MTB - Chat ak Sourit: A Unique Educational App

The application MTB - Chat ak Sourit (also known as The Cat & the Mouse) is a remarkable creation that brings to life a delightful children's book originating from Haiti. This app is not just another digital tool; it is a testament to the power of education, creativity, and community collaboration. Developed by Dimitri, an intern under ACP's Open Educational Resources Development Program, this application has been crafted with care and purpose. It is designed to engage young readers while preserving cultural heritage through language and storytelling.

The story itself, Chat ak Sourit, is a charming tale written by the First Grade class at the Baptist Masikren School in Masikren, Lagonav, Haiti. This collaborative effort reflects the ingenuity of these young authors who have crafted a narrative filled with imagination and humor. The book is part of a larger collection curated by Mother Tongue Books, a program run by the Matenwa Community Learning Center (MCLC) on Lagonav Island. MCLC serves as a beacon of hope and learning for the local community, fostering educational opportunities and cultural preservation. Organizations like the Friends of Matenwa further support these efforts, ensuring that resources reach those in need.

One of the most striking features of this app is its multilingual approach. Originally written in Haitian Creole, the book has been translated into both French and English, making it accessible to a wider audience. The app offers audio recordings in all three languages, allowing users to immerse themselves in the story while improving their language skills. The Haitian Creole recordings were generously provided by the Matènwa Community Learning Center, highlighting the commitment of local communities to preserving their linguistic heritage. This feature makes the app particularly valuable for young learners in Haiti and beyond, as it promotes bilingualism and cultural pride.

The development of this app represents a significant milestone in educational technology. According to A Connected Planet Foundation (ACP), there is a scarcity of applications available in Haitian Creole. Recognizing this gap, ACP has taken the initiative to create its own suite of educational apps tailored specifically for Haitian children. These apps cover a range of topics, including numbers, colors and shapes, fruits and vegetables, and animals. Each app is designed to be engaging, interactive, and culturally relevant, ensuring that young learners can connect with content that resonates with their lives and experiences.

Behind the scenes, ACP's team comprises professionals from diverse fields such as academia, education, computer science, business, industrial-organizational psychology, and speech-language pathology. Their combined expertise ensures that the apps are not only technically sound but also pedagogically effective. By focusing on early childhood education, ACP aims to lay the foundation for lifelong learning among Haitian youth, empowering them with essential skills and knowledge.

In conclusion, MTB - Chat ak Sourit is more than just an app—it is a bridge connecting cultures, languages, and generations. Its unique blend of storytelling, cultural preservation, and technological innovation makes it a standout resource for educators and families alike. Whether you're a parent seeking engaging content for your child or an educator looking to incorporate culturally relevant materials into your curriculum, this app is a must-have. As ACP continues to expand its offerings, it remains committed to its mission of democratizing education and fostering global understanding.