Computers and Schools in the News

"Court ruling halts Cobb's laptop plans" From eSchool News staff and wire service reports published in eSchool News on August 8, 2005. A plan to put a laptop computer in the hands of every teacher and student in Cobb County, GA has been stopped because the court ruled that the school board had not told the taxpayers about the plan when the sales tax that was to fund them was imposed.

"The Tablet PC Takes Its Place in the Classroom" by Thomas J. Fitzgerald published in the New York Times on September 9, 2003. Tablet PCs are finding a promising niche in schools.

"Six schools selected for Dedicated Notebook Computer research project" a press release by the New Brunswick Department of Education Educational Programs & Services Branch published June 22, 2004.

"Laptops Win Over the Skeptics, Even in Maine" by Sarah Mahoney published in the New York Times on March 5, 2003. "Just six months after Maine began a controversial program to provide laptop computers to every seventh grader in the state, educators are impressed by how quickly students and teachers have adapted to laptop technology."

"Laptop program gets a boost" by Glenn Adams published in MaineToday.com on January, 3 2003. Low income students in Maine will get free Internet access with the school laptop computers due to donations including $100,000 by outgoing Governor Angus King.

"Clayton among counties to offer teachers laptops" by Rochelle Carter published in the Atlanta Journal-Constitution on December 19. 2002. Every teacher in the three public schools of Clayton County will get a Dell laptop computer with the belief that this equipment will improve student learning.

"$400 million gift aids school laptop program" published in eSchool News on November 11, 2002. EDS, a Texas company, said that it’s giving Maine schools software valued at $400 million to help the state implement its pioneering laptop computer program.

"Gov. King visits Kittery school as laptop program begins" by Jennifer L. Saunders published in Foster's Online on September 6, 2002. The state of Maine has begun its statewide laptop program with the distribution of iBook laptops to all seventh grade classes. Also covered in eSchool News.

"Despite first-year woes, Henrico schools to expand $18.5M laptop program" published in eSchool News on August 28, 2002. Henrico County, Va is continuing one of the largest laptop programs using Macintosh iBooks with wireless networking.

"PCMS Laptop Program - a 21st Century Success" by Ben Bragdon published in the Piscataquis Observer on June 19, 2002. Six months after PCMS was chosen as a demonstration site for the Main MLTI laptop program, they are an example of how computers should be integrated into the curriculum.

"Henrico a template for other school laptop plans" by Peter Cohen published on MacCentral on June 12, 2002. This article references a report by the American School Board Journal regarding the iBook program in Henrico County, Va.

"Maine Catholic schools launch laptop program of their own" published in eSchool News on June 1, 2002. Two Roman Catholic schools in Maine began a pilot program with laptop computers that mirrors the public school initiative in that state.

"School battles laptop problems" by Kate Carter published in the Athens Banner-Herald on February 6, 2002. Ten percent of computer screens were broken only 5 months after all students in Hilsman Middle School received their laptop computers.

"Lot to Learn About School Laptops" by Katie Dean published in Wired News on January 9, 2002. Progress continues on the plan for one-to-one student to computer ratios in Maine.

"State picks Apple as supplier of laptops" by Mark Shanahan published in the Portland Press Herald on December 4, 2001. Apple will supply iBook laptop computers to all Maine's seventh and eighth graders. They will also provide wireless networking, software, training and technical support over a four-year period.

"Gingrich: Students should have laptops" by Jim Molis published in the Atlanta Business Chronicle on November 23, 2001. Former House Speaker, Newt Gingrich gave a speech before the Georgia Public Policy Foundation luncheon in which he advocated giving every student a laptop computer.

"Laptops open new world for students" by Jennifer Deitz Berry published in the Palo Alto Weekly on November 14, 2001. The Belle Haven Elementary school in Palo Alto, California was able to give every student a laptop computer because of a grant from Hewlett Packard.

"Editorial: Sixth-grade laptops need a second look" published in the Palo Alto Weekly on November 7, 2001. The newspaper editorial favors the plan for laptop computers in the Jordan Middle School.

"Disappointment over halt to laptop program" by Jennifer Deitz Berry published in the Palo Alto Weekly on November 7, 2001. The staff and volunteers who worked on the laptop program at the Jordan Middle School in Palo Alto, California are disappointed that the district officials put an end to their plans for a voluntary iBook program. Also covered as "California school shelves laptop plan" by Diana Walsh published in the Seattle Post-Intelligencer on November 5, 2001.

"Palo Alto school asks parents to buy laptops", an AP wire story published by fyi at CNN.com on October 29, 2001. Parents of students at Jordan Middle School in Palo Alto, California are upset after officials asked them to buy their sixth-graders $2,000 laptops. Also published in the San Diego Union-Tribune.

"Learning to Be Wired" by Bob Thompson published in the Washington Post on September 16, 2001. A story of how Apple eMates are integrated into the curriculum at Lowell School, an independent pre-primary and primary school in Washington, D.C.

"Gov's Laptop Plan Approved" by Katie Dean published in Wired News on August 24, 2001. The article, which includes an audio interview with Maine Governor Angus King, describes the plan to give all seventh-graders a laptop in the state/

"School Wants Laptop on Every Desk" by Jessica Garrison and Daniel Yi published in the LA Times on August 23, 2001. The Chaparral Elementary School in Ladera Ranch, Ca is asking parents to purchase an Apple iBook for each student in the 3rd though 5th grade. Loaners will be available for students who cannot afford their own computer.

