Technology could help PA students finish GEDs

(Undated) -- Advocates say technology is leading the way to help the 1.6 million Pennsylvanians without a high school diploma finish their basic education.

C.T. Turner, with GED Testing Services, says internet-based classes are typically more successful than traditional classroom learning.

He says 60 percent of students who fail a test will re-take it, if it's based online.

"There's a lot more preparation that's offered online," Turner says. "It's something we're working with publishers and other folks to develop online resources like online course material that higher education is starting to embrace. We're developing some of those for the adult education population."

A recent study by Georgetown University reveals next year 63 percent of jobs will require education beyond a high school diploma.

The GED, or General Educational Development test, brings students up to speed in reading, writing, social studies, science and math.

Nationwide, about 40 million people have not earned their high school diploma.