Learning without a computer? No problem.
iSTEP launches follow-up course in Tiefenau
02.09.2025
Last Saturday marked the start of the next phase of our project at the collective accommodation in Tiefenau. The iSTEP association continues its commitment in the field of Digital Literacy (Powercoders) and now offers participants a follow-up program with advanced IT skills and further development of soft skills.
How it all began – This summer, iSTEP accompanied the Digital Literacy (Powercoders) team in their inspiring initiative. Digital Literacy is led by former asylum seekers (graduates of the Powercoders program) who share their knowledge and experience. In a crash course of up to eight Saturday afternoons, they teach newcomers the most important digital basics needed to find their way in Switzerland: writing applications, creating a professional email address, composing emails, or taking part in a video call for a job interview. From the previous Digital Literacy courses, the desire for a follow-up program aimed specifically at graduates emerged. Many participants wished for the opportunity to deepen and apply their knowledge after completing the basic course. Through several preparatory meetings between iSTEP and the responsible team in Tiefenau, the project was concretized. The important point was to design the course consciously as a pilot project for Digital Literacy graduates. At the same time, it was to be practical, with topics such as email communication, application documents, using apps in everyday life, data protection, and safe use of AI. Cultural exchange, networking in Switzerland, and learning German together are also central goals. A start without computers – and yet with a lot of substance. Due to organizational delays, no computers were available on the first course day. Instead, we used the opportunity to develop course guidelines together with the participants and clarify expectations. Through group work, not only did a shared experience emerge, but also lively exchanges: punctuality, mutual respect, and active participation were highlighted as core values. Fittingly, one participant actually showed up ready to go at 9:00 a.m. sharp – while the others took a more relaxed approach, arriving gradually.
A highlight was the role play in which participants took on the role of company leaders. Together they decided which values would be important in their company. It quickly became clear that the principles they developed applied not only to a company but also to the course and, just as much, to their future life in Switzerland. Values such as team spirit, respect, and reliability form the foundation for learning together and for a successful future. In addition, we had a very positive experience learning German together: through a bilingual PowerPoint presentation, sentences were displayed side by side in German and English. This helped participants compare words, recognize connections, and at the same time strengthen both language practice and digital skills. At the end, everyone received homework to prepare for the next session. Despite the missing technology, this first phase already showed its value: it enables participants to take responsibility for their learning, practice content in everyday life, and build a common foundation for the weeks ahead.
Growing together – our next steps. In line with iSTEP’s vision to individually support people with limited access to education and to grow together, we will continue the project next Saturday. We will address the topic of learning organization. Step by step, participants will learn how to structure their learning goals, plan tasks, and track their progress. As soon as the computers are ready for use in mid-September, the practical introduction to LibreOffice will follow: writing texts, working with spreadsheets, designing presentations, as well as a creative introduction to programming with Scratch.
The pilot phase runs until October 11, 2025, with the course taking place weekly during this time. Afterwards, we will carefully evaluate the project and use the experience gained to further develop and firmly establish the program.