"Teachers laud in-class benefits of computers" by Robert Alan Glover published in the Detroit News on August 13, 2001. The article reports on the positive reactions to teachers getting laptop computers in Michigan.

"Gateway Heads for Campus With a New Notebook" by Joe Hutsko published in the New York Times on August 2, 2001. Gateway computer has announced a new laptop model targeted towards the education market soon after the latest Apple iBook announcement.

"Maine governor’s laptops-for-students plan battered, but still alive" published in eSchool News on August 1, 2001.  The budget to give a laptop computer to middle-school students has been scaled back from $50 million to $30 million and Gov. Angus S. King needs to raise $15 million from private sources. 

"Four Issues to Consider When Starting a Laptop Program" by Kim Carter published in eSchool News on July 1, 2001. This is an abstract of an article that appeared in the May 2001 issue of Technology and Learning.

"Laptops for All Doesn't Mean They're Always Used" by Mary Ann Zehr published in Education week on June 7, 2001. While some educators are championing laptops as the latest answer to encouraging widespread use of computers by secondary students, real-world experience on the part of schools that have distributed laptops shows that things don’t always work out as planned.

"Students Embrace Technology" by Jay Mathews published in the Washington Post on June 5, 2001. A number of schools with high computer to student ratios are cited for their use of computers.

"Laptops to transform learning for 23,000 Virginia students" published in eSchool News on June 1, 2001. "In what may be the largest deployment yet of laptop computers in schools, thousands of Henrico County, Va., students will have one more book to tote around next year: an Apple iBook portable computer."

"Lakeside School Receives $10 Million Grant from Paul G. Allen Charitable Foundation for School's Laptop Program" published in  Business Wire on May 25, 2001. The Lakeside School in Seattle, Washington received a $10 million grant for technology to update their wireless network, upgrade servers, purchase software, provide training and create a significant endowment for laptop use throughout the school. Also covered in Seattlepi.com.

"Thick walls no barrier to wireless network" by Kevin Marron  published on April 27, 2001 in globetechnology.com. The thick walls of the Trinity College buildings were overcome by the use of wireless networking for this laptop school.

"Life Among the Laptops" by Barbara Weathers published on March 1, 2001 in School Library Journal. Laptop computer use at the Duchesne Academy of the Sacred Heart is described. The reasons for the program and other background is given.

"iBooks big component of school LAPtop program" by Dennis Sellers published on February 8, 2001 in MacWorld MacCentral. "The LAPtop (Learning Assistance Program) at Jordan Middle School in Palo Alto, CA, has provided Apple iBooks to approximately 50 students in one 6th grade team."

"State school laptop plan to be sped up" by Carolyn Jones published January 31, 2001 in The Age. "Laptop computers will be provided to all state school teachers and principals by the end of the year under the State Government's plan to speed up its online strategy." The plan covers 37,000 teachers and 1600 principals in Victoria, Australia.

"Children's Computer Use Grows, but Gaps Persist, Study Says" by Tamar Lewin published in The New York Times on Janurary 22, 2001. This is a report on a study issued by the David and Lucile Packard Foundation researching the penetration of computers into American households and their connection to the Internet.

"Shift for Education Technology Policy" written by Susan Stellin, published in The New York Times on January 10, 2001.  "The new Education Technology Policy is much more focused on using this new technology to transform teaching and learning.  The new goals put more emphasis on making sure students develop technology and information literacy skills, and also focus on the need for more evaluation and research to determine the effectiveness of various technology applications used for teaching and learning."

"Laptop program is nearly online" written by Mark Hornbeck in the Detriot News on December 22, 2000. The state of Michigan is buying 90,000 laptop computers that will be given to teachers and they will be encouraged to take them home.

"Laptops pose new challenge on campus" written by Patrick Healy, published in the Boston Globe on December 3, 2000.  "Gleaming laptops are everywhere at the University of North Carolina this fall, the result of a new freshman requirement to revolutionize education."

"Free School Computers Withdrawn" written by John Schwartz, published in The New York Times on Thursday, November 2, 2000.  "Earlier this year, Plainfield High School in Central Village, Conn., signed up for a free computer lab from the ZapMe Corporation. An e-mail message from a company employee explained that times were tough for ZapMe, which had come under attack as a tool of commercialization in the schools. As a result, the superintendent was told, the company was quitting the free-computer business."

"Three studies: Technology can make a difference" published in eSchool News on November 1, 2000.  “Fool’s Gold argues that money spent on technology in K-6 education could better be spent on other, more pressing concerns, such as eliminating the threat of lead poisoning in some urban school districts or paying for educational field trips.  But many technology advocates think there is little long-term evidence showing the effectiveness of technology on learning simply because educational technology is still coming of age in schools.

"Viewpoint -- Gold into straw: Alliance report misses mark" published in eSchool News on November 1, 2000.  “The adage “the older I get, the better I was” now extends from personal recollection to collective judgment of earlier eras, if one accepts the Alliance for Childhood’s recent report “Fool’s Gold: A Critical Look At Computers and Childhood.” Once again, the public is served up conclusions based on research and quotations from laudable, notable people, all of whom share two important characteristics—they are neither children nor educators who actually use technology as a tool to improve learning."

"Are Laptops Really Improving Education?" by Daniel J. Rocha published in eSchool News on November 1, 2000. This article is abstracted from "The Emperor’s New Laptop". "At the very least, the author suggests that his school’s study should send up caution flags when considering the benefits that laptop supporters promote."

