The Clubhouse is a state of the art multimedia technology centre for underserved young people (8-18 year olds) in the heart of the Liberties. The aim of the Clubhouse is to help close the digital divide for a community that may not have the same kind of access to technology available elsewhere. The philosophy behind the Clubhouse however is one that is relevant for children of all ages and backgrounds, that of participatory, experiential and hands-on learning.
Global Computer Clubhouse Network
The model is born of the renowned Massachusetts Institute Technology (MIT) and it is run by the Boston Museum of Science. Seed money from the Intel Foundation (USA) has helped the Computer Clubhouse model develop into a global network with a presence in more than 30 countries. The shared best practice of the network combines on the ground support in each local country by a host organization. SWICN provide this support along with the CDYSB (City of Dublin Youth Services Board) who were involved in the initial set-up of the Computer Clubhouse hosted by SWICN.
How We Work?
The Clubhouse relies on an enthusiastic team of volunteers, called Mentors, who all have a relevant background in multimedia. This team which includes two Youth Workers seconded for a number of hours per week, in conjunction with the two full time Clubhouse Coordinators help bring technology to life. Mentors work with the young people on continuous and short-term projects in areas like film-making, website building, animation, game design and music production.
What Members Do
The Clubhouse members use industry standard software such as the Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Premiere, InDesign, Illustrator, Dreamweaver), Final Cut Pro, Google Sketchup, Garage Band, 3D Game Maker and Mission Maker. The Mentors offer one-to-one guidance to the members which is invaluable in building their confidence. The programmes are all based around an informal social constructivist approach which allows members the freedom to experiment and explore their own creativity, while availing of the support, experience and encouragement of Mentors.
21st Century Skills
The Clubhouse is one of the leaders of this newly emerging sector for non formal multimedia learning centres. It demonstrates how technology can be used as a tool to enable young people in educationally disadvantaged areas develop personally as well as creatively. Merging the best of 'what's out there' in education with the broad range of skills and expertise of the Mentors these young people have a unique opportunity to become confident and successful young adults equipped with the technological skills needed for the 21st century.
