Dr. Simutis responded that we need to understand the most effective way to train teachers. They examined the potential impact of the growth of Internet-based distance learning on our nation's education system, particularly its impact on the country's research universities. It also focused on what should be the response of science funding agencies, and particularly the National Science Foundation. He noted that others simply believe that distance learning is a poor substitute for traditional classroom learning. Distance learning is suited to all academic disciplines and can improve the quality of teaching.
Students seem more willing to participate in on-line courses as opposed to a classroom setting.
The panelists noted that K-12 science and math curriculums can be improved because the students will be able to receive additional help at the click of a button. One of the disadvantages of distance learning is that the digital divide will intensify the differences in opportunities between those who have online access and those who don't. They believe the federal government can support efforts to narrow or eliminate the digital divide. The panelists also noted the National Science Foundation is responding well to rapidly changing times and the federal government should continue pilot programs on distance learning, provide computers and Internet access to all teachers, and develop assessment models. Copyright laws and data base protection legislation also should be revised for distance learning.