Communication Systems

Discussion Stream Notes

The Communications Group did not approach communications as a goal in itself. It was discussed as a supporting component of other activities, such as commerce, education, political involvement, and other activities. Yet, communications still need to be developed in a "sustainable" manner – low power, off the grid, recyclable, economical, and easy-to-use. The group developed three projects: a low cost mass distribution of "re-purposed" toys, satellite-based infrastructure (a web of small info devices that can be used locally and nationally), and a telecommunications training center, training not only in communications but how to use communications in other areas. The projects are highly interrelated.

1. 'Re-purposed' Toys

In terms of gadgets, it's always children that adopt them first. Usually, they're followed sometime later by the adults. Since adaptations of technology can offer tremendous benefits to displaced societies, creating a device that appeals to children was the first project discussed by the Communications Group. Specifically, they envisioned a small, personal, low-cost device ("toy") that can receive a signal or read programmable material. Personal transistor radios and more modern WalkmanTM-type devices are such examples. Such devices are extremely cheap in the West, and can either use cards, chips, or tapes to carry information, or they can receive radio signals. Re-deployed for use in camps, they could offer everything from information about the camp to culturally appropriate programming. After the distribution of personal devices, aid workers need to follow up in two areas:

2. An Information System ('Camp Radio')

Voice (and eventual text/web) communications can provide tremendous support for all camp activities. To supply information and entertainment to camp inhabitants, camps need a broadcasting or information sourceÛin essence, the broadcaster who sends a signal or disk to the "Re-deployed Toys." A local GSM-based information system, along with a regional satellite-based system could provide the content needed to inform, instruct, and entertain refugees. Additionally, such telecom systems can create business opportunities for those establishing and running the systems.

3. Telecomm Education Centers

This would be a place wherein refugees and IDPs can learn the technical aspects of communications technology (i.e. how to use the personal devices, and how to run the information services), as well as the myriad ways that communications can bolster commerce, education and other activities. Such a training center, the group felt, should reflect whatever tools and infrastructure already exist in the rural areas since many of the people being trained will return to rural areas where they can continue expanding communications services in their home area. One important component of this three-part project is to train and educate people not only to use communications devices, but also train them to develop economic models that promote commerce in the rural areas.