The promise of the Internet and network-centric computing to revolutionize schools by linking users and reso urces globally can only be realized when schools have sufficient classroom technology to enable all students to have online access. Online Links to the Home One major advantage of WAN connectivity in the school, particularly if linkable to student record information, is the ability of teachers and parents to communicate about student work and administrative requirements. Parent involvement is widely recognize d by teachers and administrators as having a powerful effect on student learning. When parents are aware of student assignments, pay attention to the work students turn in, and review results with children and teachers, student performance improves marked ly. WAN-based technologies can provide virtual access where physical access simply isn't possible.
Teachers can send samples of student work home electronically and receive parental responses.
Parents can dial-in to school bulletin boards to ch eck for information about the school and their children. Not every family can afford its own computer and Internet connection. Schools may be able to provide outside regular school hours access points where parents and other members of the community can obtain that access, increasing their own skills while incr easing their involvement with their children's education. In some communities, it may be possible for schools to cosponsor with other local agencies and businesses community technology outreach programs. Schools can use such facilities to create links to integrated teaching an d learning communities in partnership across a spectrum of resources including schools, social and governmental services, and businesses.