukrainian writer Lesia Ukrainka. They also shared their opinions on how women can establish independence; participant Olena from Vinnytsia remarked, “You will become independent from men when you begin to make your own living.” This online conference was the third organized by IATP within the framework of the TAG project to help disadvantaged girls trade advice on how to deal with the challenges they face in their lives. Previously, on October 4, project participants discussed the roles of girls and women in Ukrainian society and volunteerism, and on October 19, they took part in an online discussion dedicated to prevention of human trafficking in Ukraine.
Since the beginning of October, 58 schoolgirls from six regions of Ukraine have attended IATP Step-by-Step training series. They have mastered basic computer skills, learned to use e-mail, and learned to find information about jobs and educational opportunities on the Internet. The girls also have discovered how to create interactive presentations, have gained skills in fundraising, and have learned to write their own resumes. Finally, they have learned the basics of Web design, including HTML, website structure, and visual website editors, and how to post resources onto a server. Twenty-six new websites have been posted to the IATP server by TAG participants so far. By using their newly acquired skills, the girls have begun developing community service projects; the creators of four winning projects will be invited to attend IATP Winter School of Leadership in Kyiv.
For the girls living in rural areas, IATP training is a unique opportunity to learn about information technologies. Ivanna Tsap from Pidhirtsi village (Lviv region) commented, “I am grateful to IATP. The challenge is that we study in a backcountry district, at a school where most of the students and teachers have no idea about the Internet. That is why TAG is a real window to the wide world for us and a great chance to address shortages of resources.”
The TAG project, implemented in Ukraine by IATP, is working to inspire girls to serve their communities, and create new opportunities for themselves and their classmates.
NGO Launches Online Presence in Sevastopol, Ukraine
The Sevastopol Center for Social and
Psychological Help launched an online
presence due to IATP training
On October 20, a new online resource dedicated to the activities of the Sevastopol Center for Social and Psychological Help, a non-commercial organization, was posted to the IATP server. The Center was created in 2005 by a decision of the Sevastopol City Council and provides free accommodation and psychological assistance to disadvantaged people, in particular, for victims of domestic violence and trafficking and single mothers.
Website creators Yulia Kovaliova and Yulia Kohut and other three employees of the Center started attending IATP trainings on Web design on October 20. IATP Trainer Antuanetta Lukianenko covered the main concepts of Web design, including website structure and visual website editors. Participants learned how to use tables in Web pages and how to post resources to a server. Lukianenko also gave recommendations on scanning and editing graphics and demonstrated the IATP Hosting Content Management System (http://iatp.org.ua/miracle.html), used to facilitate Web development for users without knowledge of HTML. In November the participants are to attend two more trainings on HTML coding and on work with graphic images to continue improving the website of their organization.
The newly-created website contains information about the Center’s structure, target audience, services, and rules of inhabitation. The website authors believe that this online resource will help them establish connections with Ukrainian and foreign colleagues, share experiences, and promote the Center’s work to a wider Internet audience.
Elisabeth A. Shumaker (center) and
Edgar L. Neel (right) answer questions
from participants; interpreter Oleh
Likhovy (left) assists
Ukrainian Legal Experts Explore the US Judicial System through IATP Online Discussion
On October 20, IATP access sites throughout Ukraine hosted 28 legal experts and other interested people for a countrywide online discussion entitled, “Comparing the Judicial Systems of the United States and Ukraine.” Elisabeth A. Shumaker, Clerk of the United States Court of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit in Denver, Colorado, and Edgar L. Neel, attorney, were the guest speakers.
The guests stated that they found recent changes in the Ukrainian judicial system positive; in particular, among the main improvements was public access to court decisions. Then Elisabeth A. Shumaker answered questions of the participants. Lyudmyla Gracheva, a judge from the Court of Arbitration in Donetsk, asked, “What US experience could be applied in Ukraine?” Mrs. Shumaker replied that independence of the judicial branch should be enhanced in Ukraine, because at present, the legislative and executive branches have too much power to interfere in the courts. Participants discussed differences between the US and Ukrainian judicial systems, including the role of the jury and salaries of judges in the United States.
Mrs. Shumaker made a series of recommendations for reform of the Ukrainian judicial system, including increased funding, use of modern technologies in legal investigations, and transparency in order to increase confidence in this system. By sponsoring this event, IATP provided an opportunity to Ukrainian legal professionals to learn about the US judicial system firsthand and get ideas for reform of the Ukrainian judicial system.
