Accessible IT Frequently Asked Questions

Since 1997, Education Week has published an annual 50-state report on how U.S. middle and high schools are utilizing technology. The free online report is titled Technology Counts, and provides extensive summary information as well as state-by-state data about the level of access to technology, capacity to use technology, and actual use of technology.

Within these broad categories, the report tracks such information as the number of students per computer, location of computers, level of Internet connectivity, amount of technology training that teachers receive, the presence of a technology plan or technology standards, the percent of teachers using computers for planning, the percent of students using computers for learning, and specifics regarding how computers are being used by academic subject.

As would be expected, the report evolves somewhat each year to address evolving trends. For example, the 2002 report was the first to assess the prevalence of distance learning in schools (it found that 25 states allow for the creation of so-called cyber charter schools, and 32 states were sponsoring e-learning initiatives, include online testing programs, virtual schools, and Internet-based professional development). The 2003 report placed a strong emphasis on computer-based assessment, and the overall effects of the No Child Left Behind Act on technology in schools. The 2003 report also was the first to assess the prevalence of handheld computer use for students (3% of schools) and teachers (7% of schools), and of laptop lending programs (18% of schools).

As growing numbers of educational entities embrace educational technology, it is critical that the accessibility of these programs be addressed. Technology should enhance the learning experiences of all students and serve as an equalizer rather than a barrier to students with disabilities.