Introduction
Technological advances in media, communications and computing offer new opportunities for creating dynamic and interactive instruction that can be widely distributed.
The EnterTech Project training program will use interactive computer-based training modules in combination with the personal contact and support of a classroom instructor.
To ensure the training program is developed in a format compatible with the computer hardware, software and networking technologies most likely to be in use by Texas education entities in year 2000, the EnterTech Project team researched current delivery platforms and emerging technology trends for the state.
The primary inquiries and results were provided through a subcontract with Baylor University. Drs. Corey Carbonara and Michael Korpi conducted the research efforts, including data gathering, analysis, and expert-opinion interviews.
This report relies greatly on their research and analysis regarding the design and delivery technologies to be used in the EnterTech Project. Interactive Architecture, the multimedia production subcontractor for the project, also provided expertise to the technology choices scenarios.
Additionally, the EnterTech Project coalition membership reviewed the research and made comments that were incorporated into the final recommendations. Dr. Ron Brey, Vice President of Open Campus at Austin Community College, also provided scholarly review of the recommendations.
Methodology
The main tasks for completing this report included:
- Research, identify, and analyze current and emerging instructional technologies;
- Survey the Texas technology infrastructure relevant to delivering the EnterTech curriculum; and
- Determine recommendations for the appropriate platforms to deliver the EnterTech Project training program.
To better illustrate recommendations, the Baylor University team included a Tech Scenario 2000 section describing the likely options and configurations available at the time of the EnterTech Project program release.
The report concludes with the technical specifications for the design and delivery of the EnterTech Project training program.