FIRST TIME OPEN SOURCE SOFTWARE CONTRIBUTOR: MY OPPIA STORY

Introduction

March 4th, 2024, at 05:02 PM WAT, marks a significant turning point in my life – the moment I received the email from Outreachy, announcing approval for my initial application as an Open Source Software Contributor. As a first-timer on this stage, the elation I felt was immeasurable. Little did I know, this would mark the beginning of a journey that would intertwine my passion for technology with my commitment to education.

I Chose Oppia

As I went through the instructions and project options given by Outreachy, one name immediately caught my attention – Oppia. As I learned more about what Oppia stood for and what they aimed to achieve, I felt a strong sense of connection. Their project, focused on spreading awareness about The Oppia Foundation's mission and showcasing the Oppia Math App, really resonated with my own values and goals.

First Hand Experience: Charity Begins At Home

Before I started spreading awareness about Oppia, I knew it was important to fully understand the Oppia Math App. I spent time exploring both its Android and web versions, and even introduced it to my children. Each interaction with the app helped me see how it could make a difference. Seeing my children's joy and excitement while using the app only motivated me more to share its benefits with others.

Designed Flyers: My First Advocacy Strategy

With my own experience and the zeal to make a difference, I began a mission to make more people aware of Oppia starting from my neighborhood and church community. I used different strategies like creating eye-catching flyers, which I shared to parents and educators in my neighborhood and church community and using social media platforms like WhatsApp, Facebook, LinkedIn to reach more people. The response was really positive – I received a lot of curious questions from parents and educators, which showed that they were interested and curious about Oppia.

The real impact comes from directly engaging with the community. Seeing the interest and excitement sparked by Oppia among students and parents confirmed its potential to change education for the better. As I talked about Oppia's mission and showed what the app could do, I could feel a sense of inspiration written all over their faces.

Testimonials: The Impact of Oppia

The real way to understand Oppia's impact isn't through numbers, but through the heartfelt stories of its users. Whether it's my children and their friends or people in the community, everyone agrees – Oppia is making a difference for people of all ages. Their words reflect exactly what Oppia is all about – making education accessible to everyone and empowering learners around the world.

Because of how my kids have created awareness before other kids in my church, whenever we went to church for evening programs, my kids would bring their group of

friends to me to have a try on the app. We were doing it on my mobile app, so I? decided to be going to church with my laptop, so more kids could have a try. Most times, we spend 30 to 50 minutes before going home. There is no evening programs that you would not hear the children say, “Aunty it’s my turn today, I didn’t use it yesterday”

This is “Mummy Oppia” feeling so cool and happy for being part of Oppia’s mission. Mummy Oppia is a name I earned from my children!????.

The children say interesting things about Oppia app.

Hear My 9 years old daughter:

I like the stories and the friendly tone of the female English voice over makes it more interesting.

My 11 years old daughter? Shelah also confirmed it:

The app is easy to use, I like the fact that I can always go back to the the list of topics to choose any topic I want to learn.

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One of my kids’ friends, Joshua says:

It’s interesting and you can never get tired of using it!

Join the Movement

If you are reading this story, I invite you to join Oppia in her mission to empower education through Oppia Math App. Take the time to explore the app, see its impact for yourself, and think about how you can contribute your time or resources to help this important cause. Whether you choose to volunteer, raise awareness, or donate, your participation can truly make a meaningful difference in the lives of learners worldwide.

Please visit Oppia's website for the web version or, download the Android app, and see for yourself the positive impact it's making in communities worldwide.

Feeling inspired? Consider joining Oppia by volunteering your time or donating to Oppia's cause. By doing so, you pave the way for a brighter, more equitable future through education.

Conclusion

In conclusion, as an Oppia Open Source Software Contributor, I can confidently say it has been life-changing. Through advocating, engaging with the community, and gaining hands-on experience, I've seen firsthand the incredible influence of open-source technology on education. I invite you to join us in shaping a better, fairer future through education with Oppia.

Please do well to follow up on my next story as I take this Oppia mission to schools and orphanages.