A bill (S.1650) aimed at narrowing the technology gap between colleges that serve minority students and those that serve mostly white students was passed by the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation on Wednesday. The bill, the Max Cleland Minority Serving Institution Digital and Wireless Technology Opportunity Act, would provide funds for computer hardware, software, and network upgrades at colleges that serve black, Hispanic, and American Indian students.
The legislation authorizes $250-million a year from 2008 through 2012. Institutions receiving the funds would be required to provide a 25-percent matching contribution or $500,000, whichever is less.
The bill would also establish an Office of Minority-Serving Institution Digital and Wireless Technology within the National Science Foundation. The organization has in the past voiced opposition to such an office.
Similar bills have stalled in Congress before, and the prospects of this legislation are unclear. –Andrea L. Foster
Developing online and blended learning programs requires research and collaboration. Learn how top technology companies are partnering with campuses across the country to advance online learning as it becomes an increasingly important aspect of higher education.