Seminar attendees explore materials
provided by Volodymyr Korobko
Environmental Engineer Shares Experience with Colleagues in Kryvy Rih, Ukraine
On October 16, the IATP access site in Kryvy Rih, Ukraine, hosted a seminar entitled, “Environmental Technologies,” conducted by Volodymyr Korobko, an employee of Zeleny Svit (Green World), a non-governmental organization working for environmental protection in the city and region, for seven employees of local environmental NGOs. Korobko has used the services of the IATP access site in Kryvy Rih since 2003; among other employees of Zeleny Svit, he attended IATP trainings on the basics of computer and Internet use.
IATP Site Administrator Oleksandr Tkachenko explained how to create documents, edit texts, work with tables, and save information; the participants gained Internet communication skills, including sending messages, images, and scanned documents via e-mail, and learned how to search the Web for information of interest to them. After mastering computer and Internet skills, Korobko regularly used Internet access at the IATP access site to maintain contact with Ukrainian and foreign colleagues and find the newest information on environmental issues.
In July 2006, Korobko he found information about a seminar entitled, “Cooperation for Sustainable Development of Rural Areas” through the GURT electronic newsletter (http://gurt.org.ua). Working from an IATP workstation, he applied and was invited to participate in the event, sponsored by the non-profit MAMA-86 in cooperation with Women in Europe for a Common Future (WECF) on September 20 in Kyiv. Korobko shared his experience and knowledge with colleagues, stressing the importance of Internet use for organizations working for environmental conservation. He demonstrated the website of Coalition Clean Baltic (http://ccb.se/about.html), containing research, news, and other information for environmental NGOs. He also explained how to find information about seminars and other events for environmental engineers online through specialized websites and mailing lists. Finally, Korobko presented to the attendees materials of the seminar concerning problems of sewage purification and utilization in rural areas. The seminar assisted a local NGO employee in his professional development and encouraged him to share his skills and knowledge with his colleagues. Over 180 representatives of Ukrainian non-profit organizations benefit from IATP services every month.
Employees of Vinnytsia Regional
Scientific Library, which hosts and
partners with the IATP access site in
Vinnytsia, took part in the online
discussion
IATP Celebrates Ukrainian Library Day
On September 29, IATP access sites throughout Ukraine hosted over 150 librarians from 38 Ukrainian libraries for an online discussion dedicated to Ukrainian Library Day. Deputy Minister of Culture of Ukraine Olha Shokolo-Bench, and Head of the Library Department of the Ministry of Culture of Ukraine Iryna Shevchenko took part as guest speakers in this traditional IATP online conference, moderated by IATP Country Coordinator for Ukraine Bogdan Mykytsey.
The guest speakers started the online discussion with congratulations to all Ukrainian librarians. Then they described several new initiatives of the Ministry for libraries, including a new general law entitled “On Libraries and Librarianship,” which is due to be submitted to parliament by December 2007. The librarians discussed problems they face in their everyday activities and posed questions to the Ministry representatives about various aspects of library work. Olena Bashun (CI 03), deputy director of the Donetsk Regional Scientific Library, asked, “Employees of rural libraries are entitled by law to public utilities subsidies, which are to be paid from the local government budgets. But in the Donetsk region local officials say that such grants were not included in their budgets. How we can protect rights of rural librarians?” Iryna Shevchenko answered, “You can try to lobby the local government authorities. We will also clarify this issue and let you know.”
The librarians discussed funding opportunities for libraries and the activities of the Ukrainian Library Association, and proposed creating a mailing list for librarians to improve feedback and the efficiency of work of both the libraries and the Ministry of Culture. The participants also agreed to meet in November in an IATP online discussion to discuss further changes and improvements in the law “On Purchasing Goods, Works, and Services for Public Funds,” the first changes to which were lobbied by Ukrainian librarians through IATP online discussions with state officials in December 2005. Through this discussion IATP helped the librarians communicate with responsible government officials, and helped the officials in turn increase their accountability, contributing to a more open and responsive government.
Iryna Hlibko explains principles of
Internet search to students
ECA Alumna Teaches Internet Basics to High School Students in Zhytomyr, Ukraine
On October 11, the IATP access site in Zhytomyr, Ukraine, was the venue for a seminar on work with Internet resources for 14 seniors from Zhytomyr City High School. Iryna Hlibko (PIE 03) conducted the seminar to teach the schoolchildren how to search for information online, based on her experience using the Internet in the United States.
