In truth, much remains undone, and each year with little or no state money widens the gap between what Connecticut schools teach about technology and what graduates need to know about it to make their way in the world. Renewed effort is essential on several fronts, says Gruendel. One area is that of a continued buildup in computers, other equipment and technology capabilities. More than half the state's schools use computers with outdated operating systems, and even more schools are without classroom telephone lines and sufficient electrical outlets for technologically oriented instruction. In addition, the state has failed to establish a Connecticut Educational Network linking K-12 schools with the state library system and institutions of higher learning.
Training is essential Another area is teacher training.
While most teachers have some familiarity with technology, they often lack the detailed knowledge of computer programs that are available in various subjects and how to use those programs for instruction. To remedy that, Gruendel said Connecticut Voices for Children is suggesting a crash, three-year effort to provide summer technology training institutes with stipends for teachers who attend. Summer offers an opportunity for them to learn technology. Still another vital area, according to Gruendel, is the development of statewide competency standards, similar to those being or already developed for reading, math, science, etc. The standards would set out what skills students need to have developed such as word processing, Internet research, etc., by the time they have reached eighth or twelfth grade.