Welcome to the Technology in Afterschool Programs Special Interest Group (SIGTAP)

Happy New Year !!
2009 brings this brand new SIG sponsored by ISTE. My hope is that we can create a collaboration to generate ideas and strategies to bring more quality technology activities into afterschool programs. Perhaps you attended one of the NECC 2008 Afterschool presentations in San Antonio this past June? If so, maybe I met you !!

FYI - Here is the "justification" statement for this SIG.
Afterschool programs function in most high-need public schools across the US. Research shows that high-need students use technology in school settings more often than non-high-need students as they frequently don’t have access in their home environment. However, observations show that in many school-based afterschool programs, technology activities consist of using computers primarily for homework and research. This situation offer opportunities for introducing more technology-enriched activities in afterschool programs. By bringing the technology resources of day school together with the need of the afterschool programs, a truly enriching environment could be created. This SIG will bring together educators who wish to develop effective means for integrating technology into after-school programs.

Let me know your ideas and how we can make the most of this SIG !!

Regards,
Marilyn Heath

Contact: Marilyn Heath
Email: marilyn.heath@me.com