Intel Launches Teacher Training Program in Canada

The 14th Conference of Commonwealth Education Ministers marked a significant milestone in Canada as Intel Corporation announced the launch of the Intel(R) Teach to the Future program. This program, part of a worldwide initiative, aims to address the barriers teachers face in effectively applying computer technology to improve student learning. Intel's vice president, Carlene Ellis, announced the expansion of the teacher training program to Canada, with a goal of training 18,000 teachers over the next three years.

Key Takeaways:

• The Intel Teach to the Future program is a worldwide initiative to train 400,000 classroom teachers in 20 countries, with a focus on improving student learning through effective computer technology use.
• Intel will invest Cnd$1.5 million in the program over three years, with Microsoft Canada contributing Cnd$8.8 million in software and support.
• The program will train 18,000 teachers in Canada, part of a global effort to train 400,000 teachers worldwide.
• Each master teacher will be provided with a laptop computer and CD burner, with classroom teachers and master teachers receiving a free copy of Microsoft Office 2000 Professional and Microsoft Encarta Encyclopedia 2000.
• The program is modeled after the award-winning Intel ACE curriculum, with 84% of US teachers reporting improved instruction and 80% reporting enhanced student learning after participating in the program.
• The curriculum consists of 10 four-hour modules, including the use of the Internet, Web page design, and multimedia software.
• Intel Canada and Education will support the program, which is part of the Intel Innovation in Education initiative, a global, multimillion-dollar effort to prepare teachers and students for tomorrow's demands.

Statistics:

• 18,000 teachers will be trained in Canada over the next three years.
• Intel will invest US$100 million in cash, equipment, curriculum development, and program management to train more than 400,000 classroom teachers in 20 countries worldwide.
• Microsoft will contribute US$344 million in software (estimated retail value) and program support.
• 84% of US teachers reported improved instruction after participating in the Intel ACE curriculum.
• 80% of US teachers reported enhanced student learning after participating in the Intel ACE curriculum.

Sources:

• Canada NewsWire via COMTEX
• Intel Corporation
• Microsoft Canada
• Knowledge House Inc.