Post #2- Jessica

I found this article from the Boston Herald on Education Week’s website (http://www.edweek.org/ew/articles/2009/09/15/04mct_books-extinct.h29.html?r=1511748751). It talks about the shift in instructional tools in the state of Massachusetts from print to digital. A recent survey by the state’s DOE showed that more than half of the states schools districts have already or plan to upgrade their curriculum into a more tech-savvy approach, specifically targeting textbooks. The state is also using federal stimulus funding ($8.5 million, to be exact) and grants to incorporate technology initiatives aimed at improving student achievement.
This is a classic example of history repeating itself. Massachusetts has always been a cutting edge state when it comes to education and has always clearly identified education as one of its top priorities. I believe they will find this effort to “modernize” the curriculum across the state will benefit all people involved. The students will feel more capable when they leave the public education realm and may even be more engaged while they are still enrolled. The parents will certainly appreciate the technology instruction being provided hand-in-hand with the state standards. And the businesses in the surrounding communities will benefit by having the next group of employees enter the workforce capable and familiar with the technology of today. With the biggest hurdle (money) being minimized, I say why not!