(This is the Online column, written for The Southland Times)
Tim Shadbolt’s not the only Southlander getting national attention right now. The Brocks family, of Invercargill, is one of the 25 families selected from around the country to take part in Connected Lives, which brings the households together in a unique community showcasing how the latest technology can enrich the lives of all Kiwis.
The families were selected from more than 8000 registrations and are broadly representative of the New Zealand population.
Each home is supplied with an Xtra broadband connection, home wireless network and the latest HP technology worth up to $6000 in total. The programme also includes a major independent research project that looks at the impact of broadband and technology on participants lifestyles, attitudes, and behaviours.
Connected Lives runs started in April and finishes next month and each month, participants undertake challenges that extend their use of the technology and encourage learning. They also keep an online diary, which highlight how the technology is affecting their lives.
The rest of us can share in their stories and vote on their performance at the site.
A judging panel assesses the challenges and there are prizes to be won. Points are also allocated for each challenge and so far, the Brocks family is in the lead. Go Brocks!