Lack of home Internet access hinders students with school-provided iPads

Replacing some Hamilton County (TN) students' textbooks with iPads was a move intended to boost faltering public education performance. But school officials say there is one big problem. Many of the students, once home with their brand-new devices, don't have Internet access and likely won't get it.

Roughly 3,380 tablets and laptop computers have been assigned to county school students, covering about 8 percent of the total student population. The devices, funded through grants and foundations, are being tested to assess the value of their broader use. But school officials are finding that low-income students in particular can't connect at home. Motivated kids find Wi-Fi access by visiting a neighbor's house, business or recreation center, but many do not.

[Dec 23]