Hlibko strives to encourage students to use information technology (IT) to prepare their homework. She explained to the students how to use the Yahoo! search portal to find information for their studies and personal development. Later, they learned to manage information flow by using files and folders and send messages, images, and scanned documents via e-mail. Hlibko explained the basics of creating electronic presentations with slideshow software.
As a result of the seminar, the students started developing interactive presentations as a part of their homework to supplement traditional essays. IATP fostered IT use among the local students for their studies and personal development and helped an ECA alumna share experience obtained in the United States.
AZERBAIJAN
Gudrat Zeynalov searches the
Internet for work-related resources
at the IATP access site in Imishli,
Azerbaijan
Rural Community in Imishli, Azerbaijan Wins Grant through IATP Access Site
On October 16, Gudrat Zeynalov, head of a citizens’ initiative group in Mirili village, visited the IATP access site in Imishli, Azerbaijan, to share the exciting news that in September his community won a $37,500 grant from the Azerbaijan Rural Investment Project (AZRIP), a government initiative to improve living standards and improve infrastructure in rural communities.
Zeynalov used extensive IT training and experience he gained at the IATP access site to search for donor organizations and strategies for designing successful project proposals, where he learned about AZRIP. He used his skills to start correspondence with AZRIP via the Internet, created and sent his proposal from the IATP access site in April, and in September, received an e-mail announcing that his community organization won the grant. This is a large amount of money in a town where the average salary is less than $80 per month.
Currently, Mirili citizens are preparing to start project implementation, which will help them repair poor roads and have better transportation links with larger cities in the region. The network of IATP access sites in Azerbaijan empowers local people with information technology skills to help them contribute to civil society and economic development in their country.
Seminar participants learn about
Internet resources for effective
fundraising and donor search
at the IATP access site in Imishli,
Azerbaijan
NGO Representatives Learn Effective Fundraising in Imishli, Azerbaijan
On October 21, Aynura Miriyeva from the NGO Araz, and IATP Administrator Abulfat Zeynali taught representatives of civil society organizations and other citizens about the uses of Internet for effective fundraising and donor search at the IATP access site in Imishli, Azerbaijan.
To begin the seminar, Miriyeva gave an overview of the donor landscape in Azerbaijan, listing donors, which organizations and sectors they fund and have funded recently. She also explained that donors do not provide funds to every organization, and decisions depend on the mission and strategy of the donor organization and the relevance of the proposal submitted. Then, Zeynali demonstrated to participants several Internet resources for effective fundraising, such as AzerWeb, an online information system that has update information about NGOs and relief and development projects in Azerbaijan as well as direct links to hundreds of relevant websites. Browsing through websites, participants found useful information which will help them conduct more effective fundraising and improve their work in general. As a result, the participants learned about better fundraising techniques and online resources that will help them search for donors more effectively.
ARMENIA
Peace Corps volunteer Penny Porter
(left) teaches participants how to
start their essays at the IATP access
site in Kapan, Armenia
College Students Improve Essay Writing Skills in Kapan, Armenia
On October 10, eight college students from local universities improved their expository writing skills as they prepared to apply for US scholarship programs. The IATP access site in Kapan, Armenia was the venue for a seminar entitled, “Develop Essay Writing Skills,” conducted by Peace Corps volunteers Hillary George, Phil George, and Penny Porter for students from the Kapan Agro Economic University and the Kapan Branch of the State Engineering University, who intend to apply for the Eurasian Undergraduate Exchange Program (UGRAD).
To begin the seminar, Porter shared the key elements of outlining, such as clarifying a purpose, brainstorming on various aspects of the given topic, and adjusting the style and the tone of the essay according to the audience. Then, Phil and Hillary George explained to the participants the differences between the American and Armenian writing styles. The Armenian writing style stresses the storyline over the conclusion, resulting in a topic-focused piece, while in the United States, essays generally make an argument and have a structure organized to support that argument. They introduced participants to the three main parts of an essay: introduction, body, and conclusion. Participants learned about the importance of having a thesis in the introduction, and learned about transition sentences used to make a smooth shift from one part of the essay to another. The trainers also explained that a conclusion should not express any new ideas, but on the contrary, summarize the entire essay, and talked about so-called "attention getters," which are words and expressions that will attract the readers’ attention.
Nora Safaryan from Kapan Agro Economic University commented, “Now that I learned the proper structure and important elements in writing a solid essay, I am more confident to start writing my statements for the application. Thank you!” As a result, the participants improved their essay writing skills, which will help them write more competitive essays for scholarship contests and improve their general academic standings.
