Schwarzenegger backs digital textbooks
18 Jun 2009
by: Sarah Underwood
Arnold Schwarzenegger, Governor of California, has backed an initiative to introduce digital text books into schools in the cash strapped state. Starting with high school maths and science, the initiative paves the way for easier access to free digital texts in California's schools.
With today’s children accessing information electronically at home, Schwarzenegger queried the need for California's public school students to carry old, heavy and expensive textbooks when they can access up-to-date information on their phones and computer screens.
He said: “California is home to software giants, bioscience research pioneers and first-class university systems. It's nonsensical – and expensive – to look to traditional hard-bound books when information today is so readily available in electronic form. This is particularly so now, when our school districts are strapped for cash and our state budget deficit is forcing further cuts to classrooms.
“If California is to remain competitive in an increasingly global economy, the initial focus on maths and science texts is critical. As the music and newspaper industries will attest, those who adapt quickly to changing consumer and business demands will thrive in our increasingly digital society and worldwide economy. Digital textbooks can help us achieve those goals and ensure that California's students continue to thrive in the global market.”
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