PART 2

STEP-BY-STEP GUIDEBOOK

THE BETTER CONNECTIONS PROGRAM

Contents:1. Implementing the Better Connections Program 4

2. The four pillars of success 4

Awareness • Advertising and encouraging the uptake of learning 4

Access • Implementing your computer room 5 • Reducing the cost of investment 6 • Internet connection 6

Skills • Technology-enhanced learning programs to improve knowledge 8

Support • Empowering Digital Champions 11 • Continued maintenance and support 11 • Ensure that you have dedicated operations support 11 • Enforce computer room rules 11

3. Program Materials • Computer Room Implementation Checklist 13 • Budgeting guidelines 18 • Toolkit Content Appendix 19

Published by Ministry of Information and Communications Technology (ictQATAR), May 2014

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Implementing the Better Connections ProgramHaving undertaken the pilot to the Better Connections Program with two large, local employers, we were able to determine factors that will ensure easy implementation of your ICT room and engagement from your labor force.

Our trial helped us to formulate a plan of action, something that could be easily followed so that any disruptions to your busy schedule could be kept to a minimum while offering guidance towards additional help and support.

This part of the pack is your instructional guide. It provides you with the knowledge of what is needed, links to useful (and sometimes free) tools so that you can implement your ICT room, and advice to ensure the sustainability of your ICT room. We are here to help you and your employees make the most of their enhanced access to ICT and ICT-based skills training.

The four pillars of successAt ictQATAR we strive to provide all members of society with all the necessary elements and support they need in order to become digitally included. In order to enjoy successful engagement we work hard to apply a structured strategy that aids the ease of implementation and ensures sustainability. The Better Connections Program is underpinned by four important strategic pillars which are awareness, access, skills and support. Following these will provide your transient labor force with the information and equipment they need to enjoy ICT access.

AwarenessAdvertising and encouraging the uptake of learningEducating your transient labor force about the benefits of using ICT and encouraging them to undertake ICT training plays a vital role to ensure that the Better Connections Program is a success. Your transient workforce will need to understand the direct benefits of using ICT as this will help motivate them to fully utilize the room and make the most of the available training. To help you raise awareness of these benefits we have created a poster which is included within the Program Materials section. This can be placed in any area that is used by your employees and gives some great examples of what they will be able to achieve with the aid of ICT access.

This poster demonstrates key benefits that transient workers will now be able to enjoy such as learning new skills, the ability to connect to Government e-Services, financial literacy and staying in touch with family and friends that they have left behind. We also recommend that you present this information to your staff, so that you can explain what you are doing, the purpose of the access and how it benefits them as individuals and a team.

AccessAwareness Skills Support

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AccessImplementing your computer room Your Computer Room Implementation Checklist, which is provided within the Program Materials section of this pack will help you to create your own ICT access room within your staff accommodation. We take you through the process of activation, from sourcing computers and equipment to other important elements that you will need to consider such as lighting, electricity and ventilation.

Your computer room checklist (in brief)

Determining your budget.

Providing suitable power supply for your equipment.

Ensuring that there is proper ventilation to accommodate the number of occupants and equipment.

Evaluating and sourcing suitable furniture and lighting.

Planning wiring and cable management for your ICT equipment.

Establishing your hardware and software requirements.

Setting up your network for shared Internet connection.

Finding suitable Internet connectivity.

Developing continued maintenance and support.

Making the most of ICT-based learning.

Setting up your computer room – ensuring suitable space and civil defense requirements are addressed.

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Reducing the cost of investment The equipment needed to implement a computer room may appear to be a big investment, however, there is help available which can assist in reducing any initial installation costs.

Recycled computers

Whether you choose to use laptops or desktop computers you can obtain used computers through charitable donations from larger organizations.

During the implementation of our pilot program we were grateful to receive help from Qatar Scientific Club who have initiated the ‘Green Computer’ program. The club refurbishes recycled computers that have been donated by large organizations who no longer have use for this equipment.

The pilot program also received help from volunteers from Sheikh Thani bin Abdullah Foundation for Humanitarian Services (RAF Foundation) who supported this green initiative program by gathering used PCs and giving their time to help in the refurbishment scheme.

Software donation

Microsoft can only donate Operating Systems to non-profit/NGO’s and not directly to an employer of transient labor. Therefore, you must gain partnership with a local charity in order to apply for the grant. Please be aware that this method can be quite time-consuming, so we suggest that you submit your application early to ensure your software is delivered in time.

If you receive refurbished or donated computers that do not have licensed software installed, you can apply for this through Microsoft’s website page http://microsoft.cybergrants.com/software

Free software

There are a number of different computer software options available from the Internet, which can be downloaded on to your computers at no cost at all. Qatar National Facilities Services, the company that took part in our pilot program chose to use the Linux-based operating system, Linux Lite.

This system is simple to use, intuitive and ideal for reviving older laptops or desktop computers.

To find out more information, just visit https://www.linuxliteos.com

Internet Connection The computers within your ICT room will need to be connected to the Internet which means that you will need to survey and access your current telecommunications infrastructure and check with the service provider about the type of Internet connection that would be suitable for you.

There are currently two service providers in Qatar – Ooredoo and Vodafone – and two different types of technologies that will provide you with suitable connectivity: fixed Fibre Optic Broadband and wireless 4G/LTE solution.

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4G/LTE technology

4G is a wireless technology term meaning Fourth Generation, the next generation of wireless technology, while LTE stands for Long Term Evolution. LTE technology has been developed to cope with the demand for increasing mobile data speeds and the wide variety of content that can be accessed over mobile networks. This technology offers download speeds up to 150 Mbps, but in a real-life scenario it is expected that single 4G connection speed will vary between 15-20 Mbps.

There are 4G devices currently available on the market (MiFi router) that will allow for shared connection with up to 10 simultaneous devices.

At the time of writing, 4G is only offered by Ooredoo as Vodafone are in the testing stage of their 4G/LTE technology.

To find out whether 4G coverage is available in your area and that the devices you will be using are supported by 4G, you can take a look at Ooredoo’s website: http://www.ooredoo.qa/en/4G-coverage.

Fibre Optic Broadband

Fibre optical cables are made of hair-thin glass fibres that are used to transmit information across a broadband network at ultra fast Internet speeds of up to 100Mbps.

It is a reliable and stable connection that is resilient to weather conditions and allows multiple users to do more things at the same time. It means that there are fewer dropouts and less worry about your broadband slowing down and interrupting your ICT-based training.

To discover whether fibre-optic broadband is available in your area, you can check the Internet providers’ websites:

Ooredoohttp://www.ooredoo.qa/en/DP_FTTX_GETTING_CONNECTED_2

Vodafonehttp://www.vodafone.qa/en/internet/broadband-at-home/coverage

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SkillsTechnology-enhanced learning programs to improve knowledge Without the right training and knowledge development, your computer room will only be utilized by those members of staff who already have previous knowledge of using ICT technology. We understand that within your group of transient workers there will be differences between their educational backgrounds, their native languages and their ability to read and process information. To ensure you maximize the potential of your computer room, and be inclusive to all transient workers, ictQATAR’s adoption team are making available appropriate content and training programs that:

• Take account of literacy levels and needs of each target group;• take account of cultural issues;• create a specific context for the target group; and• are available in Arabic, English and other languages if required for specific target groups.

In research conducted with the target group, migrant labor workers were asked about the subjects they would be interested in learning more about if free training were offered at a convenient place.

The most popular training subjects 2 were:

As part of our commitment to ensure that employers and transient workers can contribute to Qatar’s ICT growth, a range of Digital Inclusion Toolkits are available online. The Toolkits include existing content from partner organizations and newly developed content that has been contextualized and localized for Qatar.

Your Digital Champions and transient workers will have access to the following content and learning resources:

Using email

53% 48%

Training in Internet access and use

14%

Cyber safety (keeping safe online) and privacy controls

13%

Online financial transactions

Group 1 – Basic ICT and Internet Skills

ictQATAR basic ICT and Internet skills curriculum

ictQATAR has developed its own localized curriculum that consists of ten modules, available in English and Arabic. These modules take your transient workers from the basics of using ICT and Internet through to online learning and professional development.

2 Data sourced from SESRI (Social & Economic Survey Research Institute) research report for ictQATAR 2012

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Financial Literacy

Our research also revealed that transient workers need basic financial literacy training to help them to carry out financial planning and money transactions while they are living abroad.

