High-Tech Degrees Being Granted Less Than Ever

  • 06/01/99

The American Electronics Association (AEA) recently released a rather sobering report titled CyberEducation. The report looks at the state of technology education in K-12 and higher education. Although we've reported on these trends in the past (T.H.E. Journal, 9-98, p. 32) it's worthwhile pointing them out again. The report uses a uniform definition permitting real comparability of technology education data among all 50 states and the District of Columbia by providing one-page state overviews detailing K-12 performance, high-tech degrees awarded since 1990 and the top degree awarding states.

Some of the findings include:

  • high-tech degrees declined 5 percent between 1990 and 1996
  • of the decreasing number of degrees awarded, a significant portion went to foreign nationals
  • California had the greatest decline, awarding 1,600 fewer degrees in 1996 than in 1990

For the complete report, call the AEA at (800) 284-4232. AEA members can purchase the report for $95; non-members for $190. American Electronics Association, Washington, DC, www.aeanet.org.

Featured

  • stylized human profiles, tablets, and floating icons

    From Feedback to Flexibility: 5 AI Tools Teachers Should Try

    As a fifth-grade teacher and AI School Champion in the St. Vrain Valley School District, I've seen firsthand how artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming education. Here are five AI-enabled tools I've found especially powerful in my classroom and professional practice.

  • computer monitor with a bold AI search bar on the screen

    Google Rolls Out AI Mode in Search

    About a year after introducing AI Overviews for its flagship search offering, Google has announced broad availability of AI Mode in Search.

  • portable Wi-Fi hotspot rests on a stack of books and a laptop in a library

    Senate Votes to Rescind E-Rate Program Funding Loaner WiFi Hotspots for Schools and Libraries

    The Senate has passed a joint resolution to overturn "Addressing the Homework Gap Through the E-Rate Program," a July 2024 expansion to the FCC's E-Rate program that allowed schools and libraries to utilize E-Rate resources to loan out WiFi hotspots to students, school staff, and library patrons.

  • silhouetted student stands before the White House, surrounded by abstract digital graphics of brains, circuits, and AI elements

    White House Sets Sights on AI Education

    A new executive order from President Donald Trump aims to advance America's position in artificial intelligence technology by incorporating AI into education and providing AI training for educators.