"Web-based high school to go nationwide" written by Karen Thomas, published in USA Today on Wednesday, October 25, 2000.  Web high school plans nationwide courses, conducting classes in realtime using chat and instant messaging technologies, with plans to offer online courses nationwide.  An Update to "One school's quantum leap".

"Classes sit pretty with new laptops" written by Roselyn Tantraphol, published in Mass Live on Thursday, October 19, 2000.  "Brunton Elementary School in Brunton, Massachusetts is the city's first, and so far only, laptop school. It has been advertised as the place where every student from kindergarten through the fifth grade has use of a laptop for school and home."

"Massachusetts May Require All Public College Students to Own Computers" written by Florence Olsen, published in The Chronicle of Higher Education on Wednesday, October 18, 2000.  "Massachusetts will move ahead with a plan requiring all public-college students to own laptop computers as soon as three years from now, the state's Board of Higher Education decided unanimously on Tuesday. But a way of paying for the plan remains to be worked out."  See the original plan, in PDF format here: Choosing to Compete in the New Economy.  Also see "Plan for colleges would provide laptops" published in the Boston Herald, and "Mass. colleges mull laptop requirements" published in USA Today.

"Universities Find Wireless Systems Bring Them Convenience and Savings" written by Scott Carlson, published on Wednesday, October 11, 2000 in The Chronicle of Higher Education.  Students download their e-mail as they walk, computer classes and laboratories can meet outside on the grass, and for older buildings it may cost only a fifth of what an institution would spend on standard hookups, thanks to wireless technology.

"Plan Gives Computers to Teachers" written by Rebecca Weiner, published on Wednesday, October 11, 2000 in The New York Times.  Michigan is exploring a new approach to putting technology to work in education by equipping nearly all of the state's teachers, rather than just students or computer labs, with laptops or desktop computers.

"Consumer groups say 'digital divide' puts millions in U.S. at a disadvantage", Wednesday, October 11, 2000 from CNN.com.  Nearly half of those who responded to a recent nationwide survey said they do not have access to the Internet at home.  Of those who are "disconnected," more than half said they don't have a clue what the Internet is or how it could help them.  Forty percent said they do not intend to get connected in the next four years.

"SUNY's Morrisville Campus Sees Wireless Computing as a Way to Create a Niche" written by Jeffrey Young, published in The Chronicle of Higher Education on Tuesday, October 10, 2000.  State University of New York's College of Agriculture and Technology at Morrisville has a wireless network that blankets the campus.

"The Wireless Revolution" written by Florence Olsen, published in The Chronicle of Higher Education on Monday, October 9, 2000.  Dozens of colleges set up their first wireless networks, giving students and faculty members who have laptop computers the ability to connect to the college network and the Internet from anywhere on campus.

"Questions on Wired Schools" written by Bonnie Morris, published on Thursday, October 2, 2000 in The New York Times.  Seven days into the school year, the children in Jen Butler's fifth-grade language arts class in Viola Elementary School in Suffern, N.Y. could not contain their excitement about their new wireless notebook computers.

"New study: Technology boosts student performance" written by Cara Branigan, published in eSchool News on October 4, 2000.  For advocates of classroom technology, a new study linking technology with student achievement provides welcome news: The use of educational technology in Illinois public schools has had "a small but significant impact" on student performance, according to a statistical analysis.

"Michigan to buy 91,000 computers for educators" written October 2, 2000 by eSchool News staff.  In what might be the largest initiative of its kind, Michigan is buying 91,000 computers for its public school educators, and officials say deliveries will begin by year’s end.  An Update to "Cyber schools: Engler's proposal to supply computers raises questions about training the users".

"Laptops in Education" last revised on October 1, 2000.  A list of educational laptop links compiled by Emerging Technologies.

"NYC portal plan could bring in millions of dollars for technology" by Cara Branigan published in eSchool News on September 26, 2000. The New York City School system is expected to OK plans this week to create a money-making internet portal so it can raise funds to buy more technology for its schools.

"Wired Schools: A technology revolution is about to sweep America's classrooms" by William C. Symonds published on September 25, 2000 in Business Week. A special report on how a number of schools have used technology to make a significant improvement in education.

"Youthline USA Launches $600,000 Landmark Educational Technology Program in East Harlem" by Yahoo Finance on September 21, 2000.  "Youthline USA,  the nation's only multi-media organization offering total integration of news, technology, and curriculum-based online activities, launched a $600,000 pilot program today with the donation of 250 wireless computers with Internet and email access to District 4 in East Harlem."

"Board Betting on Corporate Vision for Laptop Plan" by Edward Wyatt, published on September 21, 2000 in The New York Times.  New York City Board of Education contemplates spending $900 million over 10 years to build an educational Web site and provide portable computers, internet service and e-mail to most of its students, teachers and administrators. Also covered as "NY City School Masterplan To Loan Students Laptops" by Steve Gold published in Newsbytes.

"Digital High Schoolers"  by Edwin Acevedo published in the Syracuse Herald-Journal on September 20, 2000. Laptops were distributed in Liverpool on September 11, 2000. This is the first day that students have brought them back to school since then. This article is no longer available online.

"Laptops part of school initiative" published in the New Haven Register on September 15, 2000. Some 160 fifth-graders at Roberto Clemente Middle School and Troup Magnet Academy of Science will receive laptops under a pilot program sponsored by Empower New Haven and the public school system. "5th-graders eager to learn as they unpack laptops" is the follow-up article by Natalie Missakian on September 16, 2000 that describes the reactions as the machines were delivered. 

