Technology in Classrooms Helping Students Succeed

New Fund Will Improve Access to Leading-Edge Learning Tools

September 4, 2014 Ministry of Education press release

Ontario is helping students - from junior kindergarten to Grade 12 - develop 21st century skills by investing in classroom technology that supports their learning.

Starting this school year, Ontario's $150 million technology and learning fund will further enrich the classroom experience for students across the province. The fund will give kids more opportunities to become technologically savvy with tools, such as tablets, netbooks, cameras and software, while preparing them for success in the global economy.

This investment will also strengthen professional learning for educators who will use technology and digital resources to enhance student engagement, learning and achievement.

Improving digital access for students and teachers is part of the government's plan to invest in people, build modern infrastructure and support a dynamic and innovative business climate.

Quick Facts

• School boards will be notified later this fall about their specific technology and learning fund support for the 2014-15 academic year. 
• Teaching in the 21st century will focus on higher order skills for students. This includes important skills such as critical thinking and problem solving, creativity, entrepreneurship, communication and collaboration. 
• Moving towards 21st century teaching and learning is a key goal of Achieving Excellence, the government’s renewed vision for education in Ontario. 
• Today, 83 per cent of students are graduating from high school, up from 68 per cent in 2004. 

Quotes
“Students today are growing up in a world where technology and digital resources are an integral part of their everyday lives. We need to tap into that existing knowledge and familiarity with technology to make learning even more compelling, and allow our students to become the innovators, entrepreneurs and leaders of tomorrow.”

Liz Sandals
Minister of Education