Project Delta was founded in 2013 with the intention of researching the potential of solar or renewably powered classrooms and also the possibilities of using Information and Communication Technology to support the learning and teaching of Mathematics.
Now that Proof of Concept has been achieved, the intention is to site a renewably-powered off grid computer classroom in a suitable location in the developing world. We have two suitable connections; the Swaminarayan Sanstha, with its wide geographical reach, has kindly agreed to consider a serious project proposal. A friendly connection has also been forged with Mushumba Scholars Ltd which runs schools in Lugazi, Uganda.
The most promising development on the educational side has been the use of prompt videos to encourage the development of mathematical problem-solving skills. Project Delta has developed its own innovative and strictly non-commercial website – challengeprompts.co.uk – to support preparation for the Junior, Intermediate and Senior Challenges of the United Kingdom Mathematics Trust, which has kindly given us copyright permission to use its excellent problems in the prompt videos. All our experience points to the usefulness of this website and it is being recoded to give us valuable statistical data on responses.
The research undertaken so far was presented to the online summer conference of the British Society for Research in the Learning of Mathematics. An article published on their website. It is may be found here in ‘Action Research’ under About us.
Funds have been raised so far from generous sponsors and further sponsorship will be welcomed.
Funds will also be raised by tutoring, offering enrichment courses etc. to schools and from the shop.
Recoding website for research purposes, as explained in the post ‘Using prompt videos to improve problem-solving skills.’
Good data on the effectiveness of the videos
6 months
£2000
Making, editing and uploading 300 videos @ £50 each
Improved clarity of videos achieved with new Aver visualiser
One year.
As at December 2021, 100 videos made, editing in process
£15,000
Cost of packing materials, setting up equipment for posting…
Bespoke cubic cardboard boxes, postal weighing machine etc.
4 months
£2500
Promotion of website and the new products for sale by social media expert
Instagram, Facebook, media
One year
£4000
Formation of Community Interest Company. In 2019 Bates Welles gave a typical cost of £2,250 – £2,500 for a straightforward application
A more suitable legal framework than an unincorporated not-for-profit association
Before moving to Phase 3
£3000
Phase 3 Design of classroom with reference to location and renewable energy resources, purchase of equipment, laptops, identifiaction of appropriate software, transportation, installation costs
Installation of first projected renewably powered computer classroom in developing nation.
By 2026
In the absence of benchmarks
£250,000
Last Updated: 5th October 2021
