ASPIN: Innovative K-12 Connectivity with CATV

This one-year project will develop a replicable model for connecting K-12 schools to the Internet utilizing innovative connectivity technologies, and will foster long-term, local, self-sufficiency through the use of cable television's fiber-optic infrastructure. ASPIN, along with its public and private partners, will develop this model through four related parts:

1. Connectivity:

  • Establish physical connections to the Internet within four Phoenix area schools using the local cable television provider's infrastructure.

  • Provide a low-cost, high-bandwidth infrastructure that will allow these schools to make use of multimedia and other bandwidth-intensive applications in support of science curriculum.

2. Network Information Center (NIC):

Formed with the understanding that physical Internet connection is not enough, but that sites must gain local technical and user-support knowledge to be a successful and sustainable model, this project component will establish a comprehensive technical support structure for participating K-12 schools.

The NIC, embodied as a staff member, will assist local support personnel; becoming a ready reference desk for technical issues, user training, and functional coordination.

3. Curriculum Specialists:

The Curriculum Specialist program will work with existing programs such as PRISM and Earthvision as well as the existing ASPIN NIC organization to incorporate technology and Internet access into the curriculum. A key aspect of this program is the working of technology into the application phase as soon as possible.

4. Evaluation and Assessment:

Besides providing connectivity, the project will also look at the success of deployment and the use of new technologies within the various schools. The value of the on-going ASPIN/K12 partnership in relation to the NIC and Curriculum Specialist program will be appraised as well.