Although many of the transient workers do not have bank accounts, there are a number of employers who pay their salaries onto their debit cards and they are then able to use ‘mobile wallet’ methods to transfer money home and withdraw cash. Money transfer is very important to these workers, many of whom are supporting their families at home. Mobile wallets for their phones have been developed to make this easier for them.

The content developed covers two topics, both available in Arabic, Bengali, English, Hindi and Nepali:• Virtual simulator covering the basics of using money transfer services via a mobile phone and mobile wallet.• Virtual ATM simulator.

A complete list of the Toolkit content is available in the Toolkit Content Appendix which can be found within the Program Materials section of this pack.

Microsoft Digital Literacy Curriculum You will also have access to the Microsoft Digital Literacy Curriculum (MDLC), which has been made available to our target groups in partnership with Microsoft Qatar. This training program comprises three levels (Basic, Standard and Advanced) available in different languages including English, Arabic, and Hindi.

Intel Easy Steps Program – basic ICT and Internet skills

Intel Easy Steps is an international program for the teaching and learning of digital literacy. The course teaches basic digital literacy skills in a structured format, and there are a series of Intel Easy Steps Activity Cards, which can either be used to supplement the basic course or used alone for self-paced instruction.

Group 2 – Be smart and learn

ictQATAR’s Interactive Health & Safety tool

Employers have a responsibility to ensure that all their workers are fully aware of the potential risks and hazards at their place of work and in their living accommodation – by providing health and safety training and tips we can help prevent accidents and injury. This training tool focuses on health and safety in the labor camp and this will also heighten their awareness of health and safety in their workplace.

The health and safety content developed by ictQATAR is not intended to replace that of the employer, but to support and complement it. The focus here is to promote healthy and safe lifestyles. It is available in Arabic, Bengali, English, Hindi and Nepali.

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Educating your employees about cyber security

It is important that you introduce cyber security and the risks involved to your employees as they may have little or no experience of using ICT tools and knowledge of the associated cyber security risks. The Internet will become part of their daily lives and provides a way for your transient workers to socialize, shop, and conduct online transactions, which means they will be sharing more personal and financial information. In doing so they will potentially expose themselves to a number of online risks which they need to be aware of and be able to manage.

To help, we have included a Cyber-Security Poster within the Program Materials section of this booklet, and this can be displayed on the wall of your computer room to help raise awareness while providing useful tips to staying cyber safe.

Group 3 – Additional support tools

Skills assessment tools and reviewing training needs

The ICT skills of your transient labor force may vary, which is why we recommend conducting an assessment of their knowledge and skills once your designated computer room or ICT area has been set-up. Once training has begun you will also be able to determine their needs and create a customized learning program that will bring benefits to them and to your organization.

There are a number of tools available which will help you assess your employees’ ICT proficiency and their language literacy, and we have provided some more information on where you can access these within the Toolkit Content Appendix.

We recommend that the training needs of your employees are reviewed regularly – preferably every six months. This can be conducted through a simple questionnaire distributed amongst users of the facility, or by utilizing the experience of your Digital Champions: they have been providing support to their peers on a daily basis, so will be able to articulate their needs.

We strongly recommend that you should create a reference manual of all the technology-enhanced learning recommended to your employees, so that they can find information to help them get the most from their training. To help you with this you can refer to the Toolkit Content Appendix which gives you a full list of the courses available to them – you can either make a copy of this and use it as your table of contents, or refer to this and add to the reference manual as and when your employees undertake the training.

Accessibility tools

To help you increase your transient workers’ basic knowledge there are a number of different tools available to help them with basic ICT tasks. These include:

• Screen reader software.• Factsheets. • Case Studies. • Videos. • Alternative keyboards to enable them to type in their own languages. • Social media fact sheets.

A complete list of the Toolkit content is available in the Toolkit Content Appendix which can be found within the Program Materials section.

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SupportEmpower your Digital Champions Our pilot project revealed that some of the transient workers at the labor accommodation had a higher competency of ICT skills than others. Utilizing their skills and enthusiasm will enable you to deliver a cost-effective training program that not only empowers your chosen Digital Champions, but also puts your other staff at ease.

