Highlands University has established a computer network comprising the two school districts in the Las Vegas area linked to the NMHU local area network. We created this network for the elementary, middle and high schools in the hopes of improving science and mathematics education. We see this as a key component of an ongoing effort to bring more students into the Engineering pipeline at the college level. Teacher training in science and mathematics at the elementary education level tends to be lacking, especially in New Mexico. In recognition of this problem, we have provided extensive training on the basics of Internet and on how to use the capabilities of Internet to promote learning.
Internet is only a tool and, as such, can be used both effectively and ineffectively.
Internet connectivity provides a useful backbone for tutoring services. Elementary, middle and high school students have direct electronic mail contact with each other and Highlands University. Parents are key partners in a successful program allowing student access to Internet resources. For those parents who home-school their children, we have provided computer access through the local public library. Whether at the public library or at a school library, we have made it the responsibility of the librarian to maintain student and teacher accounts and also security.