SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5735

BYSenators Gaspard, Patterson, Bender, Smitherman, Anderson, Matson, Fleming, Murray, Talmadge and Johnson; by request of Superintendent of Public Instruction

Establishing a technology in education program.

Senate Committee on Education

Senate Hearing Date(s):February 20, 1989

Senate Staff:Leslie Goldstein (786-7424)

AS OF FEBRUARY 20, 1989

BACKGROUND:

A consensus of state and national educators and business leaders conclude that in the emerging information age technology is touching virtually all aspects of society and life. Educational technology is important in providing a strong technological basis for Washington's economic future.

Existing services in education technology include the Educational Technology Centers in each of the nine Educational Service Districts.  Other services include computer education curriculum guidelines.

During the fall of 1988, the Senate Education Committee and the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction jointly surveyed the use of educational technology in Washington State.  One of the conclusions of the study is that there is a need for increased support for all components of the district process involving technology in education from planning and policy-making to teacher training, access to information, hardware and software acquisition, and evaluation of programs.

SUMMARY:

Educational technology is defined as including the use of computers, peripherals, telecommunications, and other technology- related equipment and supplies to enhance the teaching and learning process.

The Superintendent of Public Instruction provides to school districts services including integrating technology into the curriculum and training teachers and administrators about the use of current and new technologies.  The Superintendent of Public Instruction coordinates the development of educational technology including telecommunications instruction and curriculum programs.

Appropriation:    $5,198,000 for the following educational technology activities: Educational technology centers, technology-assisted curriculum in Washington State history and physical science, and competitive school district grants;  $8,758,000 for educational telecommunications.

Revenue:    none

Fiscal Note:      requested February 20, 1989