Your Digital Champions are essential to the continuity of your computer room for training and recreational use, as these workers have the knowledge to ensure that all transient workers are aware and making the most use of the access available to them. They also have the ability to deliver training sessions in workers’ languages and get to know each individual’s specific needs.

Enforce computer room rules You will want to make sure that everyone is able to fully enjoy the use of your computer room. In order to make this happen and limit damage and disruptions we advise you to display the ‘Computer Room Health & Safety Rules’ Poster which can be found within the Program Materials section of this Better Connections Program pack.

This contains practical help and guidance; tips to ensure that equipment does not get damaged and that thehealth and safety of other users is being taken into consideration.

Ensure that you have dedicated operations support You will need to have a dedicated custodian in place to take care of the daily operations and maintenance of your computer room. To keep costs to a minimum you could select your Digital Champions to divide this responsibility between them.

Continued maintenance and support

Two factors often overlooked in the running of a computer room, are continued maintenance and support. We suggest utilizing the experience of your IT department as they will be able to help you put a strategy in place, while your Digital Champions can work together with them to ensure the continued smooth running of your computer room.

On page 13 (Computer Room Installation Checklist) there is a Maintenance and Support section which gives you specific key responsibilities to assign to your Digital Champions.

• Digital Champions can lead by example. • They are able to speak in native languages and English, enabling them to liaise between staff and employers.

• Through their interaction with your transient labor force they can contribute insight and ideas for new programs.• They have the ability to engage with their audience.

The benefits of using the ‘Train the Digital Champions’ model

• Opening and closing of the computer room. • Making sure all equipment is switched on/off.• Securing that the room is clean and ready for use. • Assisting trainers with any support. • Providing basic technical support.

• Keeping track of a daily schedule – room usage and bookings. • Assisting with computer usage – downloading, print outs, etc.

Recommended duties of your custodian(s) includes:

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Program Materials

Everything you need to get started This part of the Step-By-Step Guidebook contains helpful guidance in the form of an implementation checklist, practical posters, etc., to use within your computer room and the estimated costs of implementing your computer room within your transient labor accommodation.

Within here you will find:

Budgeting Guidelines Computer Room Usage Rules poster

Employee awareness poster (to be placed in common areas in your labor accommodation)

Your Computer Room Implementation Checklist

Cyber Security Poster (to be placed within the

computer room)

Toolkit Content Appendix – featuring a comprehensive list of all the ICT-

based learning that is available to you

Useful links and contacts

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Computer Room Installation Checklist

Budget status

You will need to secure a budget for purchasing any equipment and furniture that you willl need. The budget should be based on your hardware, software, networking, furniture and supplies. Please refer to the appendix, page 18 for budget calculation/cost estimation. Identify possible sources of the hardware/software/furniture and estimate cost implication. Please refer to appendix, page 18 on donation/refurbishment of computers.

Monthly connectivity charges for Internet and an amount for maintenance should be made available.

Setting up the Room status

Look for a room within a commonly used area of your camp where all people have easy access to the facility – one that does not favour a certain section of the camp.Ensure that your allocated room is a suitable size for the amount of users and equipment. On average, a ratio of 1:10 could be applied. For example, 1 computer for 10 people. So if your camp has 100 staff living here, a room with 10 computers should be adequate.

We recommend that each computer is reserved an area of at least 4 sqm.

Consider your seating configuration within the room, and take into account the size and estimated number of computers. Place the computer tables or workstation in an open square, U-shape or semi-circle as close to walls as possible. This design makes instruction, monitoring and assistance more efficient than computers in long rows.

The floor should be cemented or tiled for cleanliness – computer labs should be dust free.

Ensure that civil defense requirements are addressed. Fire extinguishers and fire blankets should be available.

Easy exit routes should be shown in case of an emergency evacuation.

