(a) The State Superintendent may: (1) Procure and develop curriculum-based learning resources using state-of-the-art technologies and techniques designed to increase the achievement levels of all students in all subject areas; (2) Procure and develop long-term comprehensive instructional programming and associated support resources that ensure maximum access by all educational institutions; (3) Develop standards for teachers and other school system employees for the offering of courses or services on the Internet or through other developing technologies; (4) Review courses and courseware to assure quality and alignment with the Maryland content standards and other appropriate standards; (5) Track and issue periodic reports on the type and frequency of courses or services utilized by teachers and other professionals under this section; and (6) Award grants to eligible private or public consortia to enable eligible consortia to develop state-of-the-art technology-enhanced instructional products, resources, and services for use in the classroom, including: (i) The development, production, and distribution of instructional programming for students; (ii) Staff development programming products, resources, and services for use in the classroom, including: (i) The development, production, and distribution of instructional programming for students; (ii) Staff development programming for teachers; and (iii) Incorporation of creative state-of-the-art applications of technology-enhanced learning resources, such as: 1. Computer software; 2. Databases; 3. Films; 4. Transparencies; 5. Multimedia video and audio discs; 6. Telecommunications; 7. Educational television; 8. Print resources; and 9. Web-based resources and courses. (b) In accordance with Subtitle 10A of this title, the State Superintendent shall award a grant for the implementation of a pilot program to introduce elementary age students to computer technology and train teachers to integrate that technology into their curriculum.
Maryland Legal Code