"Liverpool district distributes laptops" by Edwin Acevedo published in the Syracuse Herald-Journal on September 11, 2000. 350 students are taking part in the
laptop experiment for 10th graders at the Liverpool High School in Liverpool, N.Y. This article is no longer available online.

"Laptops are no longer a luxury for students.  Schools clear off desktops, shift expense to parents as wired classes become norm"  by Karen Thomas, published in USA Today on August 31, 2000.  Laptop ownership is becoming a requirement at a growing number of private and public high schools.

"Universities experiment with e-textbooks" published in USA Today Tech Report on August 17, 2000.  "Students will have the choice of using the traditional textbook or downloading an electronic version on their laptops...''

"What Does a Freshman Need?" by Stephen H. Wildstrom published in BusinessWeek on August 7, 2000. A Freshman needs a computer and this article discusses the options available.

"IT Happens: Laptops for teachers can liberate learning" by Trevor Shaw published in eSchool News on August 1, 2000. In the author's school they found the combination of laptop computers and wireless networking resulted in computers being used in the curriculum more often.

"Laptops for All Doesn't Mean They're Always Used" by Mary Ann Zehr, published in Education Week on June 7, 2000.  Laptop computers are owned by all 450 students at Mott Hall School in Harlem, NYC but that doesn't mean they are always used.  Teachers can benefit from being trained on how to integrate technology with their curriculum.

"Parents slam laptop-only elective" published in eSchoolNews on May 22, 2000.  When a California school district proposed offering a laptop-only elective not long ago, it quickly got a refresher course in the reality of community resources.

"A Laptop for Every Kid" by Ellin Martens published May 1, 2000 in Time magazine.  More schools are convinced that laptops are worth the cost.

"A Powell-ful view of travel, laptops and learning" by Geoff Powell of Geelong Grammar School in Australia, is a look at three schools in the USA that operate notebook computing programs: Deerfield Academy in Massachusetts, Cincinnati Country Day School in Ohio, and Bulkeley Public in Hartford, Connecticut.  It was published on HotSource in May, 2000.

"N.Y.C. Board To Build Web Portal"  published in Education Week, April 19, 2000.  New York City board of education approves a proposal last week to buy laptop computers for students.

"School laptop computer program clicks on financing options" by William Dean published in the Carolina Morning News on April 17, 2000. The Beaufort County Schoolbook Foundation board will look at restructuring bad dept incurred to finance the local laptop computer initiative.

"Laptops in Education"  published on Slashdot, Friday April 14, 2000.  Explores the issues of computer in education and questions whether computers in high school and grade school are helpful or harmful.

"School Board Considers Deal to Swap Ads for Computers" by Edward Wyatt  published in The New York Times on April 7, 2000. A task force of New York school officials and executives of several big computer companies is proposing to distribute laptop computers to city schoolchildren and to create a school Web site that would give the companies advertising space in exchange for services and equipment.

"One school's quantum leap" by Karen Thomas, published in USA Today on April 6, 2000. The Daniel Jenkins Academy, a public school in Florida, will open in September with all  academics taught online.

"A Revolution in Education Clicks Into Place" by Jodi Wilgoren published in The New York Times on March 26, 2000.  Colleges like Wake Forest University are seeing significant changes due to the influence of required laptop computers.

"Cyber school on the horizon" published in BBC News, March 20, 2000.  Britain's first "cyber school" with up to 60 pupils at a time will get connected at the wired academy when it opens its doors for the first time.  Pupils at the electronic school will be able to log on to lessons at the start of the new term, using the internet and multimedia presentations to learn about history, geography and science.

"Linking online kids with real-world ethics" by  M. J. Zuckerman and Will Rodger, published in USA Today on March 16, 2000. There is a need to teach ethics associated with Internet use. The Cincinnati Country Day School, a laptop school, is cited as an example of how this is done.

"A Laptop in Every Schoolbag" by Kendra Mayfield published March 4, 2000 in Wired magazine.  Maine Governor Angus King announced a proposal to give every seventh-grader in the state a portable PC.

"Maine's King seeks to give all 7th-graders computers" by published the Boston Globe on March 2, 2000. Maine Governor Angus King, will today propose giving all students in the seventh grade laptop computers to keep as their own. 

"Bookbag of the Future" by Lisa Guernsey published in The New York Times on March 2, 2000.  The story of how dental schools stuff 4 years' worth of manuals and books into 1 DVD.

"Gates Foundation Gives $350 Million to Education Programs Over the Next 3 Years" by Sam Howe Verhovek published in The New York Times on March 1, 2000. The article covers an announcement of grants that  is expected to go to public schools to help teachers enroll in training programs on integrating high technology with the classroom and to assist individual schools and school districts experimenting with new approaches to learning. 

"Turning a Vision into Reality: Mission Possible" by Dewey Carey, Principal, Grovetown Elementary School published in Hot Source, February 2000. The story of how technology is a major part of their proactive approach to school reform. The Grovetown Elementary School has gone from last place to one of the two Distinguished Title One Schools in Georgia.

"Cyber schools: Engler's proposal to supply computers raises questions about training the users" by Tracy Van Moorlehem in the Detroit Free Press published January 28, 2000.  Michigan Gov. John Engler calls for spending $110 million in 2000 and 2001 to equip every Michigan teacher with a laptop and Internet access.

"Push On to Get Home Computers to Poor Students" by Meredith May published in the San Francisco Chronicle on January 18, 2000. Various programs to get computers into the hands of students at home are examined.

"Laptops Change Curriculum -- and Students"  published in Education World on November 8, 1999. Anecdotal evidence is given that the laptop program at the Carmen Arace Middle School in Bloomfield, Connecticut is working well.

"Silicon Venom, A Review of Clifford Stoll's new book" by Jamie McKenzie in the November 1999 issue of  From Now On, The Educational Technology Journal. The author finds the book, "High Tech Heretic: Why Computers Don't Belong in the Classroom and Other Reflections by a Computer Contrarian", to be "disappointing and thin on facts." 

"Can Computers Change the System?" by Ronald Thorpe published in Education Week on October 29, 1999. The author reports that "widespread use of computers by teachers is, in fact, changing the cultures of classrooms and schools--and for the better."

"Computers prompt change in teaching" by Alan J. Borsuk of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel staff published on October 11, 1999. The change is for the better where "the success of the program clearly lies as much with teachers who approach what goes on in the class with drive and creativity."

"Catholic school wins grant to buy laptop computers" published in the Northwest Briefing section of the Seattle Post-Intelligencer on Sept. 30, 1999. Emerald Heights Academy has received a $37,600 gift from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation to buy 15 laptop computers.

"School board pulls the plug on district’s laptop plan: ‘Eleventh-hour’ reversal of technology plan catches school management off guard, leaves opening of new facility in question" published in eSchool News on August 1, 1999. The Kanawha County, West Virginia, school board killed a plan to give every teacher at the district’s new Riverside High School a laptop computer.

"As more girls lace up cleats, boys boot up laptops" by Alexander Lane, published in The Star-Ledger on July 5, 1999.  "As girls race into the gym and onto playing fields in ever-greater numbers, many boys are spending more time booting computers than footballs."

"Lap of Luxury: School laptop programs raise issues of equity" by Lawrence Hardy published in Electronic School in the March, 1999 issue. The article visits a number of public school districts where laptop computer programs are in place. In all of them, the question of funding the purchase of the computers is a serious issue.

 "The Laptop College" published in the Spring 1999 issue of Learning Technologies Report. The issue covers the experiences and the lessons learned with laptop programs at 9 universities and 8 colleges in Canada and the United States.

"The Results Are In, ThinkPad Universities assess their first 'connected' years" by Robert S. Benchley published in the Spring 1999 issue of Multiversity. The article is a report on the more than 30 laptop programs in universities with an assessment of their first few years in this program. Requires Adobe Acrobat reader.

"Laptop Comfort Zones" from the House& Home section of The New York Times published February 11, 1999. The article covers how to use your laptop computer and avoid  injuries caused by poor posture and repetitive stress.

"Children Risk Computer Injuries, Study Warns" by Pamela Mendels published in The New York Times on January 16, 1999. It is important to have the right equipment and to teach proper posture and study habits to avoid injuries.

"Laptops boost learning, study says" published in the E-Wire column of Electronic School in the January, 1999 issue. The article summarizes information from the Rockman report on laptop usage.

"Textbooks Shifting From Printed Page to Screen" by Ethan Bronner published in The New York Times on December 8, 1998. This article covers the beginning of the shift from printed books to books read via computer.

"Parents question district's voluntary laptop program: New study shows laptop computers can aid learning, but families and community foundations are scrambling to find means to get them in the hands of all students" published in eSchool News on December 1, 1998.

"Laptops replace bookbags.(in Beaufort County, SC)" by David Rockwell published in Communications News, December 1998. The article describes the laptop computer program in Beaufort, County, S.C. including its wireless network.

"Laptops helping end educational inertia in Appalachian town" published November 30, 1998 in Globetechnology.com.  Every middle-school pupil carries a laptop computer to class in Hiawassee, Georgia, and educators are finding that their cyberliteracy is rubbing off on parents in a community where 37 per cent of the adults dropped out of high school.  When their children aren't using the computers for homework or book reports, the parents are learning to type, use spreadsheets and surf the Internet to discover the world beyond the Appalachians.

"Students, families find an education in personal laptops" by Amy Frazier published in the Nando Times on November 28, 1998. A laptop program funded by grants in Georgia's Towns County is described.

"Laptops may soon become standard for students" by Tamara Audi, published November 27, 1998 in the Detroit Free Press.  "Walled Lake Consolidated Schools is considering a plan to strap portable computers to the backs of its fifth- and sixth-graders so students can have constant access to them.  Parents could pay for the computers through three-year leases that would include insurance for damage or loss."

"School Laptop Program Raises Concerns About Equal Access" by Pamela Mendels published in The New York Times on November 25, 1998. The Laptop computer program in  Beaufort County, S.C helps the poorest students purchase laptop computers with assistance. Does this create equal access?

"Laptop Use Shows Increases In Student Learning" Study sponsored by Microsoft and Toshiba on educational laptop programs.

"New Study Reveals Learning Improves When Students Have Full-Time Access to Laptops" dated November 10, 1998 and "Independent Research Results Support Educator and Parent Enthusiasm for Student Use of Laptop Computers to Learn Anytime, Anywhere" dated   November 9, 1998 are a press releases from Microsoft . These press releases site the 1998 update to the  Rockman report that tells of continued positive results from the use of laptop computers in schools.

"The Link to Higher Scores" by Jeff Archer published in the Technology Counts special edition of Education Week on October 1, 1998. The article gives a summary of the findings by Harold Wenglinsky published by ETS in "Does It Compute? The Relationship Between Educational Technology and Student Achievement in Mathematics" that "Computers can raise student achievement and even improve a school's climate."

