Access to off-reservation resources and telecommunications capability between isolated tribal bands are clear benefits, yet the necessary infrastructure is lacking. Expertise in information sciences developed through academic programs in computer science and engineering is an obvious path toward self-determination in tribal telecommunications. Probably the most important step toward developing expertise and interest in information sciences is experience, providing telecommunications services to American Indian students at an early age.
Tribal schools have several obstacles to overcome in developing telecommunications infrastructure.
Connectivity services for tribal lands are also relatively expensive when available, yet it is becoming clear that tribal communities, colleges and schools need such services in order to develop strong academic programs. Grant support for tribal schools to develop information services is available yet not necessarily attractive. For tribal colleges, funds are available mostly through federal grant programs. Matching requirements, perhaps not oppressive to savvy research universities, can be heavy burdens for tribal colleges and may prevent tribal colleges from seeking funds in the first place. Yet, telecommunications infrastructure remains important for tribal education, and connectivity is obtained through a variety of initiatives.