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An Edtech Initiative in Nepal Schools for Learning English

English literacy, technology and education, reading and comprehension

RightToRead- An ‘Edtech for English Literacy’ Initiative

English teaching and learning in schools of Nepal is undergoing an amazing transformation with the edtech initiative, RightToRead. The initial launch covers grades 3-5 in 48 government schools across 8 districts of 4 provinces.

Almost 100 teachers and over 5000 students are covered in this phase. This project is a partnership between EnglishHelper and Nepal English Language Teachers’ Association (NELTA).

What is RightToRead? 

RightToRead is an edtech initiative that aims to enable English literacy in schools with the help of multi-sensory reading and comprehension AI software – ReadToMe®. Research indicates, language is learnt best when learners are exposed to the language in a multi-sensory environment. 

Studies have also confirmed the need to introduce change thoughtfully and methodically in public education systems. RightToRead ensures the fundamental tenets of sustainable change. These include: the study of prescribed textbooks, the continued pivotal role of the teacher as the leader in the classroom, the integration with school time-table and the deployment of the program leveraging existing IT infrastructure. 

ReadToMe®, the AI software, enables the reading of English textbooks during normal class hours. It supports ‘localisation’ by offering voice (accent) choice and translation to vernacular. In Nepal, RightToRead is an example of a unique and successful blend of technology and education. 

RightToRead- Empowering Teachers 

Teachers using ReadToMe® classes play an important role in encouraging students to actively participate in improving their English reading and comprehension with the aid of the AI multi-sensory software. Teachers’ effectiveness is enhanced as students enjoy the digital learning experience. 

Echoes From the Staff Room

Srijana, is an English teacher for Grade 5, Shramik Secondary School, Hetauda, Makawanpur. She says, “I have been taking ReadToMe® classes regularly and can see the effectiveness and usefulness of the RightToRead program. Students are now more interested to attend ReadToMe® classes to improve their English reading and comprehension skills.” Srijana is a ‘model’ teacher and was recently appointed as a coordinator by NELTA to oversee the RightToRead program in all schools of Makawanpur district.

Tanka Prasad Bhattarai, is the Principal of Shree Shahid Smriti Secondary School, Sunsari. He says “the ReadToMe® software is very innovative. The students are very excited to go to the labs for their English reading and comprehension classes. I feel, ReadToMe® software is very engaging and helpful for the teachers as well.” Tanka Prasad, is also the Regional Coordinator for NELTA, Sunsari.

Krishna Shrestha, is an English teacher for Grade 5, Aiselukharka Secondary School, Sindhupalchok. He says, “teachers feel the RightToRead program is very beneficial as students enthusiastically take interest in their ReadToMe® enabled English classes. I believe, the RightToRead program will benefit students in the long run.”

To view a ReadToMe® Demo class please click https://youtu.be/TUlSxyW2X5I

For more information about RightToRead projects, please connect with us on LinkedIn, Twitter, and Youtube.

Click here for our innovative Spoken English program – EnglishBolo™, a joint Initiative of EnglishHelper and Schoolnet. To know more about EnglishBolo™ connect with us on YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook.