US/ND-1: Re: A teachers perspective initially
Re: A teachers perspective initially
Marty Tennant (marty@sccoast.net)
Wed, 28 Aug 1996 06:21:57 -0700
Jan Bolluyt wrote:
>
> It seems that access potential and current technologies are so varied and
> changing so rapidly, I hope that universal access is not tied to a specific
> technology or equipment or defined so specifically to deny cost-effective
> and advanced technological changes.
This is a very important issue. Service providers might want to get committments
stretching out for years based on providing the "discounts". I would caution
schools from committing to too much, too early, in a rush of enthusiasm.
..snip..
> As our schools become less typed to a building, I hope that universal access
> is not restricted to within the walls of a physical building as many of the
> definitions purvey.
>
> When do "students" stop their "studenthood". At what point do we deny
> subsidized access. College? Junior College? Early graduates? Adult
> education? GED students? "life-long" learners?
These are all very valid points. Flexibility is needed in the ability of
schools to deploy the technology.
For this reason, and until I see the discount levels involved, I am thinking
that school districts may well want to consider the option of declaring
themselves to be a reseller of telecommunications services under the new
law. This provides discounts off retail along with freedom and flexibility.
It will not initially make your local telco happy.
Marty Tennant
President
Low Tech Designs, Inc.
"Bringing Technology Down to Earth"tm
"Common Sense Computer and Communications Solutions"tm