Representatives from the INEE (Inter-agency Network for Education in Emergencies) and IRC (International Rescue Committee) both contributed to the research and development of this project.
Because of the refugee crisis in Iraq, millions of children lack the tools to elevate their educational experience. There is a need to remedy the effects of trauma and regain a sense of identity and belonging. This project focuses on the Iraqi refugee community in Jordan.
Grout is a puzzle/game designed to stimulate problem solving skills, encourage dialogue/communication and reestablish a sense of identity and place. The design allows the product itself to be produced using local manufacturing resources and materials.
Grout is intended to create a ripple effect of learning and communication. This ripple effect will begin with the Iraqi refugee children and stretch to the immigrant and host families as well as the community at large.
The next steps of this product would involve implementation in different refugee settings in need of the similar solutions. In new settings, the project would re-address issues of language, material and manufacturing processes.
Christian John
