Multimeter

Over the past six weeks, ReCognition Circular has been proud to collaborate with University College Birmingham (UCB) to deliver a specialised computer repair workshop for students on the new L3 Engineering T-Level course. Like BTEC courses, which will eventually replace T-levels are technical vocational qualifications for 16 to 19-year-olds. Unlike BTECs, a key element of the T-Level is the industrial placement, which gives students access to a real working environment as part of their studies.

This innovative programme is aimed to equip young people with the knowledge and practical skills needed to diagnose, repair, and refurbish IT equipment. By combining classroom learning with hands-on experience, the workshop empowers participants to not only contribute to a more sustainable future by reducing e-waste, but also gain valuable skills that can open doors to exciting careers in the tech sector.

Building Skills and Confidence

The workshop curriculum covers a comprehensive range of modules, including:

  • Understanding Devices: This module introduces students to the core components in all devices
  • Basic Fault Diagnoses: Students learn to identify common problems faced by IT equipment.
  • Introduction to Repair Skills: This module equipped students with the basic tools and techniques needed for safe and effective IT equipment repair.
  • Basic Repairs (laptops / desktops): Students gain hands-on experience repairing common issues encountered in laptops and desktops.
  • Basic Repairs (smartphones / tablets): This module focuses on repair techniques specific to smartphones and tablets.
  • Cosmetic Repairs / Improvements: Students learn how to restore the physical appearance of laptops and other devices.
  • BIOS / Firmware updates: This module covers how (and why) to update the core software that controls IT devices.
  • Adding Value to Devices: Students explored ways to enhance the functionality and lifespan of refurbished IT equipment.
  • Operating Systems and Data Wiping: This module provides training in operating system installation and secure data wiping techniques.
  • Further Basic Repair Skills: Students further hone their repair skills, tackling more complex issues.
  • Upgrading Computer / Laptop Hardware: This module explores hardware upgrades for improving the performance of IT equipment.

Putting Theory into Practice

To solidify their learnings, students are encouraged to bring in their own personal devices for repair and upgrades throughout the workshop. These real-world projects provide valuable experience in applying the covered skills. Recently, some of these have included:

  • Silencing a Loud PS4: We looked at a student’s noisy PlayStation 4, diagnosing and resolving an issue with faulty thermal paste.
  • Recharging Faulty Earbuds: Another student brought in earbuds that wouldn’t accept a charge. The culprit, a failed solder joint.
  • Fixing Controller Drift: Fixing “stick drift” in a game controller, although a common issue is not that easy to fix. We discussed the cause of the problem and repaired it for him.

Learning Doesn’t Stop

As part of the workshop programme, every participant not only gets a set of basic tools, they get a laptop to work on. This not only allows them to further develop their skills but also gives them a valuable piece of refurbished equipment to keep.

The students will have the opportunity to put their skills to practise by volunteering at repair cafes. They’ll be supervised, but they’ll be repairing real devices belonging to real people.

Building a More Equitable Digital Future

This workshop exemplifies ReCognition Circular’s core mission: to bridge the digital divide and empower individuals facing social exclusion. The enthusiastic students will leave the programme with the confidence and skills to not only secure future employment in the tech sector but also contribute to a more inclusive digital landscape within their communities.

For Local Authorities, Government Departments and Funding Organisations:

ReCognition Circular’s innovative workshops equip young people with the skills needed for in-demand tech careers. Our programs foster enthusiasm and confidence, leading graduates to actively contribute to the workforce. Furthermore, by focusing on repairing and refurbishing IT equipment, we promote circular economy principles and significantly reduce e-waste. We invite your partnership in supporting these impactful initiatives.

For Local Businesses:

Looking to fulfill your corporate social responsibility goals and make a real difference? Partner with ReCognition Circular! Here’s how you can get involved:

  • Employee Volunteer Days: Give your team a rewarding experience by volunteering at our workshops.
  • Cost Support: Help us secure the resources needed to continue offering our valuable programs.
  • Work Experience: This could be a formal placement/apprenticeship, or just a ‘day in the life’ experience in your business.
  • Equipment Donations: Do you have unwanted computers or mobile devices? Donate them to ReCognition Circular, and we’ll give them a new life.

Want to learn more. Take a look at the follow-on article that includes feedback from participants!

Together, we can empower young people, promote sustainability, and tell compelling stories about positive community impact. Contact us today at info@recognition-circular.org to learn more.