Technology-based learning broadly refers to transmitting knowledge through electronic means, whether over the Internet, through video conferencing, by DVD or via other media. It encompasses scheduled, teacher-student instruction as well as unscheduled, self-directed learning.

Successful applications came from organizations in 16 states. California, Florida, Nevada and Utah each had two proposals chosen. Nine projects involve health care, five cover information technology, two focus on advanced manufacturing and one will train participants in "green" construction skills. The remaining projects involve the transportation, geospatial technology and energy industries. Individual awards start at just over $150,000 and run up to almost $1 million.

The projects will employ a variety of technology-based learning applications, ranging from setting up a "virtual hospital" to help train nurses to using online chat rooms to provide students with one-on-one support. In addition, award-winning projects have teamed up with growing industries, area workforce and economic development entities, and educational institutions including community and four-year colleges. The grantees and their partners will carry out their activities over a three-year period.