Microsoft grant to aid in teacher training for education college

A donation of computer software is providing Mississippi State new ways to offer technology training to the state's K-12 teachers.

Approximately $30,000 in software donated by Microsoft Corp. is allowing the university to become part of a national consortium of technology training centers. The first of a number of day-long workshops for teachers will begin this month.

The center "will tailor training to a teacher's experience level," said Dr. Regina Halpin, assistant professor of curriculum and instruction in the College of Education. She coordinates the effort with Westley DeShazer, director of the college's Instructional Resources Center.

"Our goal is to have teachers in the state using software comfortably and being sure that the resources meet their needs for classroom instruction," Halpin said. There is no charge to teachers.

Workshops, which will be held at least three times each semester, will introduce teachers to a variety of computer applications. In a test session last fall, participating teachers learned to scan photos and developed a brochure for their schools.

Other applications that may be taught include the use of multi-media presentation software (including HyperStudio), the capabilities of teleconferencing, and web page development.

Extensive knowledge of computers is not required, Halpin emphasized. "Regardless of their level of knowledge, teachers are welcome to attend our sessions," Halpin said.

The grant also will allow the College of Education to train its faculty members and students, Halpin said. "This project will enhance ongoing efforts in the College of Education to provide technology-based teacher training for our students, faculty and state teachers."

For more information about the workshops, contact Halpin at (662) 325-7117 or visit <www2.msstate.edu/~rhalpin/> after mid February for a listing of workshop dates and registration information.