"Laptops and Learning, Can laptop computers put the "C" (for constructionism) in Learning?" by Gary S. Stager published in the October 1998 issue of Curriculum Administrator.  The author reports on the positive effects of laptop computers at the Methodist Ladies' College, in Melbourne, Australia.

"Computers boost kids' test scores" by May Lee published in CNN Interactive on September 29, 1998. The article reports on a new study by Educational Testing Service that found that computers boosted standardized math scores among fourth- and eighth-graders.

"Snohomish district teacher wins Milken prize" by Tamra Fitzpatrick published September 25, 1998  in The Seattle Times. Kelly Starr of the Emerson Elementary School receives the Milken Family Foundation National Educator Award.

"Prep school requires laptops for all" by Miguel Llanos published September 16, 1998 on MSNBC. The article reports on the Peddie School in New Jersey where every student is given a laptop computer.

"The Laptop Fallacy" by Jamie McKenzie in the September 1998 issue of  From Now On, The Educational Technology Journal. The author argues that technology alone will not solve educational problems. He suggests that "strategic teaching" is the critical element.

"Mobile PC Units Becoming More Prevalent" by Helen S. Andrade, published in IT Matters on June 22, 1998.  "Could the desktop computers go the way of the dinosaurs?  Maybe not in the next few years but with the way notebook computers are fast matching the price and performance of the desktop PCs, it is not hard to imagine why people would not rather go for mobile computing."

"Laptops, not books, in schools?" is the title of a news piece published June 10, 1998 on MSNBC that reported that House Speaker Newt Gingrich and the chairman of Texas’ board of education, among others, are in favor of replacing school books with laptop computers. The site included a video of a debate on the subject. This article is no longer online.

"Lessons on Laptops" by Michael Stoll published in the Christian Science Monitor on June 9, 1998.The article covers a number of laptop programs at public schools as well as comments by various experts on the value of these programs, both positive and negative. This article was also covered in the Nando Times.

"Clinton Urges 'Technology Literacy' for Middle Schoolers" by James Bennet published in The New York Times on June 6, 1998. In his speech at the MIT graduation address, President Clinton announced he would seek $180 million in next year's budget to train teachers in states that adopt a requirement for technology literacy. The President's complete address can be viewed at MIT.  You can skip forward to 1:49:00 into the RealVideo stream to start at the beginning of his remarks. The President's speech was also covered by the Boston Globe.

"School board delays projects as NetSchools yet to deliver on computers" by Laura Lavezzo published in Forsyth County News on May 27, 1998.  The school was supposed to receive the laptops from the NetSchools Corporation by Thanksgiving 1997. Since then, the project has been delayed several times again. At this point, the school board is growing weary of the wait, and is discussing the implementation of a laptop program at NFMS for the 1998-99 school year with our without NetSchools.

"Texas Weighs Value of Laptops vs. Textbooks" by Pamela Mendels published in The New York Times on May 20, 1998. The state of Texas is considering taking it's billion-dollar-plus textbook budget and using it to buy laptop computers for students instead of textbooks. A free registration is required for access to the New York Times.

"Private School Touts Classroom Of The Future" By Mo Krochmal published in TechWEB News on May 3, 1998. Students in grades 7 through 11 at Southern New Jersey College Preparatory School, a small private school in Mays Landing, N.J., get a laptop when they pay their tuition.

"Portable price breaks: You can take it with you: Handheld and laptop machines just got cheaper, smaller, and more attractive to schools" publishedin the May 1998 issue of eSchoolNews.Com . The article is an overview of the current options available for mobile computing programs in schools.

"A Mandate to Force Computer Expertise" by Pamela Mercer  published in The New York Times on April 29, 1998. Usage of Netschools laptop computers with the Internet at the North Broward Preparatory school is described.

"Laptops: a learning experience" by Dionne Searcey published in the Seattle Times on April 17, 1998. A report on the progress with laptop computers in area schools. They find "exciting results, mixed in with frustrating problems."

"Campuses Are Turning to Laptops for Students" by Tina Kelley published in The New York Times on April 16, 1998. The article compares the laptop policies of a number of colleges.

"Despite a Laptop's Demise, Schools Remain Committed" by By Lisa Napoli  published in  The New York Times on March 20, 1998. This article covers schools' reactions to the announcement that Apple will no longer manufacture the eMate computer. A free registration is required for access.

"Gates Plays to Friendlier Audience at Manhattan School" by Pamela Mendels published in  The New York Times on March 4, 1998. Bill Gates visited Mott Hall, one the the schools with a laptop computer saturation program in New York City after testifying before the Senate. Another article, with less details about the laptop program was published in the Times on March 5, 1998, titled "Gates Visits a Carefully Prepared 6th-Grade Classroom."   You can also view the Microsoft press release about this event. Time published Bill Gate's diary for the day.

Learning By Laptop by Romesh Ratnesar published in Time Magazine on March 2, 1998. The article is an excellent overview covering a number of laptop schools and the discussion of the merits of bringing laptop computers to schools.

"Texas eyes laptop-for-textbook swap: $1.8 billion worth of computers could replace books for 4 million students" published in eSchool News.com in March, 1998. The president of the state board of education in Texas, Jack Christie, wants to divert funds from the textbook fund to buy a laptop computer for every student in the state.

"SPECIAL REPORT: Anytime, Anywhere Learning with Laptops: Results from a Microsoft/Toshiba Pilot Prog" published in the March 1998 issue of  T.H.E. Journal. The article gives a summary of the Rockman report on the usage of laptop computers in schools.

