Intel Teach aids teachers

Microchip manufacturer Intel has rolled out a programme called Intel Teach which helps teachers enhance learning through technology, reports AZCentral.

The programme helps the Arizona Department of Education create a core group of trainers, who in turn instruct other teachers in technology and methods. Intel has provided the initial training, ongoing updated curriculum and funding as well as consulting.

Earlier training was in software such as Word and Excel. Now the focus is on blogs, podcasting, wikis and using Web 2.0 tools.

When the Federal Communications Commission presents its national broadband plan to the US Congress next week, it will outline several proposals to drive online learning and boost digital literacy among children, including a concerted effort to address Internet safety, writes Enterprise Networking Planet.

"If you're a parent who thinks change is scary, the digital revolution can be like The Shining," warns FCC chairman Julius Genachowski. "Parents are asking themselves whether they should be embracing new technologies or worrying about them. The answer is we have to do both."

As part of the FCC's efforts in broadband and child safety, Genachowski says he has been working with the chairman of the Federal Trade Commission and the Secretary of Education. The proposed broadband plan will advocate the formation of an interagency government task force to promote digital literacy and safe computing.

McKinley High School has rolled out a course called music technology, which is so new there are no textbooks for it, states CantonRep.

Most of the instruction comes from online resources. In this course, students learn how to make music without an instrument.

Teacher Brian Laakso says music technology engages today's students to create, share and appreciate music made via technology. His students have made music videos, their own cellphone ringtones, and they've used drum-beat machines.