Telidon in Education

Workshop Leader:
Anna McKague, Manager of
Information & Educational
Services, Norpak

Telidon, or Videotext as it is generally known, was introduced only a few years ago; yet, it has become the focus of much national attention, and is already being used by publishers, retail chains, government departments, and educational institutions throughout North America. If its popularity grows at the current rate, it is obvious that Videotext could have a tremendous impact on our businesses, homes and schools.

In the sessions, two main areas were examined: the implications and applications of Videotext in education; and the strategies necessary for women to become more involved with this new technology. In the first area, discussion centred on such issues as proper regulation of the creation of appropriate Videotext material intended for school children; the impact on society of universally available education in the home; the role of the teacher in developing educational Videotext material; and the role of the government in control and dissemination of such material.

Regarding Videotext and women, the idea was raised that women historically have been excluded from involvement in development and use of "high technology." The role of women in high-tech industries, now and in the future, was discussed, as well as the varying Videotext careers that women may pursue. Finally, it was suggested that since Videotext is a more "friendly" medium than the average computer, those who find computers intimidating may be more successful in the Videotext.

Action:

• More research is required on the effects of the growing use of technologies in the classroom, and particularly the long-range effects. School boards must be advised of the need for a comprehensive approach to the introduction and use of computers for teaching and learning purposes.