Exploring Principals' Perceptions of Applications, Benefits, and Barriers of Alberta's Supernet

Abstract

The Alberta SuperNet, a very high speed, broadband network, was built to bring highspeed connectivity to every school, library, and municipal office in Alberta. This CDN $294 million dollar investment was made based on the perceived need for high-speed connectivity to stimulate economic and community development and to enhance government services, especially education and health. A survey of Alberta school principals was conducted in the spring of 2005. This survey investigated principals perceptions of 14 potential teaching and learning, administrative, and professional development applications of broadband networking. Results of this survey revealed that while school principals voiced some apprehension, they nonetheless perceive value in broadband applications for educational purposes. Results of the survey can be used to provide rationale for broadband expenditures and both supply and demand side interventions designed to increase effective and enthusiastic use by local schools