Granite State Distance Learning Network
In 1999, UNH Cooperative Extension, NH Public Television, North Country Education Foundation, Bow and Somersworth High Schools, and Verizon collaborated in conducting a pilot program that provided educational programs to teachers and students via a two-way interactive video network. The pilot tested new technology that allowed previously incompatible videoconferencing equipment to connect.
The successful pilot led to an expansion of the project into a public-private partnership called the Granite State Distance Learning Network (GSDLN). GSDLN envisions a statewide network that will offer affordable distance learning opportunities and high-speed Internet access to public and community nonprofit organizations throughout the Granite State.
According to David Foote, founding GSDLN member and current chair of its coordinating committee, the network currently has about 35 sites up and operating at schools, colleges, state agencies, public libraries, and nonprofit organizations, with more due to come online soon.
“Last year, the network delivered more than 1000 interactive conferences—300 of them Cooperative Extension events,” Foote said. “We’ve used it for two-way interactive teaching between high schools, for conferences and workshops, many types of teacher training, and trainings for public health and emergency services training—on SARS, meningitis and hepatitis.”
To learn more about the Granite State Distance Learning Network(GSDLN):
To discuss scheduling a videoconference at a GSDLN site for your community or nonprofit organization, contact David Foote
