An example of this is Classroom Connect s unique Quest adventure learning series, which provides students, teachers and parents with the opportunity to follow an expert team, in real time, on their travels around the world on an educational exploration. Twice a year for four to six weeks, a team of adventurers and curriculum experts explore a mystery such as what is taking place today in the Mayan ruins in Belize. Students around the world are communicating with scientists on site and other related experts to solve the mystery of what happened to the Mayan civilization. The team on site communicates via portable computers and satellite technology carried on their backs for student viewing the next day. Quest subscribers direct the journey as they vote on the team s next destination and fact finding strategy and email the adventurers with questions, ideas, and insights during the trek.
Technology also brings efficiencies to educational management.
The Internet opens the market to non-traditional providers, thus enhancing education competition and student choice. The result is effective data management, procurement savings, and other cost efficiencies long enjoyed by business. At the same time, research and experience will inform our design and use of technology to improve teaching and learning and increase achievement. Many examples of success already exist. SIIA's 2000 Research Report on the Effectiveness of Technology in Schools reviewed existing research and found that technology increases educational opportunities and student achievement, and that the degree of effectiveness depends on the match between such variables as student needs, software design, education goals, and educator training.