April 03, 2025 Tech Tinkering: Refurbishing to Achieve Tech Equity
On April 03, 2025, Circuit Revival hosted the Tech Tinkering workshop at Algoma University, led by Alison Canning and Amy Kanal from Let’s Get Together Canada. This event focused on equipping students with practical skills in computer refurbishment and recycling while fostering discussions around tech equity and sustainability. The workshop featured modules such as Refurbish Computer Tech4All Guides and Recycling Computers Tech4All Guides, supported by evaluation sheets to track progress. Students utilized tools like computer testing kits, cleaning kits, desktops for testing, and an e-waste bin to conduct assessments such as identifying processors and determining hard drive health. Students followed the same previously mentioned privacy standards of removing old storage drives, and upgrading the to meet a minimum standard of 8GB RAM for optimal functionality. Participants also reflected on tech equity by addressing key questions about the digital divide and its impact on marginalized communities.
The true impact of the workshop was later revealed by Alison in its outcome: the refurbished computers and laptops were destined for community members in need, including a student whose laptop was damaged in a flood, new immigrants seeking to establish themselves in the country, and individuals from marginalized communities. By providing these individuals with access to reliable technology, the workshop directly contributed to bridging the digital divide and fostering social equity. For instance, the student who lost their laptop in the flood would be able to continue their studies without interruption, while new immigrants could access vital resources and job opportunities online. Similarly, marginalized community members would gain better access to healthcare services, education, and employment opportunities, thereby enhancing their socio-economic status. This initiative not only promoted environmental sustainability by reducing e-waste but also empowered individuals and communities, demonstrating the powerful impact of collaborative efforts between nonprofit organizations and educational institutions.
As Algoma University students embark on their learning journey in computer repair, the three workshops led by Let’s Get Together Canada have laid a foundational path for them to develop into self-sufficient repair specialists. These workshops not only introduce students to the technical aspects of computer refurbishment but also cultivate essential soft skills such as effective communication, leadership, public speaking, and critical thinking. By participating in hands-on activities focused on computer refurbishment and recycling, students enhanced their technical expertise while developing essential soft skills such as communication, leadership, public speaking, and critical thinking. These workshops fostered a collaborative environment where students could engage in discussions about tech equity and sustainability, further enriching their learning experience. As a result, students became not only self-sufficient in computer repair but also more confident and effective in their interactions and problem-solving abilities.
CIRCUIT REVIVAL 