The Consortium of School Networking (CoSN) hosted a conversation today in Washington, DC on technology in K-12 during the economic crisis. One idea shared during the open discussion was that the current economic climate underscores the value of technology.
We know broadband provides an economic boost to communities and opens doors to new educational opportunities, but today’s discussion offered new thoughts and ideas on how educators are using technology to cut costs. One educator said his school is having people work from home during the summer break, so they can save money on energy costs. Another administrator mentioned how his school is working to reduce textbook costs by using resources available on the web. He also noted the important role a robust network plays in making these options possible. Another panel participant addressed the amount of time and resources used to develop emergency preparedness and contingency plans. She stressed how virtual learning options can overcome many of these challenges during emergencies, citing schools that were forced to close because of the swine flu this spring.
Economic challenges often drive innovation, and these educators are looking to broadband-enabled technologies to save costs and still meet student needs.
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