Suitable power supply status

The amount of electricity that your computer room requires needs to be calculated. It is more than likely that the number of sockets in the existing room is not sufficient to cater for all the estimated devices. A minimum of two (2) electrical outlets per workstation (computer and monitor) should be provided.Verify that the electrical supply is adequate for the anticipated load. To calculate the total amount of electricity that your computer equipment will use look at the small sticker on the back or bottom of each piece of equipment and record the voltage (volts) and amperes (amps) that each device uses. Multiply these two numbers together to calculate the amount of watts of power each device consumes. For example, a typical laptop power supply uses 20 volts and 4.55 amps of electricity to operate and therefore it takes 91 watts of power (20 volts x 4.55 amps = 91 watts) to operate the laptop. Add up the number of watts consumed by each piece of equipment to determine the total watts for all the equipment that will be in the room.Consult with a qualified electrician the estimated wattage and verify the available load in your computer room. Add additional power sockets if needed – always liaise with the camp manager or camp owner when adding any additional power sockets. It needs to be ensured that the permissible Kahramaa electricity load for the whole camp can withstand your requirements. For camps that are not connected to the national electricity grid and working on fuel power generators, fluctuation in electrical power can occur. In these cases, investing in an UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) battery device will help protect your devices from any damage. The wattage you have calculated and the time required for the units to run when there is a disruption of power will give you the battery power requirements for procuring the correct UPS.

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For safety, avoid running long extension cords across the floor in the workspace.

Each computer and monitor must have its own plug.

Plugs need to be installed on the wall and below desktops.

Only a qualified electrician should carry out any installation and repairs.

Room Ventilation status

Ensure that your allocated room has sufficient ventilation for the amount of people using and equipment placed.Allow sufficient ventilation around the PC box and monitors. If your PC box is within a confined space or enclosed area, be sure that the computer fan has a source of cool air with a minimum of 10cm (4”) clearance surrounding the intakes. You will also need to keep the ventilation slots in the top of the monitors clear to prevent overheating.Proper air ventilation systems (air conditioning units) must be placed. Air temperature should be in the range between 20 - 23ºC.

Furniture & Lighting status

Evaluate furniture needs for the room based on the estimated number of computers. Consider the space requirements for computer desks, tables, chairs, white board, storage cupboards, etc. Recommended dimensions for furniture: each computer must be placed at least 90cm from each other and 70cm above the floor and have room for a monitor, keyboard and mouse.

Desks must be strong enough to support computers, monitors and printers.

For general room lighting, a level of 50-60 foot-candles should be provided at all stations within the room. 2” x 2” light fixtures are recommended for small or medium size rooms as they make it easier to get even light levels in the room.If a projection screen is being equipped, a dimmable light switch could be placed to control the light levels.

If you have big windows, be sure to install blinds/curtains.

Wiring & Cable Management status

The wiring for all electrical and networking services should be carefully planned so that outlets are placed appropriately for the arrangement of the room.

All cables should be neatly dressed and covered in moldings or other cable management devices.

All cables and outlets should be clearly labelled. Minimizing cable clutter can reduce unintentional cable disconnections and improper connections.

Avoid accidents by installing cable trays underneath the desks.

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Hardware & Software Requirement status

Based on your estimated number of workstations, arrangements need to be made to source the computers. For a computer room, desktop computers are preferred. They are the most commonly used and there are many named brands available in the market. They have a common set of easily available parts and they are usually less expensive than full-featured laptop computers.Desktop systems are generally easier to maintain and repair since the CPU (Central Processing Unit) is relatively easy to open and many of the different components, such as power supplies, hard disk drives, and memory chips can be easily replaced.In addition to computers, it is often necessary to include other hardware to complete your computer room. You may require a few printers, projectors, webcams, etc. Understand the needs of the users to decide on procuring these peripheral choices. Please refer to the appendix section, page 18 for the hardware specification which was used in our pilot Better Connections Program. Install the computers and accessories. Position the equipment and furniture so that the entire lab is visible. Check your setup for user comfort, ease of instruction and monitoring.Ensure that electrical equipment is kept away from heat sources, open windows, and moveable objects.Below are some basic software requirements for your computers:• Operating System (OS) Software: two major types of OS software are available,

Microsoft Windows and Linux.• Basic everyday applications: Firefox/Internet Explorer, Skype, Google Earth, Acrobat Reader, Scribus (desktop publishing) and Open Office. • Players & Plug-ins: Windows Media Player, Real Player, QuickTime and Flash.• Utilities: Anti-virus software, i.e. AVG Anti-Virus, Internet screening softwareDownload software on computers and make sure that access rights are restricted to the administrators/operators of the room.If you receive refurbished or donated computers that do not have licensed software installed, you can apply for software through Microsoft’s website page http://microsoft.cybergrants.com/software

Internet Connectivity status

Depending on the number of users and available options, the type of connection needs to be determined.

