New Networks, Old Problems: Technology in Urban Schools. EWA Special Report.

Education Writers Association, 1331 H Street, NW, #307, Washington, DC 20005 ($12). Tel: 202-637-9700; Fax: 202-637-9707; e-mail: ewa@ewa.org.

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Joyce Foundation, Chicago, IL.

Computer Literacy; Computer Uses in Education; Educational Technology; Elementary Secondary Education; Faculty Development; High Risk Students; Internet; Poverty; Public Schools; Teaching Methods; Urban Schools

These papers examine computer technology use in urban schools. "E-Rate Takes Hold, but Slowly" (Donna Harrington-Lueker) charts the progress of four urban school systems using E-rate funds to build powerful communication networks. "A Chicago Front-Runner Bypasses the Internet" (Alexander Russo) describes one school's commitment to educational technology despite operating at 200-percent capacity and serving disadvantaged students. "When Wiring Isn't Enough, a Middle School Hires Another Teacher-Trainer" (Pricilla Pardini) explains how one Milwaukee school developed such an intensive, sophisticated use of computer technology that it had to hire a full-time staff member to train teachers. "Old Problems Stymie East High, but a New Networking Academy Emerges" (Shari M. Sweeney) explains how Cleveland's aging public schools face many problems beyond acquainting students with keyboards, often relying on grants and corporate partners to fill their technology needs. "Detroit Hopes Laptops and Bond Money Will Jump-Start Technology" (Peggy Walsh-Sarnecki); describes the limited access to computers in Detroit's schools, noting how the 1994 approval of a $1.5 billion bond issue for capital improvements such as technology upgrades has not been thoroughly utilized and describing the use of state money to buy 90,000 laptop computers for use by every public school teacher in Michigan. (SM)

2002

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