PITT RECEIVES MORE THAN ONE MILLION DOLLAR FEDERAL GRANT TO TECHNOLOGICALLY PREPARE TOMORROW'S TEACHERS

PITTSBURGH, July 14 -- For the second year in a row, the University of Pittsburgh School of Education has received a "Preparing Tomorrow's Teachers to Use Technology" grant from the U.S. Department of Education, as announced by President Clinton.

The first grant enabled implementation and testing of a technology integration model designed to meet the goals of the grant. The second grant of approximately $1,159,000 provides an opportunity to implement that model over a much broader group of schools, including 29 schools from seven districts over a period of three years.

Shirley Campbell, research associate and director of Pitt's Computer and Curriculum Inquiry Center (CCIC), is coordinating the project. Her co-directors are Barbara Seals, professor in Instructional Design and Technology, and Valerie Talsma, professor in Instruction and Learning. Campbell also maintains the CCIC, teaches classes with technology integration for preservice teachers, offers opportunities in technology for inservice teachers, and helps faculty become more technology proficient.

Apple Computer and Marconi Communication Systems are Pitt's business partners in the venture, along with Allegheny Schools Science Education and Technology (ASSET) and Pittsburgh Regional Center for Science Teachers (PRCST).

Pitt was one of 122 organizations across the country to earn the award. The grantees are joining forces with more than 900 partners throughout the U.S., including colleges and universities, elementary and secondary schools, community-based organizations, and technology companies.

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