LEARNING CENTERS

Online Schools ensures that all schools have effective access to the communications and information resources of the Internet. Online Schools has developed guidelines for cost-effective Internet Learning Centers with reliable access to the Internet. In creating these guidelines, Online Schools considered various elements such as Internet connectivity, computer availability, acquisition costs, scalability, technical support, and educational tools.

An internet learning centers are made up of a network of ten high-speed, Pentium-class computers with color monitors, two printers, a scanner and a digital still camera. Software included word processing, presentation, spreadsheet, antivirus, web publishing, and image editing applications.

Online Schools suggests a variety of ways to access the Internet, including dial-up, leased-line, and wireless.
The Project Coordinator should create partnerships with a local Internet Service Provider (ISP) and local
technology distributors to support reliable, and sustainable Internet access.

In locations where high bandwidth is available, leased-line access would be appropriate. Regions that are more
rural, but maintain telephone lines should use dial-up access. Remote regions and areas without reliable
telephone access should investigate the feasibility of wireless Internet access. Internet speed should be in the
range from 28K to 128K. The Internet should be available for use during the school day for a minimum of eight
hours.