News Brief
Alaska Hopes to Lead in Digitizing Classrooms
Associated Press (03/30/13) Berlinger, JoshuaThe Alaska Department of Education and Early Development has proposed the Alaska 1-to-1 Digital Technology Initiative, which would distribute tablet computers to every student over a period of four years. The Association of Alaska School Boards and the department have partnered to seek funding from lawmakers and forge connections with private firms to implement the program in the districts. The program could prove instrumental in educating students in rural Alaskan villages that have no roads leading in or out. The $15.5 million program, under which the state would cover 60 percent of the costs of the tablets, would go beyond merely handing out tablets to students and teachers by creating a new education infrastructure that would revamp instruction and ensure students graduate with 21st century skills. According to State Education Commissioner Mike Hanley, "It's not just to put a textbook on an iPad and call that new technology. ... We're looking at helping teachers become more effective and more efficient." He says today's apps and software allow teachers to tailor assignments and instruction to students' individual needs. Additionally, the department plans to expand the state's online homework help initiative; the Alaska Online With Libraries project to provide broadband access to isolated locales; and the Alaska Learning Network to broadcast districts' online live, interactive classes statewide.
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