ABSTRACT

In this chapter, we explore the need to expand the use of technology in our classrooms in ways that enhance student learn­ ing and expand opportunities for all students.

T h e D igital D iv id e

Looking ahead to the twenty-first century, President Clinton challenged the nation to ensure that all children will be equipped with the skills in reading, math, science, communication, and critical thinking that are essential for enhanced learning, im­ proved performance, and technological literacy. To promote this goal, in 1994 the White House implemented the National Infor­ mation Infrastructure (II) initiative, challenging the nation's schools to connect to the Internet by the year 2000. The Educa­ tion Rate (E-rate) program provided support, with the largest discounts (90 percent) going to the poorest communities and up to a 10 percent additional discount for rural communities. The program was so successful that 95 percent of all public schools were connected to the Internet by 1999 (National Center for Edu­ cation Statistics, February 2000).