Creation of this web resource has been made possible through the commitment of a cross-department partnership of the Isle of Wight Council and initial project funding was secured through the ‘TrEACL’ initiative supported by the National Learning Network.
There are two distinct aspects to the project: -
The first was to create this website and the facilities to digitise fragile archive materials into an expandable database which would have a search facility that is both easy to use and accurate.
To catalogue the amount of material available for the whole island is a huge task which will require considerable work and time. Therefore this project focuses on the geographical area of East Cowes.
We are however committed to its growth in future years to become a valuable resource for the entire population of the Isle of Wight.
The second aspect of the project was to support adult learning opportunities; although we actively support and encourage use by all members of the community, whether for school work, exploring your own interests, or through one of our successful adult learning programmes.
Two learning programmes have been developed as part of this project. The first builds on previously successful work focusing on local history that has been developed in partnership with English Heritage. ‘How to be a History Detective’ encourages the whole family to find out about the history on our doorsteps.
The second programme looks at the Cowes/East Cowes boat trail focusing on the industrial heritage of this community. Two activity books have been produced to accompany the walk, giving children at Key Stage 1 and 2 ( 5-7, 7-11 years old) tasks to complete whilst enjoying the heritage and benefiting from a healthy walk.
This project will also act as a catalyst for adult learners and tutors to gain confidence in using computers, the internet and Information and Learning Technology.