EDUBox: finding suitable locations for offgrid mobile classrooms in the context of underserved communities

Alberto Martinetti*, Nina Trauernicht, Margot Dietrich, Peter Kipruto Chemweno

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleAcademicpeer-review

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Abstract

The refugee crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic continue to negatively impact access to education, and especially disproportionately affect underserved communities. Apart from access, such communities experience additional barriers including inadequate classroom infrastructure and suitable localization of such infrastructure. This paper aims to provide an analytical framework to identify the most suitable locations for mobile classrooms for underserved communities, thereby mitigating the lack of access to equitable education for underserved communities. To construct the analytical framework, we conduct a critical literature review to conceptualize the educational needs of underserved communities. Next, we proposed parameters that may be applicable for determining locationally metrics that match the educational needs of underserved communities. On this basis, we explore tools and methods applicable for suitability analysis and developed a geo-information framework that integrates an analytical hierarchy process tool to prioritize parameters decision-makers can apply to identify optimal areas to locate classroom infrastructure. This framework was applied to a use case of determining suitable location areas for an innovative mobile classroom (EDUBox) in Jordan. Using the framework, we demonstrate its applicability by identifying appropriate locations adapted to the tertiary and vocational education needs of underserved persons including refugee communities.
Original languageEnglish
Article number7
Number of pages18
JournalJournal of International Humanitarian Action
Volume9
Issue number7
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 25 Apr 2024

Keywords

  • Edubox
  • Underserved Communities
  • Suitability Analysis
  • AHP
  • GIS
  • SDG 4 - Quality Education

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