IEI Extension Project

Following through on a commitment to technology in Nova Scotia Schools.

Over 6200 computers were installed in 181 secondary schools between 1999 and 2001 as part of the $38 million Canada-Nova Scotia Information Economy Initiative. That initiative also provided substantial funding for professional development for teachers and technical support.

Between 2001 and 2004, the IEI-Extension focused on grades 4-6, providing $7.4 million for computers and software, $2.8 million for professional development for teachers and $5.9 million for technical support. Funding was allocated to school boards on a per capita basis.

Between 2004 and 2006, the focus of the IEI-Extension has been on curriculum-based integration of information and communications technology in grades 7 to 9. As in previous years, Professional Development and technical support are being managed directly by the eight school boards with assistance from Department staff. Funding is allocated to school boards based on student enrollment.

This funding has been allocated to 

• computers, accessories and software ($6.1 million) or 3885 new computers for schools,
• professional development for teachers ($2.2 million) or approximately 11 000 days of professional development, mostly delivered via school mentoring,
• and technical support and installation ($5.4 million) or 40 technicians in school boards in addition to those funded directly by school boards.

At the same time, each year school boards report adding 2135 new computers using school and school board funding. A further 3775 refurbished computers were provided through the Technology Recycling Program.

(Rev. October 2006)