Hovik Khoetsyan (rear) answers
participants’ questions while Site
Trainer Edik Ehtibaryan (front)
types from the IATP access site
in Spitak, Armenia
Citizens Discuss Development of Cultural Life in Armenia Online
On October 4, twelve students, ECA alumni, and artists gathered online from the IATP access sites in Gyumri, Yeghegnadzor, Kapan, and Spitak, Armenia, to discuss a theater festival being held in Spitak from October 2 to 7, and citizen involvement in the cultural life of the country.
Hovik Khoetsyan, head of the Department of Culture and Education of the Spitak City Government, delivered a presentation about the festival dedicated to 15th anniversary of the Independence of the Republic of Armenia and funded by the Ministry of Cultural and Youth Affairs of the Republic of Armenia. The festival featured eight performances by professional actors and performers from the country’s major theaters, staged at the House of Culture in Spitak free of charge for the general public. He noted that the purpose of organizing the theater festival was to promote appreciation for theater and increase people’s involvement in cultural life in regions outside the capital city of Yerevan. Khoetsyan remarked, “This festival week revived the cultural life of Spitak. Young people were more than ever participating actively and attending the performances.”
To a question from Anna Minasyan (FLEX 01) about plans to organize similar festivals in other regions of the country, Khoetsyan replied, “If transportation costs are covered by the local or state government, theater performances can be held in any other city in Armenia. In fact, there are also plans to invite theater groups from Tbilisi, Georgia and organize larger festivals in cooperation with them.” By hosting this online discussion, IATP helped citizens across the country learn about theater and highlighted US government support for development of Armenian culture.
GEORGIA
Marika Jgenti (center) answers a
question, while Shota Gvaramadze
(front) moderates the online
discussion at the IATP access site
in Tbilisi, Georgia
IREX Representative Answers Questions about Educational Programs in Online Discussion
On October 16, more than 45 students and teachers received up-to-date information on current US Government-funded educational programs from Marika Jgenti, IREX Educational Programs Division assistant from six IATP access sites across Georgia. Jgenti answered questions about the Eurasian Undergraduate Exchange Program (UGRAD), the Edmund S. Muskie Graduate Fellowship Program (Muskie) and the Teaching Excellence and Achievement Program (TEA), which are currently administered by IREX.
TEA program applicants asked questions about the documentation necessary for proving a teacher’s relevant work experience, the necessity of passing the TOEFL examination, and living conditions and allowances for program participants in the United States. Students participating in the online discussion posed questions about the difference between one-year (non-degree) and two-year (degree) programs, and wanted to know the final number of successful applicants in each program this year. In answering a question about the importance of returning to the program participant’s home country at the end of the exchange period, Jgenti commented, “It’s important that every participant obeys the program rules, as well as U.S. law, which states that upon finishing the exchange period, every participant has to return to his/her country.” The online discussion was timely assistance to Georgian citizens currently applying for U.S.-funded educational programs administered by IREX, helping them to avoid misconceptions and clarify ambiguities.
Patrick Thoendel (right, front) instructs
one of his trainees in browsing online
materials
Peace Corps Volunteer Leads Seminar on Internet for English Study in Khashuri, Georgia
On October 23, Peace Corps volunteer Patrick Thoendel showed local students how to utilize the Internet to broaden their educational opportunities. He led a seminar entitled, “Using the Internet to Study English” for eight students from the Foreign Language Department of the Khashuri branch of Ilia Chavchavadze University at the IATP access site in Khashuri, Georgia.
The seminar, initiated by the English majors, was organized by IATP access site administrator Natia Gogaladze, who contacted Thoendel and planned the event. The aim of the training session was to provide resources and advice on how best to use the Internet to study English. Theondel gave participants a tour of useful online resources, such as Learn English Online, Dave’s ESL Cafe, English Daily, and How to Learn English Effectively. Thoendel also introduced seminar participants to the free online encyclopedia Wikipedia, edited by volunteers, which has become one of the most popular reference resources on the Internet. Participant Nato Somphishvili commented, “The seminar was important for all of us, since we study English at the university and any additional source of information is useful for our future professional development.”
MOLDOVA
Local Entrepreneurs to use IT in their
business practices
Entrepreneurs Learn to Work with Spreadsheets in Chisinau, Moldova
From October 16 to 19, nine tourism business entrepreneurs learned critical accounting software skills the IATP training laboratory in Chisinau, Moldova. The aim of the training was to equip the participants with the skills they need to streamline their processes by using IT, for instance, how to use spreadsheets to in the ticket booking process.