"... With Liberty and Laptops for All?" by Mike Romano published in the The New York Times on February 26, 1998. An article describing the "Learning with Laptops" program for schools sponsored by Microsoft, AT&T, Toshiba, Acer and Compaq.

"San Pasqual district proposing laptops for all its sixth-graders" by Anna Cearley published in the San Diego Union-Tribune on February 28, 1998.  The article covers the plans to join the Toshiba-Microsoft program with parents purchasing or leasing laptop computers.

"Univ North Carolina Makes Laptops Compulsory" by Sami Menefee published in Newsbytes on February 17, 1998. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill became the third campus in the state to require that all freshmen have their own laptop computer.

"Teacher's new pet isn't a brownie... it's a laptop" by Miguel Llanos published in ZDNet about the 1998 Anytime, Anywhere Learning Summit.

"Laptop Computers for Every Student!" published online in Education World on January 19, 1998. In depth coverage of the use of laptop computers by seventh and eighth graders at the Kent Center School in Connecticut.

"Teaching Conference Questions Fundamental Role of Computers" by Pamela Mendels, published in The New York Times on December 5, 1997. The article covers a conference at Columbia University's Teachers College called "The Computer in Education: Seeking the Human Essentials."

"‘Every opportunity’ offered those wishing to purchase a laptop" by Joyce Moran, published in the Morrison County Record on  December 4, 1997. The article describes use of Apple eMate laptop computers in fifth grade classes.

"Connecting With the Future" by Jo Cavallo published in PC World and Family Circle, November 1997. Laptop computers are making a significant difference at the Mott Hall School in New York City's Harlem Neighborhood. They are being used to fulfill President Clinton's call for a computer for every student and for connecting to the Internet.

"More Than 20,000 Students and Teachers Nationwide Use Laptops to Learn Anytime Anywhere" is the title of a Microsoft Press release from November 3, 1997. This was written to announce the 1998 Anytime, Anywhere Learning conference and the release of the Rockman report on the use of Laptop computers sponsored by Microsoft and Toshiba.

"Assessing the Notebook Initiative" by Kathryn Holleque and G. Phillip Cartwright published in Change, November/December 1997. Vol. 29, No. 6, pp. 10-12. This column  recounts the results of the first year of a notebook program undertaken in 1996 by two public colleges in North Dakota.

"A Laptop on Every Desktop" by Gloria A. Hoffner, published in The Philadelphia Inquirer on October 15, 1997. The story covers plans to join the Anytime, Anywhere Learning program by three Philadelphia area schools. They are starting by getting laptop computers for teachers that will be involved in the program. This article is no longer available online.

"Laptop use develops in classrooms" by Sally Westfall published in the Morrison County Record on  October 10, 1997. The article describes the use of Apple eMate laptop computers in the Little Falls, Mn school system.

"Texas Chairman Touts Laptops In Lieu of Textbooks" by Linda Jacobson published in Education Week on September 24, 1997. The state of Texas is considering giving every student a laptop computer so that they can use textbooks on CD-ROM instead of paper. This is also covered as "Texas school board chief says laptops for kids could be cheaper than textbooks" published September 13, 1997 in the Fort Worth Star-Telegram and on September 12, 1997 as "Laptops eyed as schoolbook replacements" in the Houston Chronicle (requires free registration). "The future calls; will kids be ready?' is an editorial on this subject by Thom Marshall published September 17, 1997 in the Houston Chronicle. To see students' reactions to this story, see the Talking Back section of the Houston Chronicle on October 16, 1997.

"Learning by Laptop Program Grows at Area High Schools" by Karen Maeshiro published in the Los Angeles Daily News on September 22, 1997. This is an article about the laptop program at the Antelope Valley High School.

"NCATE Told To Emphasize Technology", by Ann Bradley published in Education Week on September 17, 1997. The article reports that this teacher's organization warns its members that technology "needs to be incorporated across the entire teacher education program."

"Schools take part in laptop pilot program" was published September 3, 1997 in USA Today telling the story of two Michigan school districts that are joining the Anytime, Anywhere Learning program.

"Small computers, small hands" by Carol Ellison published in TechWEB News on September 1, 1997. The article describes the Apple eMate and the NetSchools StudyPro.

"Laptops are required at medical school" by By Pavi Sandhu published in the Raleigh, North Carolina News & Observer on August 15, 1997. Incoming students at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill medical school are required to purchase a laptop computer. At least one course at the school is taught entirely online.

"Computers Have Little Use Without Teacher Training, Study Says", by Millicent Lawton published in Education Week on July 9, 1997. A review of a study by the Benton Foundation, "The Learning Connection: Schools in the Information Age."

"Schools Want Laptops for All, But Parents Pick Up the Bill" by Pamela Mendels published in The New York Times July 6, 1997. Descriptions of the laptop programs at the private Trevor Day School and public Mott Hall, both in New York City.

"Toshiba and Microsoft team up to give notebooks to school children" by Carol Levin published in PC Magazine on July 1, 1997. Coverage of the Anytime, Anywhere Learning project sponsored by Microsoft and Toshiba.

"The Computer Delusion" by Todd Oppenheimer published in the Atlantic Monthly on July 1997 is a rather negative view on the value of computers as they have been used in schools so far.

"Three Years and Eight Days" by G. Phillip Cartwright published in Change July/August 1997. Vol. 29, No. 4, pp. 52-54. The story of how two Georgia colleges decided to issue laptop computers for all incoming freshmen.

"High Tech Sales Goals Fuel Reach Into Schools" by  Leslie Helm published in the L.A. Times on June 9, 1997. One of a series of articles questioning the value of the use of computers in schools.

