Analysis of School Dropouts and Impact of Digital Literacy in Girls of the Muthuvan Tribes

Abstract

The Indian state of Kerala has a high literacy rate and human development index compared to other states in India. But this has not extended to the tribal population of the state. Female tribal populations are particularly disadvantaged for a variety of reasons including vulnerability to exploitation and abuse. This study investigates factors contributing to the high dropout rate and evaluates the success of a computer literacy intervention with tribal girls who had previously dropped out of the education system. A sample of 31 students in two centers was administered a survey to identify why the girls had dropped out of the school system. The analysis showed three clusters of learners. The students received computer literacy training after which they took an externally certified examination in basic Digital Literacy and computer concepts. Policy recommendations to decrease the dropout rate, ensure safety, and encourage further education for tribal girls are presented.