Handheld devices, once solely the province of CEOs needing a small electronic organizational device, are another step closer to being accepted as teaching aids in public schools

Classroom technology proponents, always desperate for institutional proof that new gadgets can improve the learning process, can thank a study by nonprofit research and development firm SRI International. The study showed PDAs not only help organize calendars and phone numbers, but are also useful to students. PDAs can help in collecting data, writing papers, checking facts, synching data with desktops and laptops, and collaborating on projects. It may not seem like much at face value, but a study like the one released Monday can have a domino effect. The study observed that 89 percent of teachers found the handhelds to be an effective instructional tool for teachers, 93 percent believe the PDAs can have a positive effect on students' learning, and 90 percent plan to continue using the devices post-study. Out of 1,200 applications, about 100 teachers in a variety of different subjects and grade levels across the country received Palm Education Pioneer technology grants for the 2001-2002 school year. Palm donated more than $2.3 million in equipment to participating schools. Teachers themselves proposed ideas for how the Palms would be used in their classrooms.