Innovative tech-ed system teaches teachers how to instruct HTML without computers in the classroom.

The new system, created by Thomas F. Ghoreyeb of Madison Pixl llc., isolates the concept of creating web pages with HTML in classroom lessons and activities. The concepts are then applied using independent lab time. The advantage of this is reduced lab and equipment expenses at a higher rate of learning and retention.

After realizing that school budgets were not growing any time soon, and that computers were being under-utilized due to insufficient teacher training, Mr. Ghoreyeb used his years as a web developer, and Cisco Certified Academy Instructor to create a way for teachers to help students bridge the digitial divide.

The first theory he attacks is that most teachers are proficient enough to teach html to students. "Most teachers avoid direct HTML Literacy instruction, said Mr. Ghoreyeb. "They depend on programs like FrontPage and Dreamweaver to create the HTML for them. Later students need to learn HTML when attempting more advanced web technology like data-driven sites and incorporating XML data into their web pages.

The next theory he addresses with this system is that there should be a PC for every student. "In many cases, instruction is geared in this manner, and if there is not sufficient computer access, teaching students is avoided all together. This system expects that the time students spend on a computer, at the lab, at home, in the library, or at a local club, is time well spent. That means they have some understanding of the task before they even sit down. By delivering lessons using manipulatives and using transposition for rote memorization, students already understand the goals and tools before they sit down. This saves money and time. It also lets students progress through the concepts at a faster rate, by delivering the concept away from PCs, without being distracted by the computers themselves."

The final beneficiary, and the most important is the student, who will have a greater mastery of web page development, and can be considered "HTML Literate" at the completion of the three lesson course. They'll be able to create a web site, links, and see what really happens behind the curtain of the Web.

"It's really thinking outside the box" Said a director of Adult Education at Connecicut's largest education cooperative. "We'll be offering certifications using this system later this year."

The system is available for teachers, independent learners, home schoolers, and instructors of any technical level at http://www.123html.com offered by Madison Pixl, llc. of Guilford, CT.