Harnessing Digital Tools for Training of Caregivers in Dual-Generational Solutions for Migrant Communities

• In Event: Roundtable Session 2
  In Refereed Roundtable Session: Locating the role of technology in family-oriented solutions for early years in fragile contexts

Proposal

Presenter: Nehyi Paola Quintero Pinilla, Digital Director at aeioTU
aeioTU is a Colombian social enterprise that offers access to formal, affordable, and high-quality early childhood care and education (ECCE) services through the establishment of the center and family-based care services. In addition, aeioTU provides professional development and technical assistance support in early childhood development to organizations and educational institutions from the wider ecosystem. Since its inception in 2008, aeioTU has primarily operated in Colombia. In 2023, the organization expanded its reach to Mexico.

Lately, aeioTU has also been focusing on supporting migrant populations, particularly children who face challenges accessing early childhood development centers. At the core of this program is an innovative training model designed for community leaders from both migrant and host populations. The community leaders receive comprehensive training in various flexible pedagogical scenarios on early childhood education, drawing upon aeioTU's wealth of experience in the field. Responding to the interest from the ground, the program now aims to help community leaders trained to become formal caregivers and establish their own childcare businesses that meet aeioTU's high-quality standards. This approach not only improves the quality of childcare services but also fosters economic empowerment and community resilience by creating valuable income opportunities within migrant communities. The primary training method is the aeioTU network, an E-learning platform that provides asynchronous courses, podcasts, and articles at no cost and is accessible to families. For users with limited internet access, select content is also made available through WhatsApp. The platform aims to be a Social Network of Learning (SNL), in which all its members can share their experiences and maintain dialogue with others about Early Childhood educational practices.

The discussion in the roundtable will delve into the nuances of implementing a dual-generational strategy that supports both children and caregivers in migrant communities and the role technology plays in advancing this. aeioTU will specifically summarize its main learnings from using digital tools in training in fragile contexts and promoting social learning through digital platforms. Specific examples will be provided on how asynchronous courses, podcasts, and articles have been utilized to enhance training engagement and outcomes amongst caregivers. In the roundtable, they will also address themes around key challenges faced during their digitalization journey, including technical, logistical, and contextual barriers, and the strategies employed to overcome them. Additionally, aeioTU will discuss future plans for expanding its digital and training initiatives within childcare programming to more contexts like IDP and other peace-building contexts. They will also discuss potential innovations and areas for further development including partnerships, and modality of delivery to enhance the reach and effectiveness of their program.

Author

• Nehyi Paola Quintero Pinilla, aeioTU