Technology Goes Home (TGH) is an innovative program designed to bridge the digital divide by bringing technology into low-income families’ homes. As a Boston Digital Bridge Foundation program, TGH strives to prepare adults for employment opportunities and to help children improve academic performance by offering computer training and equipment to families in Boston neighborhoods and schools. (Click here for full report.)

Classes are offered in groups, with parents and children learning together in order to strengthen families and build community as well as skills. Neighborhood programs are operated in six communities through Neighborhood Technology Collaboratives, coalitions of community-based organizations. These coalitions select participating families, and provide training, practice lab space and ongoing support.

The TGH @ School program uses a similar model through
which parents and their children participate in technology training delivered by fourth-grade teachers.

Evidence collected thus far in the evaluation process clearly demonstrates that:
• Families are interacting and changing through TGH participation. Participants are expanding their knowledge of computer technology, and strengthening relationships within their family, with other families, and within their communities.

• The program environment is conducive to both learning and building connections within and between families. Teachers offer students a great deal of individual attention, patience, and ongoing encouragement, and are able to teach to a variety of skill levels.

• Families become closer through the shared experience of learning together.

• Families also develop strong connections with community agencies, seeking support from TGH Coordinators even after program completion. Some participants report forming community with the other TGH graduates.