TAPBI Performance Audit Report

Technology AssistedProject-BasedInstruction ProgramREPORTHIGHLIGHTS TAPBI overfunded byPERFORMANCE AUDIT about $6.4 millionSubjectThe Technology AssistedProject-Based Instruction Distance-learning programs are operated(TAPBI) pilot program was in each of the 50 states. Arizona is 1 of 26created by the states that provide K-12 online learningLegislature in 1998 to through individual schools rather than"improve pupilthrough the state department ofachievement and extendeducation. Currently, Arizona statutesacademic options beyondthe four walls of the allow seven school districts and seven Student hours cannot betraditional classroom." In charter schools to operate TAPBI validated—A significant problem withfiscal year 2006, TAPBI programs. using the ADM funding method for TAPBIprovided Internet-basedis that it is based on students self-instruction to more thanreporting the hours spent completing the15,000 Arizona students.classwork. This information cannot beTAPBI student enrollment has verified for accuracy or reasonableness.increased from 500 students in For example, while the computer systemOur Conclusion 2001 to more than 15,000 in 2006. may record the time the student isThe TAPBI Program was logged on to the computer, this does notoverfunded by about $6.4 mean the student is actually theremillion because of the The TAPBI schools provide instruction performing related schoolwork. Further,way some students were through Internet-based applications ...