Dell TechKnow, one of the largest computer donation programs for students in the United States, is one way Dell is helping its K-12 customers meet the educational needs of their students and communities. Together, Dell and participating districts provide relevant, hands-on technology instruction to low-income or underserved middle school students. Upon graduation, the students earn their own home computer.
What Is TechKnow?
Dell TechKnow, originally named Learn and Earn, was established in 1998 by longtime Dell customer, Denver Public Schools. The district developed the program to combat its high dropout rate and to provide home access to technology for low-income students and families.
In an effort to provide its K-12 customers with a turnkey educational approach to bridging the digital divide, Dell adopted the program in 2002 and launched it nationwide as Dell TechKnow. Since then, more than 25,000 students from more than 60 school districts across the United States and Canada have completed the program and earned a refurbished, Internet-ready home computer of their own, courtesy of Dell.
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to common questions about Dell TechKnow.
View TechKnow Frequently Asked Questions
Testimonials
Read about the impact of the program from the perspective of Dell TechKnow students and teachers.
Read TechKnow Testimonials
Application
Would you like to offer the Dell TechKnow program in your district? If so, find important programs and eligibility information, as well as the online application, here.
Program Requirements
See what resources are required to offer the Dell TechKnow program.
Learn More About TechKnow Requirements
Benefits of TechKnow
Dell TechKnow is one example of Dell's ongoing commitment to help students develop the skills and experiences they need to be successful in today's workforce. The company, recognizing the changing needs of education and the workforce, revamped and relaunched the program in June 2008. The new program, instead of focusing on basic computer training and access, hinges on more and better classroom instruction, and hands-on experience troubleshooting and resolving technology problems.
Upon completion of the program, students are able to:
- Identify the main components of a computer
- Disassemble and assemble a computer
- Identify the main elements of the Windows® OS and perform basic file and folder operations
- Install and uninstall software
- Perform routine maintenance tasks on a Windows based PC
- Identify and fix the most common Windows based PC issues
- Identify and fix the most common Windows issues
- Prepare basic documents using Microsoft® Word®, Excel® and PowerPoint®
- Identify and fix the most common Office Suite® issues
- Identify and implement the essential elements of a successful help-desk operation
- Complete two of three Internet Crime Compliant Center (IC3) certification requirements
In addition to the skills listed above, Dell TechKnow students gain relevant and highly marketable twenty-first century skills, regarded across industries and professions as necessities for effective contribution to the global workforce. These skills include:
- Creative and critical thinking
- Problem solving
- Effective communication and collaboration
- Technology operation and concepts
