If done properly and with patience, however, technology in the classroom becomes even more valuable. Each classroom is equipped with a telephone and phone line to establish internet connections, teachers have their own voice mailboxes, and all students and staff have personal e-mail accounts. Philosophically, PHS has worked at other areas of school reform, such as high level professional development, community outreach and block scheduling to ensure that this technology is used most effectively. Quinn also outlined three major federal initiatives which seek to bring more schools up to speed technologically. The National Technology Plan sets a broad framework for the use of technology in all schools.
Teacher training is critical to effectively implement technology.
Access to the internet must be far-reaching. The content of the curriculum must be carefully examined. All three of these initiatives were developed at the federal level, but rely heavily on state and local design and control. For additional information on the key issues discussed in this forum, please contact the following individuals or the American Youth Policy Forum directly. Reported by Vincent Spera.