A parent walking into a classroom in a Minnesota public school today will be presented with a different learning environment compared to that of 20 years ago. Gone are filmstrips and movie projectors and in their place are computer screens. Today's classroom is a heavy user of digital media, and much of that is accessed via the Internet. It is…

This article profiles Cashton (Wisconsin) Public Schools Superintendent Brad Saron. Saron has always had a passion for technology. He has brought his personal passion for technology to bear in his job as superintendent of the 584-student Cashton Public Schools. As a principal and then as superintendent, he introduced iPod Touches, iPads, wireless…

Wireless connectivity in schools is all the rage, and many school systems have at least gotten their feet wet with a wireless lab or a few portable laptop carts. But Bijaya Devkota, the chief information officer of Charles County Public Schools, has done what many school systems only dream of--implemented universal wireless access throughout his…

Presents a debate on which technology will be in tomorrow's classrooms and the pros and cons of wiring classrooms and using a wireless network. Concluding comments address the likelihood, and desirability, of placing computers throughout the entire educational process and what types of computers and capabilities are needed. (GR)

Discusses the proper planning and upgrading of telecommunications infrastructure in schools that can support state-of-the-art data, voice, and video applications. An example of one school's efforts at installing an integrated telecommunications system for its 17,500 students is highlighted. (GR)

Under the 1996 Telecommunications Act, the Federal Communications Commission established a $2.25 billion annual fund to support communications services for needy K-12 schools and libraries. Services eligible for Universal Service support include telephone lines, integrated digital networks, private lines, and Internet access hookups. The…

Discusses the current status of information technology development in Kenya, especially as it affects higher education. Topics include management and funding of public universities; efforts to survive in the face of decreasing resources; Internet connectivity; telecommunications; network infrastructure; and information technology in university…

This report summarizes the findings and presents data from a nationwide survey conducted by the Texas Education Network (TENET) from July 25 to September 30, 1994. In response to a TENET questionnaire, representatives from 46 of the 50 states, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Bureau of Indian Affairs reported on the status of telecommunications networks…

Consultants can help a school district's technology dreams become realities. Or they can turn those dreams into nightmares. Technology consultants are providing services in several areas including technical assistance and staff training. A sidebar offers tips for finding a consultant and steps districts should follow to make the most of what they…

Describes the use of the Florida Information Resource Network (FIRN) in Florida public schools. Highlights include electronic mail exchanges; online conferences; remote research; classroom resources; training initiatives for teachers to learn about telecommunications; access to other systems and databases; and inservice, hands-on teacher training.…

This study was implemented to assess the state of computer technology in the Tri-County area; to determine the status of computer usage; and to provide a frame of reference for the broad technological status for comparison among schools. The population of the study, consisting of 91 elementary schools, 30 middle/junior high schools, and 25…

This collection of essays focuses on practical applications of technology in public schools; it provides a perspective by teacher practitioners and others on how technology is currently being used or could be used in Connecticut's classrooms for effective schooling. The following papers are included: "Preparing for the Information Age"…

This document and accompanying disk contain all of the articles from an "Education Week" special report examining the complex phenomenon commonly known as the "information highway" and how it affects the nation's schools. The articles, all by Peter West, include: (1) "Logged On for Learning," an overview of the…

Describes the North Dade Center for Modern Languages (CML), a public elementary magnet school that focuses on international studies and provides students with the opportunity to become bilingual, biliterate, and multicultural. Training and costs for telecommunications are discussed, computer networks are described, and the use of video equipment…

This handbook for educators and officials in Texas school districts provides guidelines for planning, implementing, and evaluating technology use in order to improve student achievement. Intended for use in districts that are planning locally appropriate strategies, the handbook is divided into seven major sections: (1) Introduction (purpose, the…