NCREL Policy Issues
Issue 15, January 2004
Policy Analysis
14. Guidelines for Technology Infrastructure
Policy studies are needed on the value of states providing technology infrastructure guidelines to districts. Whether or not such support is needed at this point in history is an open question. One argument for this type of state-supported resource is that information technology continues to evolve rapidly, and new capabilities such as wireless hand-held devices offer opportunities to enhance educational effectiveness and equity. To provide value in assessing emerging technologies, however, state guidelines must include a range of technologies and must frequently be updated. Both actions are not typical of many state guidelines now.
In the North Central region, Ohio provides the most substantial guidance to districts on their decision making about technology infrastructure. The SchoolNet Plus program provides funds that allow schools to purchase computers, with the goal of one computer per every five students. The Software Review Project consists of a library with hundreds of reviews of instructional software.
Resources
Ohio SchoolNet Plus
www.ohioschoolnet.k12.oh.us/3_programs/default.asp?pg=2&tab=fastfacts&program=schoolnetplus
Ohio SchoolNet Software Review
Project
www.ohioschoolnet.k12.oh.us/3_programs/default.asp?pg=2&tab=fastfacts&program=ssrp
