Digital Literacy and Substance Abuse Awareness Using Tablets in Indigenous Settlements in Kerala

Abstract

A problem that is prevalent among many of the tribal communities in Kerala is the addiction to alcohol, tobacco and drugs. Keeping youngsters from becoming addicted is a major part of the battle and is easier than trying to de-addict them later. We discuss an integrated program that trained 1000 indigenous, primarily adolescents and young adults, in digital literacy and health awareness using tablet technology in their native language. The tablet modules were designed for low-literate learners. Technology enhanced health literacy, substance abuse and mental health modules were designed for youth and adolescents. A survey was administered to 98 students in four villages belonging to the Irula and Muthuvan communities to understand the prevalence of substance abuse and awareness about ill effects of the substance abuse after the training. A problem that is prevalent among many of the tribal communities in Kerala is the addiction to alcohol, tobacco and drugs. Keeping youngsters from becoming addicted is a major part of the battle and is easier than trying to de-addict them later. We discuss an integrated program that trained 1000 indigenous, primarily adolescents and young adults, in digital literacy and health awareness using tablet technology in their native language. The tablet modules were designed for low-literate learners. Technology enhanced health literacy, substance abuse and mental health modules were designed for youth and adolescents. A survey was administered to 98 students in four villages belonging to the Irula and Muthuvan communities to understand the prevalence of substance abuse and awareness about ill effects of the substance abuse after the training.