Infobus is a mobile information center. The aims of the Infobus is:
- to encourage the residents of Kaunas and Kaunas region to start using the computer and internet by giving them initial instruction;
- to encourage the users to discover the use and fun of information technology in their everyday lives.
Infobus serves all Kaunas and Kaunas region residents who are not familiar with computers or the internet. There are people in all age groups and social classes who are new to the internet. Of course older age groups form a large proportion of these people, because they did not learn about computers in school or at work. There are even many fields in the working world where computers are only now coming into use. So Infobus is to those, who haven't much time and want to use it effectively.
There were 32 tours to remote places of Kaunas region by Infobus when implementing the project “Library community public information centre” in 2004. Basic instruction was provided to about 450 persons.
Services:
- Infobus can be booked for any group of citizens, or individuals can sign up to open tutorial groups. The group can be from organization, neighbours, acquaintances, anyone. Each can receive instruction at Infobus with a group of 8 people.
- Timescale – 8 hours of work together.
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Each is instructed having short practical course introducing to:
- key concepts of information technologies;
- using the computer and file management;
- text management;
- information and communication.
- Each can find literature in the Infobus, introducing information technologies: news, working guides, and promotion material about distance learning services.
- Basic instruction is free of charge for Kaunas and Kaunas region organizations and private persons residing in Kaunas and Kaunas region.
To make certain of acquired knowledge, users can use computer skills testing after the instruction.
Technology
Infobus is appointed with 8 modern computers (RAM 256 MB, LCD monitors, and optical mice) and a laser printer. Learning environment - Microsoft Office XP and StarOffice. Internet feeding - by connecting computer net (LAN) of the Infobus to the power supply at the libraries, schools and municipalities.
Future
In addition to providing basic instruction Infobus also will serve as an internet access centre in the remote places of Kaunas and Kaunas region. Kaunas municipal Vincas Kudirka public library is ready to prepare an educational programme for developing computer skills. It will serve as a tool for lowering the threshold to the information society.
