Cable Industry Sponsors Internet Training Effort
The cable television industry has assembled a comprehensive training program for K-12 teachers interested in taking advantage of the Internet's vast educational resources. Dubbed webTeacher, this 80-hour online course includes information on the Universal Service Fund, high-speed cable modems and other subjects.
The training program is part of Cable's High Speed Education Program, an initiative to provide schools nationwide with free cable modems and Internet access. Among the participating cable providers are Jones Communications, MediaOne, Time Warner and Cox Communications.
The International Society for Technology in Education, the National Education Association, the National Parent Teachers Association and the National Association of Secondary School Principals have agreed to inform their members about webTeacher, which can be used either as a self-paced workbook or as a guide for structured training.
In addition, TECH CORPS, a non-profit organization of volunteers dedicated to bringing technology into America's classrooms, will partner with local cable systems to distribute webTeacher brochures to more than 75,000 schools. "We are very excited about our partnership with the cable industry and the local educational outreach opportunities," stated Karen Smith, executive director of TECH CORPS.
National and state TECH CORPS organizations are funded through contributions from the private sector. Companies or individuals who wish to learn more about TECH CORPS should send e-mail to [email protected] or call (800) 285-6781. National Cable Television Association, Washington, DC, (202) 775-3629, www.ncta.com.
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This article originally appeared in the 12/01/1997 issue of THE Journal.