Nearly 266 million adults in India cannot read or write, and are thereby deprived of critical growth opportunities. To address this deficiency, Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) came up with the Adult Literacy Program (ALP) in the year 2000. ALP runs on TCS’ proprietary Computer-based Functional Literacy (CBFL) solution, which employs innovative information and communications technology solutions to promote literacy.
The CBFL solution enables adult learners to read, write, and perform basic arithmetic within 50-55 learning hours. Its prime focus is on words rather than alphabets, thus enabling students to acquire a 700-word vocabulary in nine Indian and three foreign languages. The program uses a combination of teaching methods such as software, multimedia presentations, and printed materials. Animated graphics, voice-overs, and puppets are also employed to make the learning process more enjoyable.