Dell TechKnow Program Showcased at Event, Michael Dell Visits Dvorak Academy

10,000 graduates and counting, program boosts students’ computer skills

The Dell TechKnow program and 100 middle school participants were showcased in front of parents, students, and administrators, when Michael Dell visited Dvorak Math, Science & Technology Academy on January 10. There, Dell announced the 10,000^th graduate from the program, Dvorak 7^th-grader Samantha McGhee.

Since the program began at CPS in 2002, more than 710 students have graduated from 30 schools. 

The Dell TechKnow program is a self-paced course in which students use a free refurbished Dell desktop computer and work in teams for hands-on learning of computer basics. Students learn how to take apart and rebuild a computer, install and use software, upgrade components, and diagnose and fix basic hardware problems. Students also learn valuable skills such as teamwork, collaboration, and communications.

Upon completion of the program, students take home a refurbished Dell desktop computer loaded with Microsoft software if they also meet attendance requirements, demonstrate good citizenship, and sustain or improve their grades. Students receive one year of Internet access at no charge.

Teachers from CPS middle schools serve as the instructors for the Dell TechKnow program, while the OTS Office of eLearning works with those teachers and Dell to help ensure a quality experience for both the student and the District.

"Dell TechKnow is a great example of the types of innovative programs the Dell and CPS partnership can generate. These programs enhance learning and bring technology equity into our students’ classrooms and homes," said Robert Runcie, Chief Information Officer. “Dell TechKnow allows students to take ownership of their work and provides them with not only technical skills, but the incentive to use technology to advance their learning throughout life