tkt8763-01: Mississippi trails

[Melanie Sanders <msanders@internet1.emcc.cc.ms.us>]

I believe the article has some degree of truth.  The South has always
seemed to trail behind other states in many categories such as pay,
technology, and education. However, I do believe this will change in the
near future.

It is true that Mississippi schools have been slow in acquiring
computers, but we as a state are improving.  Tech Prep has been a great
aid to the state in this respect. It may take a few years, but I firmly
believe that Mississippi will steadily move up the ladder and will not
occupy the bottom rung of the ladder forever.

In response to things that we can do to improve Mississippi's standing,
I believe we should incorporate computer technology at elementary
levels.  I recently spoke with an elementary educator and she said that
they did not introduce computers until the students were in the fourth
grade.   This may not be true of all schools.  She agreed that computers
are relevant at all age levels and should be introduced early.

I am also an advocate of adult night classes being taught at vocational
centers.  Adults that have not "grown up" with computers are hesitant,
but willing and eager, to learn.  They need the extra boost and
instruction that can be provided in night classes.

Finally, I believe that businesses can help by allowing employees to
attend computer/technology seminars or sponsoring the seminars at the
office.  This would encourage more active participation if the employees
are being paid to attend and will see the benefits of work efficiency.

******* TKT 8763 Seminar in Planning for Instructional Technology  *******
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