Connecting K-12 Schools in Higher Education

Abstract

Videoconferencing is the latest distance learning technology to hit K-12 (elementary and secondary) education. Distance learning in all of its forms—including correspondence courses, Internet, e-mail, radio, phone/fax, instructional television, videotape, and videoconferencing—is helping elementary and high schools across the country bring new, relevant, and expert content into classrooms. Students and teachers are able to work and learn with those who they can only connect with through technology. Distance learning allows students to participate in classes located at a far away school, connect to expert college or government researchers, and converse with others who live in a different culture than their own. High stakes government testing and increased teacher accountability are pushing elementary, middle, and high school teachers to engage students by finding new resources and using innovative techniques in the classroom.