this is an interesting post, because I started off by searching teacher blogs. I wanted to find some real-life example of classrooms using blogs to communicate with parents, students, and other school personnel. However, I got sidetracked by an article that I read on a site called TeacherLingo.com. This site is basically a communication hub for teachers of all types. Everyone has a blog on the site and writes about whatever her or she chooses. On one of the blogs a teacher referred to this article http://www.eschoolnews.com/news/top-news/?i=59180, titled, Schwarzenegger: Printed texts are old school. I couldn't help but become sidetracked.
Schwarzenegger is encouraging schools in the state to look into using online books. I know we talked about this briefly in class a few weeks ago and it looks like California could be moving in this direction. The article alludes to the fact that California is facing a huge budget deficit and Schwarznegger's proposal of using online materials rather than printed books could potentially save the state millions of dollars.
I wonder what the publishing companies think of this? I am assuming that many of them have seen this move coming and have started to change their business plans based on the changing needs of schools.
I am also wondering if all the schools in California would have the necessary technology to utilize online books for each student. There could be hidden costs in moving towards online books if schools do not have the infrastructure to handle this change. Also, what impact would this have on students? Would the expectation be that every student have internet access outside of school to complete homework? I am sure that many people are currently asking these same questions and most have probably been answered, but they immediately came to my mind.
I will be eagerly anticipating California's next move!
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Will the move to online books it just makes me wonder if there will be a back-up plan for when or if technology fails. I can remember many times when I was in school where the power would go out or the internet would be down, what would you do then? And what if it lasts not just minutes or hours, but all day long?
ReplyDeleteIt should be interesting to see, I think it would be a big step, and on the plus side cut down on paper waste from the books greatly.
What a find and you bring up issues that hopefully someone is thinking about. Textbook purchases are a huge expense to schools - online books, textbooks do sound good but like you say -- what access do we/students have? and what is the cost of the infrastructure? In a state like California that would be huge - this will be interesting to follow and see what happens. I am sure publishing companies are keeping a close eye on this.
ReplyDeleteThis sounds like a great way to cut down on the budget and like Amanda said cut down on the paper use. But, I too worry about a back-up plan if technology fails. I also hope that they do not forget the importance of actual books for the kids to read!! I would hate for the kids to read completely everything online.
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