The primary goal of the Ed-Tech program is to improve student academic achievement through the use of technology in schools.  A document released by the U.S. Department of Education provides guidelines and examples of many allowable uses for the funds.

Merit Software products cover many of the suggested uses, including:

* Purchasing and training teachers to use instructional software that has been shown to be effective aids for teaching English language learners, students with disabilities and both struggling and advanced learners.

* Using technology to support project-based classroom instruction to prepare students for the increasingly complex life and work environments of the 21st century, which will require high levels of creativity and innovation, critical thinking and problem solving, and collaborative reading, writing, and communication.

* Implementing a commercial learning management system to enable teachers to better manage instructional practices, organize subject-matter content, and support classroom communication and collaboration.

* Making innovative use of online learning courseware that can facilitate access to rigorous interactive content and support interactive pedagogical practices, especially for students in geographically isolated areas.

For more information about Merit Software’s full product line go to www.meritsoftware.com

U.S. educators who have questions about how to access stimulus funds can also contact a Merit representative.