"Technology Remains Promise, not Panacea" by Lucille Renwick published in the L.A. Times on June 8, 1997. Another article in the series questioning the value of the use of computers in schools.

"Schools Plug In to Technology Trend: Student Laptops" by Andrew Trotter published in Education Week on June 18, 1997. Coverage of the Microsoft/Toshiba initiative to put laptop computers in the hands of students.

"Study Finds Big Computer Gap in Schools", by Pamela Mendels published in The New York Times on May 31, 1997. The article gives a synopsis of the report "Computers and Classrooms: The Status of Technology in U.S. Schools." A free registration is required for access.

"Apple eMate makes the grade" was published Monday, May 26, 1997, in the Pioneer Press. The article describes the Apple eMate and the fact that the Little Falls, Minn., school district purchased 300 of them.

"Inequities in Access to Technology Documented" is an article by Andrew Trotter published in Education Week on May 21 1997. This article covers a report by the Educational Testing Service. It found that "Students at schools with high proportions of poor and minority students have less access to technology than other students do."

High-Tech Schools and Low-Tech Teaching by Larry Cuban published in Education Week on May 21 1997. The author states that the current use of computers insufficient. He says, "What has to be done is provide teachers with wired classrooms and machines, give them assistance in selecting and using software, and maintain the equipment."

"Computer in a backpack: Once the expensive toys of business executives, laptops are growing presence in the classroom" by Katherine Long published in The Seattle Times on May 20, 1997. Coverage is given to a number of schools in the Seattle area that are using laptop computers.

"Poor, Minority Students Lack Access to Computers" by Rene Sanchez published May 15 1997 in The Washington Post. Coverage of an Educational Testing service report. "The nation's poor and minority students have significantly less access to computers in their classrooms than do more affluent children." This article is no longer available online.

"Laptops Change the Teaching Model at Wake Forest" by Chris Burritt published in the Computer News Daily on May 15, 1997. This article describes the nine months of experience since students were required to have laptop computers at Wake Forest University.

Business Week of May 5, 1997 includes "A Notebook For Every Student?", which is coverage of the initiative by Microsoft and Toshiba to help schools create laptop saturation projects. It also included coverage of the now discontinued Apple eMate in "Apple Gets an A.'

Microsoft Announces Anytime, Anywhere Learning on April 23, 1997. NoteSys, Inc., formerly Academic Notebook Systems, was proud to be supporting a number of schools that were participating in this program.

The Baltimore Sun published "Laptop computers to replace notepads at Oldfields School" on April 4, 1997. This article by Mary Maushard describes the use of laptop computers at a private school outside of Baltimore.

"R.I. Teachers To Get Free Laptop Computers" by Jeff Archer published in Education Week on April 2, 1997. Every teacher in Rhode Island will get a laptop computer paid for by a gift from the Rhode Island Foundation.

"Study shows home computing can provide an educational edge" is a news release published March 27, 1997 by Compaq in Australia.

There was coverage of the Kent Center School in  The New York Times  on March 26, 1997 in an article titled "Connecticut Town Buys Laptops for Entire 7th Grade." It describes the laptop saturation program at a public middle school in Kent, Connecticut. The Kent Center School is a customer of Academic Notebook Systems. Access to the New York Times online is limited to subscribers. Currently, a subscription to the online service is free.

"School laptops not pencils" published in Ethos on October 24, 1996. This article describes the usage of AlphaSmart Pro keyboards for word processing at Anderson Middle School. This article is no longer available online.

"Students toting a new book: notebook computer" by Alexei Barrionuevo in The Dallas Morning News on Oct. 10, 1996. Usage of laptop computers at two Dallas area schools is described.

"Schools give notebooks the old college try; Campuses are instructed to replace desktops". Computerworld, September 9, 1996 P20. Author Mindy Blodgett. Abstract: The use of laptop computers at various colleges is described.

Seattle's Meany Middle School is a magnet school that has plans to provide a laptop computer for every student. The plans are described in the Seattle Times on Sept. 5, 1996 in "Doors open today on Stanford's big experiment" by Dick Lilly.

"Each San Luis Coastal teacher to receive a laptop computer" by Susan McDonald published in the San Luis Obispo County Telegram-Tribune published Sep 5, 1996. The article says that they will be purchasing 20 laptop computers for their teachers. No mention is made of student use of laptop computers.

"Laptops: learning tool or lap of luxury?" by E.J. Gong Jr. is the lead article in a series from the The Seattle Times published Sep 3, 1996. It describes how four Puget Sound-area districts are using Laptop computers.

"Teaching Technology" published by Time Magazine, Summer 1996 covers the use of technology in the classroom including how some laptop computers are being "plugged in."

In May 1996, Mayor Walter D. Long of Summit, New Jersey announced his city's plan to provide personal laptop computers for all of Summit's high school students and teachers by the year 2001. An article was published May 27, 1996 in the Nando Times about the announcement.

"District's Laptop 'Plan' Is Idea Whose Time Has Not Come" by Peter West published in Education Week on May 22, 1996. A plan to have six graders use laptop computers in school was shot down by opponents in Fairfax, Virginia.

"Keyboard Debate" is a transcript of a debate on PBS between Clifford Stoll and Damon Moore moderated by Elizabeth Farnsworth. The debate was held December 27, 1995 and was presented on Strictly Business and is available via The Online NewsHour.

The cover story of Byte Magazine, March 1995 includes an article covering the computer use at The Peddie School in Hightstown, New Jersey.

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