Since 2004, the TechBridgeWorld initiative has established direct partnerships between Carnegie Mellon University and developing communities around the world to innovate computing technology relevant to and accessible to these communities. The overall goal of TechBridgeWorld is to increase the diversity of the consumers, and eventually the creators, of computing technology so that the technology we create is accessible and relevant to all. Conversations with many developing communities revealed that a majority of our partners are seeking increased access to education and healthcare. Thus, TechBridgeWorld has pioneered several programs focused on computing technology relevant to health and education.

Due to the topic of this symposium, in this session Dr. Dias will primarily focus on the TechBridgeWorld education program. This education program has two primary thrusts: providing educational opportunities for Carnegie Mellon University students to learn more about developing communities and the relevant challenges in technology, and creating technology aids for education relevant to and accessible by developing communities. We have created and currently teach courses such as "Technology Consulting in the Community" and "Technology for Developing Communities" under the first thrust. We have also begun to explore the second thrust in two ways: creating technology aids to allow improved access to basic literacy in developing communities, and creating computing technology related courseware relevant to and accessible by developing communities.Dr. Dias will discuss activities and lessons learned in these endeavors.