Why you need to know about “The Florida Formula”

Because it will likely be the education policy in your state, if not in the nation. The Florida Formula for Student Achievement promotes state level educational reforms that include grading schools on an A-F scale based on annual standardized test scores, ending social promotion in the third grade for students who can’t read, creating a … Continue reading

It’s not the 70’s any more. Ignore Hybrid Courses at your own risk.

One of our colleague/friends has been hired by a regional university to support the development of hybrid courses.  Hybrid courses blend face-to-face interaction such as in-class discussions, active group work, and live lectures with typically web-based educational technologies such as online course cartridges, assignments, discussion boards, and other web-assisted learning tools (Wikipedia). She has met … Continue reading

Wonder what to expect in technology solutions and integration for the next five years? Read the 2011 Horizon Report for a look at key trends.

The new edition of the Horizon Report has been published. Each edition introduces six emerging technologies or practices that are likely to enter mainstream use within three adoption horizons over the next five years. An Advisory Board selects and ranks trends that are considered to be key drivers of educational technology adoptions.  These trends for 2011 through … Continue reading

Meet new technology products aimed at education

I can’t say it better myself… Here’s a roundup of news from exhibitors at the Florida Educational Technology Conference (FETC), the Texas Computer Education Association (TCEA) conference, and the American Association of School Administrators (AASA) National Conference on Education in February. http://www.eschoolnews.com/2011/03/25/new-ed-tech-products-aim-to-solve-challenges-improve-learning/

Looking for assistance with USDA Distance Learning and Telemedicine Grant?

The U. S. Department of Agriculture has a wonderful grant program to provide distance learning equipment for schools, universities, and other educational (and health) organizations in rural communities. This grant does require matching and the applicant has to meet demographic requirements for poverty.  More details are available in an earlier post http://bit.ly/ecYgBL. We have 15 … Continue reading

Grant Opportunity for STEM: Innovative Technology Experiences for Students and Teachers (ITEST)

Innovative Technology Experiences for Students and Teachers (ITEST): (Due May 13, 2011) http://www.nsf.gov/funding/pgm_summ.jsp?pims_id=5467 The ITEST program responds to current concerns and projections about the growing demand for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) professionals in the U.S. and seeks solutions to help ensure the breadth and depth of the STEM workforce. ITEST supports the development, implementation, testing, … Continue reading

STEM Education Funding

STEM Education Funding STEM educators reported a lack of funding and professional development for teachers as two major barriers to realization of the vision of 21st century classrooms, according to the 2011 National Survey on STEM Education, conducted in December 2010. The top three challenges cited were funding (74 percent), a limited number of qualified … Continue reading

Grant Opportunity: Connections 2 Project Share (TEA)

Grant Opportunity: Connections 2 Project Share (TEA RFA# 701-11-104)                             Project Funding:  The Connections 2 Project Share Grant will be implemented during the 2011-2012 and 2012-2013 school years. Applicants should plan for a starting date of no earlier than September 1, 2011, and an ending date of no later than June 30, 2013. Funding will be provided … Continue reading

Resource: Technology Applications in Algebra K-12

I found some very practical resources while preparing a secondary mathematics grant proposal. These were created by the FDLRS Technology Coordinating Unit (FDLRS/TECH). This one provides technology resources for algebraic concepts, grades K-12: http://www.paec.org/fdlrstech/handouts/algebrasupport.pdf  This one addresses assistive technologies: http://www.paec.org/fdlrstech/accommodations.html They have other links for reading, writing, science and creativity.

Grant Opportunity: USDA: Distance Learning and Telemedicine Program

USDA: Distance Learning and Telemedicine Program Due: April 25, 2011 The Distance Learning and Telemedicine Program (DLT) is designed specifically to meet the educational and health care needs of rural America. Through loans, grants and loan/grant combinations, advanced telecommunications technologies provide enhanced learning and health care opportunities for rural residents. Eligibility: Entities providing education and … Continue reading