House Subcommittee Looks at Technology in Education
A representative from Apple Computer, Inc. recently appeared at a hearing before the US House of
Representatives Education and Workforce Subcommittee on Early Childhood, Youth and Families. The hearing focused on technology in American schools, in order to determine which K-12 technology programs should be priorities for federal funding. Five witnesses appeared before the subcommittee to speak on the importance of educational technology, the need to introduce technology in the early grades, the importance of technology education to the workplace, and the need for technology training for teachers.
Tony Lee, Senior Director of Worldwide Markets for Apple, delivered a testimony that emphasized the need for technology training in the educational system to bring skills into the workforce. Lee highlighted the importance of a one-to-one student to computer ratio, as well as the need for teachers to learn how to use technology and integrate it into their curricula. Apple’s research has shown that staff development is a critical component of technology’s effective implementation in schools. Research also shows that in order for technology to impact student achievement, it must be effectively utilized as a tool for communication and collaboration: skills also necessary in the workplace.
All five testimonies can be found online through the House of Representatives at www.house.gov. Further information regarding Apple’s education programs and their proposed technology integration solutions can be found on the education section of their Web site at www.apple.com/education. Apple, Cupertino, CA, (800) MY-APPLE, www.apple.com.
This article originally appeared in the 05/01/2000 issue of THE Journal.