IATP Assistant Petru Burdian explained how to structure data with the help of spreadsheets and use computer tools to make calculations. The participants learned to process data with spreadsheet programs by entering and sorting data, used formulas in the spreadsheets to automate calculations, made charts on the basis of the calculations, and analyzed them. Burdian stressed that spreadsheets facilitate data analysis and enable better management, especially with regard to financial operations. Later, IATP Training Coordinator Valeriu Senic explained to participants how to search the Web for useful information, on topics such as financial modeling.
The participants are to use their newly-acquired skills and knowledge for accounting purposes and promoting Moldovan tourism through the Internet. By sponsoring this training, IATP contributed to the professional development of the local entrepreneurs and promoted IT use in their professional activity.
Peace Corps volunteer Breanne Svehla
demonstrates blog use to participant
Andrei Istrate
IATP Users Discover Blog Writing in Chisinau, Moldova
On October 20, the IATP Training Laboratory in Chisinau, Moldova, hosted a seminar on blog use led by Peace Corps volunteers Breanne Svehla and Craig Warheit for eight local residents. First, Breanne Svehla provided a succinct definition of blog (web-log), which is a website in which entries are made in journal style. She also explained to the participants how to use a blog as a tool for online communication: a blog author gets feedback from the readers through comments to the blog’s posts. Then Craig Warheit discussed some technical features of blog use and stressed its importance as a tool for filling gaps in information provided by the news media.
Participants learned that blogs can serve not only as a communication tool or online diary, but it also to provide commentaries and news on particular subjects, such as politics, economics, education, and culture. It can also be a part of social networks, which people use to share their opinions and experiences with each other and organize specialized communities. The participants registered their online dairies at www.blogger.com, a blog engine; they intend to use their blogs for personal communication and professional development.
TURKMENISTAN
Participant Arthur Akopyan works in his
forum at www.iatp.edu.tm/moodle
Student Develops Online Training Module after IATP Distance Learning Course
On October 20, Aleksandr Saraykin, a fourth-year student at International Turkmen-Turkish University, registered the twenty-fourth student to participate in an IATP Distance Learning (DL) course entitled “Journalism’s Kitchen,” hosted at www.iatp.edu.tm.moodle, in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan. Saraykin, who completed the pilot “Kitchen of Journalism” DL course in 2005 and author of his own website decided to try his hand as a DL instructor.
On September 26, he gathered 14 high school students at the IATP access sites in Mary, Turkmenabat and Ashgabat for a two-our online DL course presentation, where he introduced participants to the concept and goals of DL, its advantages over traditional, in-class study methods, and registration procedures. As a result, the “Kitchen of Journalism” DL course created by Dina Bayborodina was reactivated. Saraykin developed his own training module within the course entitled “Oh, where I have got to?” where he shares his own experiences in online course development. The module is divided into three parts: adjusting (defines a set of materials investigated by a student independently); educational (six thematic modules mastered in sequence according to the pre-set schedule) and final (developed based on the results of the training stream). Through the “Kitchen of Journalism” course, IATP users are learning about DL course development and journalism, contributing to the development of education and media in Turkmenistan.
The website “Ancient and Medieval Coins
of Turkmenistan” is hosted by IATP
at www.iatp.edu.tm/tmmoney
High School Students Create Website about Ancient Coins of Turkmenistan
On October 18, high school students Lyubov Shumilkina and Maksim Shuk posted a new informational website about Turkmen coins at after attending a Web design course at the IATP access site in Turkmenabat, Turkmenistan. Lyubov and Maksim are seniors planning to graduate from High School #15 in May. Students in high schools all over Turkmenistan take Turkmen history classes as a standard part of the curriculum, and the subject is included in the exams required for graduation. After spending hours in the library searching for books on the history of Turkmenistan to prepare for their exams, they decided to create a website to facilitate their fellow students’ learning process.
After a week-long Web design course, Shumilkina and Shuk learned how to optimize images and build a website with a user-friendly layout. Prior to the course, they completed a series of IATP-sponsored training courses on the basics of computer and Internet use. The new website offers the reader a series of articles about the development of monetary circulation in Turkmenistan, which has a thousand-year old history, and provides information about Turkmen coins, from antiquity up to the October Revolution of 1917. Through free-of-charge IATP courses, citizens of Turkmenistan have the opportunity to access information from the rest of the world, and to contribute to knowledge of the outside world about Turkmenistan. The IATP server in Turkmenistan now hosts 177 websites, representing more than two thirds of the Web content in the country.