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ERIC Number: ED289479
Record Type: Non-Journal
Publication Date: 1985-Nov
Pages: 18
Abstractor: N/A
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: N/A
EISSN: N/A
Integrating Computers into Michigan Education.
Lentz, Linda P.
Computer use in Michigan schools has evolved in three stages over the past decade. In the first, computers were new and few, and professional development was typically self-initiated. The Michigan Association of Computer Users in Learning (MACUL) was formed at this time to provide resources to local districts which they were unable to provide individually and increase communication among computer users. During the second stage, more computers were brought into the schools and concerns about hardware selection and software availability increased. The WE CAN (Wholesome, Effective Computer Applications Network) was established in 1981 to facilitate the purchase of hardware and software at discount prices by local schools. Both MACUL and WE CAN initiated annual conferences which are a continuing part of the statewide program. The current stage began in 1984 when computers were found in most schools in Michigan, and a statewide plan for the integration of computers in education was implemented which provided funding for five training/software centers and the development of a comprehensive training package for teachers' professional development. The Microcomputer Network Committee was also established to coordinate computer projects. The major concerns currently are professional development to provide teachers with the skills they need to use computers effectively, and the integration of computers into the curriculum rather than teaching computer literacy as a separate course. The need for continuing increased funding for professional development, updating the software collection, and update/maintenance of hardware is noted. A diagram of the Michigan model for integrating computers in education is included. (RP)
Publication Type: Reports - Descriptive; Speeches/Meeting Papers
Education Level: N/A
Audience: Practitioners
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: Michigan
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A