The State Educational Technology Directors Association, or SETDA, has released its seventh annual report about the Enhancing Education Through Technology, or EETT, program. Based on surveys completed in 2009 by the state educational technology directors from all 50 states, as well as reports from the U.S. Department of Education, the report examines how the funds were used to support technology in K-12 classrooms.
The researchers narrowed it down to five key trends:
1. Creating student-centric, research-based, technology-rich learning environments.
2. Enhancing professional development opportunities.
3. Supporting the effective use of data.
4. Increasing academic achievement.
5. Exploring innovative education models such as online learning, open and digital content, and Web-based teaching and learning communities.
The report also provides examples of successful models of the way funds have been used to further technological advancement in K-12 schools.
The report highlights the importance of the EETT program, and although it does not itself advocate for more money for the program, it does point out that the EETT program “is the only federal education program that supports meaningful uses of educational technology in classrooms and schools nationwide,” and “a broad coalition of organizations is currently seeking a federal appropriation of at least $500 million for fiscal year 2011,” despite indications from President Obama that the program’s budget will be zeroed out in the 2011 budget.
Read the whole report here.