Title of Program:  START (Service & Technology Academic Resource Team)

Summary:
This article describes a new initiative being pilot tested in six schools to help teachers and staff better integrate technology into their schools by using the knowledge and skills already available within the student population.

Sponsoring entity(s): Microsoft & Corporation for National and Community Service

Date: 2010

Location of the article: This article can be accessed through the School Library Journal website.

Setting(s) addressed:

• School
• Classroom

Targeted population(s):

• High school
• Middle school

Primary Technology Application(s) Addressed:

• Technology support
• Technology integration

Major education topic(s) addressed:

• Technology skills
• Job skills

Major findings/conclusions:

• The START initiative combines five existing projects, including Generation YES!, in which students help teachers integrate technology into the curriculum in meaningful ways and MOUSE, where students provide technology support in their schools.
• Guidelines to help other schools build their own student-led programs will be available by June 2010.
• Videos demonstrating some of the pilot programs are already available at the Vimeo website.

Practical implications of the findings:

• With decreased funding for education and educational technology across the country, many schools will benefit from models and guidelines to use students’ interest and expertise in technology to benefit their schools.

Reviewer Comments:
This initiative is still in the early stages.  There is not yet data available about the effectiveness of the START program.