For limited users (less than 10 users), 2Mbps ADSL connection would be adequate and for 10 – 20 users, 4Mbps ADSL connectivity. Some areas also serve Optical Fibre connectivity which offer higher bandwidth for a reasonable price.3G & 4G routers are also available with Internet service providers which could also be a cheaper option with higher bandwidth.The more computers (and people) on your network the slower your Internet will be, especially if people are watching videos or downloading files.Currently, there are two Internet service providers (ISP) in Qatar: Ooredoo and Vodafone. Seek information from their customer service centers about their connectivity provision and offers. Confirm with your ISP on the availability of Internet in your area: • Enquire whether Optical Fibre connectivity is available in your area. If so, it would be a cheaper

option for increased bandwidth (and faster speeds). • If there is no fixed line in your camp area, you may have to rely on 3G/4G routers for connectivity.

Finalize the type of connection and if possible, have it reviewed by an IT professional.

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Formally apply for the Internet connectivity. Please note the activation may take up to 7 - 10 days. Liaise with the ISP on the timelines. Keep in mind that your connectivity should be activated after the final set up of the room so that you can avoid any unused connectivity charges. Note: If none of the service providers are able to satisfactorily address your requirements or issues, please dial 103 or email consumervoice@ict.gov.qa

Setting up the network status

It is recommended that you network your computers as it will: • Make it possible for users to share a single Internet connection among the computers. • Act as a physical barrier to intruders from the Internet. Firewalls can be configured on the router

to limit access to certain sites as well as block outside traffic.• Increase network functionality by integrating services like IP voice or video capability.There are two basic types of networking: • A cabled network, often called an Ethernet network, which involves connecting each computer

to a central computer, or a network device via a special dedicated network cable that is installed in or on the wall, or, in or along the floor of the room.

• A wireless or Wi-Fi network involves the use of a wireless or Wi-Fi ‘radio’ that sends and receives signals to computers that are equipped with a wireless or Wi-Fi adapter.

The preference to have a wired or wireless network depends on the ease of physically connecting the network devices. If the devices are desktop computers, a wired network is normally preferred. In addition to the hardware and infrastructure needed to establish the network, you will also need to use software to use and manage access to the network. The simplest networks do not need any additional software; in most cases, the computer’s operating system software (Microsoft XP, Windows Vista, or Windows 7) can be configured to connect each computer to basic shared devices. Open-source Linux OS software for networking can be installed for free.Setting up and managing a small network requires some skill and knowledge. It is advised to seek support of an IT networking professional to network your computers.A separate account with local admin rights must be created to limit a non-admin user’s ability to alter local machine settings. Make sure that your local admin account password is not shared with anyone unless they have been officially delegated to manage this account.

Maintenance & support status

Identify Digital Champions: those workers that are confident users of computers and can help take responsibility for maintenance of the room.We recommend that you select Champions that speak different languages, so they can support peers who are not able to communicate well in English or Arabic. Assign key responsibilities for your Champions: • Periodic inspection of all devices and replacement of damaged parts. • Hard drive ‘cleaning’ to remove personal data from system. • Back up data. • Maintenance of records – log-in and usage details.• Make arrangements for regular cleaning of the lab.• Assist with computer usage – downloading, print outs etc.• Educate users on the safe usage of devices. • Ensure that no smoking, food, or drink are permitted in computer labs, as they can damage

the equipment and attract insects or rodents.Stock spare parts and supplies like keyboards, mice, patch cables, headsets, paper, cartridges, CDs, etc.

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Develop a maintenance schedule to ensure that regular inspections are carried out. Your Digital Champions can take turns in carrying out these tasks. Develop a usage policy to avoid misuse of the service. For instance, each person is allotted only 45 minutes of continuous usage, etc. Posting a set of rules for the appropriate use of the computer room helps users to know what their responsibility is in helping to take care of the computer room.A poster on ‘Computer Room Usage Rules’ is provided within this pack. This could be placed in your computer room.

