What is the significance of the Telecommunications Act of 1996 in relation to education?

The Telecommunications Act of 1996 is significant in relation to education because it established a framework that enhanced access to telecommunications services for schools and libraries. One of its key provisions was aimed at ensuring that these institutions could access affordable internet services. This facilitated the integration of technology into educational settings, enabling greater connectivity, access to online resources, and the ability to implement digital learning tools.

This framework includes initiatives like the E-rate program, which provides discounts to help schools and libraries obtain internet access and telecommunications services. By making these resources more accessible, the Act aimed to bridge the digital divide and increase educational opportunities, thereby playing a crucial role in transforming the landscape of education in the United States during the late 1990s and beyond.

The other options presented do not accurately reflect the primary focus or outcomes of the Telecommunications Act concerning education, as the Act did not mandate digital literacy training, regulate software development, or control hardware procurement for educational institutions. Instead, its concentration on improving telecommunications infrastructure had a lasting impact on how educational institutions access and utilize technology.