Location Information:
We intend to build our classroom at a location that has been provided for us by the village of Otongatchi, a small rural community on the western edge of the Cloud Forest in central Ecuador. Otongatchi has requested a media lab with at least ten computers to be built in a location adjacent to their elementary school. The area is very warm and humid, with lots of rainfall, which will present a problem with electronic equipment. Our classroom design will be based around sustainability and affordability while being resistant to the elements.

Potential Problems/Solutions:

Moisture/Heat
To counteract issues with both moisture and heat, we will be using Aleutia™ P1 rugged personal computers. The P1 is designed for rural Africa, and can withstand up to 95% humidity and 35?C temperatures. Peripherals will be purchased from Quito or another nearby city to ensure humidity and heat are not a problem, as well as language compatibility. http://www.aleutia.com/products/p1

Bugs
A one meter section of mosquito netting at the top of the building will be installed to increase airflow while keeping out insects. The rest of the building will be sealed.

Natural Lighting
During the day the classroom will use natural lighting. The roof of our classroom will have a west-facing slope and semi-open upper half to allow sunlight in. The ceiling of classroom will be painted white, allowing the light to be diffused to prevent glare. During the night, regular light bulbs will be used.

Sustainability
We plan to use local materials that have the least environmental impact on the area. This will prevent costs and pollution by having reduced shipping and manufacturing.

Theft
Theft does not pose a large issue in such a small community; nonetheless, the building is made out of solid materials and will be locked while not in use.

Budget

$29,000 ($21,000 extra)

-$7000 Computers

-$2000 Desks

-$5000 Computer Accessories

-$8000 Labor

-$5000 Building Materials

-$1500 Rainwater Collection System

-$2000 Extras

Materials

Cement and Rebar.

Mosquito Mesh and 4x4 Supports.

Corrugated metal roof.

Bamboo rafters.

Location