ICT Skills Development status

Your champions will play an important role in supporting skills development of their peers. Make sure they are aware of the Toolkit content available for users of the room. Create a reference manual, so that any employee can find information to help them get familiar with the devices. Content is included in this pack. Make sure it is uploaded on the computers in your computer room, so users can access it locally, regardless of the connectivity speed.The eLearning content could be taken up by your Champions so that they can act as mentors and conduct training sessions for their peers.

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Budgeting guidelines

Having an understanding of the costs of implementing a computer room allows you to determine whether this is a feasible inclusion to your staff accommodation.

Below is an example of the cost of a 50 sq. m room, which gives staff access to 10 computers. Please be aware that this is simply an estimate and you may be able to source or receive donated or recycled equipment and software to bring costs down. The budgeting guidelines are based on the implementation of our pilot Better Connections Program. One-off costs 1 Civil and electrical work in the room

(painting, electrical installation, 12 double electrical sockets, replacing existing pvc conduits, supply and installation of UPS)

15,000 QAR(You could also do this yourself)

2 Room furniture 11 computer desks, 11 chairs, 1 storage cupboard, 1 printer/scanner table, 1 message board

10,000 QAR(You could also reuse your own furniture)

3 10 x computer (employee use)1 x computer (administration use/server)

15,000 QAR(Refurbished computers can be utilized)

4 Operating System and Software 0 QARUtilize free software

5 Network router 500 QAR6 Medium capacity printer 300 QAR7 A4 Scanner 200 QAR

Total 41 000 QAR

Recurring costs 1 Internet connectivity 300 QAR

(depends on the connectivity type)2 Maintenance expenses 200 QAR

(accidental expenses)

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Toolkit Content Appendix Toolkit content and training programs available for use by employers, ICT Champions, trainers and other target groups for example transient workers

Group 1 – basic ICT and Internet skills

This group contains the following items of content:• ictQATAR’s Basic ICT and Internet skills curriculum - ten modules• Microsoft Digital Literacy Curriculum: Basic ICT and Internet skills - three levels• Intel Easy Steps Program: Basic ICT and Internet skills - fourteen modules

1. ictQATAR’s localized ten module curriculum, comprises the following topics:

Content format:These modules are available online http://ictqatar.qa/en/ditoolkit/ditoolkit-for-migrant-workersand offline on the attached USB in the following formats:• Downloadable print documents in PDF and Word format with a Creative Commons License• Ten interactive learning objects, one to accompany each module• Mobile apps containing all the interactive learning objects• Trainers guide to support the educational material• Available in one web portal location

Available languages:• English and Arabic

Module oneKnow your PC

Module fiveMobile Devices and Apps

Module nineGetting Connected

to the Internet

Module threeAccessing News Online

Module sevenAccessing Schools and

Government Services Online

Module twoDiscovering the Internet

(to develop personal interests)

Module sixConnecting with Family and

Friends II (Twitter and Facebook)

Module tenOnline Learning for Personal

and Professional Development

Module fourConnecting with Family and

Friends I (using Skype and email)

Module eightFile Management

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2. Microsoft Digital Literacy Curriculum comprises the following levels and topics:

Basic level:• Welcome to the world of computers• Using the mouse and keyboard

Standard level:• Computer basics• The Internet and the World Wide Web• Productivity programs• Computer security and privacy• Digital lifestyles• Digital literacy test and certificate

Advanced level• Creating an Internet email account• Writing a great resume with Microsoft Word• Finding and evaluating resources on the Web• Using social networking to connect with the world

Content format:These modules are available online on the Microsoft website [http://www.microsoft.com/about/corporatecitizenship/citizenship/giving/programs/up/digitalliteracy/default.mspx] and offline on the attached USB in the following formats:• Basic level - 1-2 hour course• Standard level - 10-15 hour course• Advanced level - 7-10 hour course• Downloadable help guides• Trainer’s guide in PDF format

Available languages:• Various languages available

3. Intel Easy Steps Program comprises the following parts and topics:

Part one• Understanding computers and operating systems• Understanding the Internet and the World Wide Web• Email• Instant messaging• Understanding programs like word-processing, spreadsheets• Understanding multimedia

Part two• Participants are encouraged to use the computer for business related activities covering entrepreneurship, managing money, marketing and similar activities.

Part three comprises the following topic:• Developing a product showcase.

