Mission Statement

TECC is a non-profit organization devoted to carrying out social ventures focused on technology and education that are coordinated by socially-minded individuals from the United States and China.

Vision

The goal of TECC is to

• Undertake innovative projects that leverage technology and education to create opportunities and bridge the digital divide
• Establish a network of socially minded individuals in the United States and China to encourage social innovation and collaboration
• Foster increased understanding and cultural exchange between the United States and China
• Nurture future leaders in social ventures

Problems

TECC addresses two key concerns:

• In recent years, China has emerged as a driving force in the world economy and large cities along the eastern coast, such as Beijing and Shanghai, have fueled this prosperity. However, inland agricultural regions, which are home to approximately 70 percent of China’s population, have largely missed out on this economic growth. Many regions suffer from grave poverty and poor educational opportunities. Education is key to addressing this socioeconomic gap, but many past efforts to improve education have been hampered by lack of funding or long-term continuity.
• With China’s emergence as a global leader, cross-cultural exchange and understanding between the US and China has never been more critical, particularly among future leaders. Numerous exchange programs help bridge this cultural gap, but students rarely have the opportunity to actually collaborate on meaningful, substantive projects.

Solutions

TECC leverages technology and a dedicated student network to improve education in an effective, low-cost, scalable model. University students from the US and China teach computer usage, Internet skills, teaching methods, English, and other relevant skills to underprivileged communities. Our student volunteers receive expert curriculum and teaching guidance from groups like the Stanford School of Education. Teaching occurs both on-site and through long-distance education. By leveraging online capability, we are able to cost-effectively sustain projects over long periods to have lasting impact. Online capability is ensured through partnerships with other non-profits that can provide computers and internet access. TECC also improves access to technology and educational materials through donations of books, computers, audio-tapes and other supplies.