WASHINGTON, Nov. 2, 2000 — Microsoft Corp. today said the unprecedented response to the Youth-e-Vote program is an excellent example of how technology can help enhance learning and generate interest in the electoral process among young people. Microsoft is the onsite host for Youth-e-Vote, the nation’s first online vote and registration.
“I applaud the millions of young people, teachers and parents who are taking part in this historic Internet vote,”
said John Litten, program manager for Youth and Learning at Microsoft.
“The Youth-e-Vote project shows how technology – combined with innovative teaching – can positively impact student learning about our nation’s electoral system. I am pleased Microsoft could help fuel this project’s tremendous success.”
Microsoft, Compaq Computer Corp. and Election.com provided the infrastructure, daily maintenance and software behind Youth-e-Vote’s record-breaking online vote. Microsoft contributed to the project as part of its ongoing commitment to help make the Internet a valuable resource for educators and parents.
This election cycle, Microsoft created
“Campaign 2000 – The Education Debate” on the Microsoft® Classroom Teacher Network Web site. Campaign 2000 provides election-themed lesson plans, as well as the presidential candidates’ direct responses to questions posed by 10 educators from across the country. Microsoft is also co-sponsoring Web, White and Blue, which features an online, rolling cyber debate between the presidential candidates.
“Youth-e-Vote is one of the largest tests of online voting ever,”
Litten said.
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While it may not predict the outcome of the election next Tuesday, it does foreshadow the role of the Internet in future elections. By the next presidential election, many states – if not all 50 states – will offer voters the choice of casting their ballots in a virtual voting booth.
“The young people who are taking part in this mock election will certainly be offered this online choice in their lifetimes,”
Litten said.
“Hopefully, the Youth-e-Vote program has helped prepare them for this responsibility and stimulated their interest in the election process.”
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“MSFT”
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