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Content format:These modules are available online http://ictqatar.qa/en/ditoolkit/ditoolkit-for-migrant-workers and offline on the attached USB in the following formats:• Comprehensive trainer’s guide with examples to accompany the program• Delivery approach includes activities, skills checks and self-tests. Learners are encouraged to relate what they learn to their own lives.• Activities are downloadable.• Each module begins with checking a learner’s existing skills and knowledge. • Modules work through a basic understanding of computers, understanding the Internet and communication online, before moving on to the application or productivity programs.• Further information is available from the Intel website, http://www.intel.com/content/www/us/en/education/intel-easy-steps.html

Available languages:• Available in English, Arabic and Hindi. The Arabic version has been localized for Qatar in partnership with Intel.

Group 2 – Be smart and learn

This group contains the following items of content:• Be smart, be safe• Virtual ATM simulator• Virtual mobile wallet simulator

1. ictQATAR’s “Be Smart, Be Safe” interactive Introduction to health and safety tool

2. Virtual ATM simulator

3. Virtual mobile wallet simulator

Content format:These modules are available online http://ictqatar.qa/en/ditoolkit/ditoolkit-for-migrant-workers and offline on the attached USB in the following formats:• Simulators will be available as online self-study learning and form a training tool for practice purposes• Mobile apps

Available languages:• Available in Arabic, Bengali, English, Hindi and Nepali with voiceovers in Arabic and Hindi

Introduction to Qatar – with simple guidelines and do’s and don’ts for

workers who are new to Qatar

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Introduction to health and safety

Fire safety

Working safely at height

Manual handling

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Group 3 – additional support tools

This group contains the following items of content:• Skills assessment tools.• Accessibility tools.• NHRC (National Human Rights Committee) Worker’s Rights Handbook• Worker’s Rights video

1. Skills assessment tools:a) Microsoft Digital Literacy Curriculum includes basic skills level assessment tests.b) Intel Easy Steps Program begins each module with checking participants’ existing skills and knowledge and each module pauses for self-checks.

Content format:These modules are available online http://ictqatar.qa/en/ditoolkit/ditoolkit-for-migrant-workers and offline on the attached USB in the following formats:• Available on and offline

Available languages:• Available in English and Arabic

2. Accessibility tools

3. NHRC Worker’s Rights Handbook and videoThe booklet has been designed especially for transient workers to be a guide in understanding their rights and duties during work tenure in Qatar. At the National Human Rights Committee, they aim to spread awareness about human rights in a society characterized by the presence of a huge number of foreign workers in Qatar. They are sure that the success of combined efforts will result in improving all working conditions related to transient workers. The Handbook is available in a variety of languages. The accompanying video explains some of the content of the Handbook more simply. The video is available in English, Arabic and Hindi.

Content format:These modules are available online http://ictqatar.qa/en/ditoolkit/ditoolkit-for-migrant-workers and offline on the attached USB in the following formats:• Available via ictQATAR’s toolkit for people with special needs • Available via Mada’s (Qatar Assistive Technology Center) AT portal (http://madaportal.org Targeting users with visual, physical, hearing, communication impairment and learning disabilities• Downloadable resources in pdf format

Available languages:• Available in English and Arabic

Screen reader software

VideosFactsheets on a range of subjects

Alternative keyboards

Case studies Factsheets on using social media

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Useful contacts for further help and advice

Better Connections Program contacts:• If you have any questions about The Better Connections Program, please contact us at: digitalinclusion@ict.gov.qa• Electronic version of this document and additional program materials including posters and learning resources are available at: http://ictqatar.qa/en/ditoolkit/ditoolkit-for-migrant-workers

Software:• You can also find further information about software donations at: http://www.microsoft.com/about/ corporatecitizenship/en-us/nonprofits/software-donations/• Questions related to the Microsoft Digital Literacy Curriculum or software donations can be addressed at: info-qtr@microsoft.com

Internet Service Providers:• Ooredoo: http://www.ooredoo.qa/en/DP_FTTX_GETTING_CONNECTED_2• Vodafone: http://www.vodafone.qa/en/internet/broadband-at-home/coverage

Assistive Technology• For more information about assistive technology, please visit Mada (Qatar Assistive Technology Center) portal at: http://madaportal.org/

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www.ictqatar.qa