(a)    The State Superintendent may:

(1)    Procure and develop curriculum-based learning resources using state-of-the-art technologies and techniques designed to increase the achievement levels of all students in all subject areas;

(2)    Procure and develop long-term comprehensive instructional programming and associated support resources that ensure maximum access by all educational institutions;

(3)    Develop standards for teachers and other school system employees for the offering of courses or services on the Internet or through other developing technologies;

(4)    Review courses and courseware to assure quality and alignment with the Maryland content standards and other appropriate standards;

(5)    Track and issue periodic reports on the type and frequency of courses or services utilized by teachers and other professionals under this section; and

(6)    Award grants to eligible private or public consortia to enable eligible consortia to develop state-of-the-art technology-enhanced instructional products, resources, and services for use in the classroom, including:

(i)    The development, production, and distribution of instructional programming for students;

(ii)    Staff development programming for teachers; and

(iii)    Incorporation of creative state-of-the-art applications of technology-enhanced learning resources, such as:

1.    Computer software;

2.    Databases;

3.    Films;

4.    Transparencies;

5.    Multimedia video and audio discs;

6.    Telecommunications;

7.    Educational television;

8.    Print resources; and

9.    Web-based resources and courses.

(b)    In accordance with Subtitle 10A of this title, the State Superintendent shall award a grant for the implementation of a pilot program to introduce elementary age students to computer technology and train teachers to integrate that technology into their curriculum.