First set of articles.

U.S. schools lag behind in use of technology
http://www.usatoday.com/tech/news/2005-01-07-schools-lag-in-tech_x.htm
My “WOW” moment for this article was when I learned that the largest group of new internet users is 2-5 year olds. I found this amazing; it seems awfully young to me. I guess that it is better to get them familiar with technology at an early age that way they don’t feel uncomfortable using it later on.

Students Using Technology To Achieve Reading – Writing (STAR-W)
http://www.ed.gov/about/offices/list/os/technology/plan/2004/site/edlite-default.html
I found that there is a system called SchoolNet that allows teachers to monitor and review testing and student’s performance all in one spot. I learned that through the use of this system there have been enhancements in the product and more unity between the professional communities. I like that fact that this system has the ability to help solve issues with students and faculty alike.

National Educational Technology Standards for Students: The Next Generation
http://cnets.iste.org/
This site had an abundance of information regarding the national standards for technology in preK-12 classes. Since technology has become a part of everyday life, I feel that it is important to have standards like these in place. Each of these standards should be reached by every class to ensure that the students will have success with technology in the future.

Adopt and Adapt
http://www.edutopia.org/adopt-and-adapt
This article was an eye-opener. I had never realized the steps that school systems went through. I really liked the idea that Angus King stated, “I suggest that every lesson plan, every class, every school, every school district, and every state ought to try something new and report to all of us what works and what doesn’t; after all, we do have the internet.” I feel that communication between students, teachers and communities throughout the world could help school systems become a more enhanced and better prepared for the integration of new technologies.