The best tools to create blended learning environments

In a dynamic blended learning environment, the teacher is a facilitator of learning, mentoring and guiding students as they progress

Key points: Thirty unique, energetic learners enter a bright, welcoming 4th grade classroom. The students’ academic levels span an incredible range–from kindergarten-level skills to almost high school-level proficiency. Among these students are newcomers to the country adjusting to a new language and culture, students with special education needs requiring individualized … Read More

Online learning in high school helps students explore career pathways

Taking career-related courses in high school broadens students’ horizons--and also helps them narrow their choices

Key points: Helping students choose a career pathway that’s personally rewarding for them is one of the most important functions of a secondary education. High schools can fulfill this goal by giving students opportunities to explore a wide range of career options in the courses they provide. Programs and courses … Read More

Unlocking potential: The power of online courses in our school

An online learning site coordinator shares seven lessons she’s learned along the way

Key points: We started working with an online education high school program about 10 years ago and have been expanding our use of online courses ever since. Serving about 1,100 students in grades 6-12, our school has built up its course offerings without having to add headcount. Along the way, … Read More

Virtual academies remove barriers and unlock student potential

Virtual academies let districts meet a range of student needs, giving each learner the opportunity to learn in the environment that best suits them

Key points: Two remarkable high school teachers changed the course of my life at a time when academics were the least of my concerns. Their belief in my potential and guidance helped me establish a solid foundation for my future and changed my life. This experience led me from a career … Read More

How to choose the right digital courses for your students

Identifying your digital must-haves is among the most important actions to ensure digital courses meet student needs

Key points: With an abundance of digital curriculum options in the marketplace, it can feel overwhelming for school administrators to find digital courses that meet the needs of their students. This is why I always recommend first identifying the challenges you aim to solve with digital courses and setting specific … Read More

Lessons from an online teacher: Supporting phenomena-based learning

Teaching online can sometimes present obstacles to student engagement--particularly in science and math classes

Key points: I have worked in many different states and in many different learning environments throughout my 19-year career as an educator. For the past 13 years I have been honored to teach at Agora Cyber Charter School. Established in 2005, Agora Cyber Charter School is an online public school … Read More

How satellite connectivity can narrow the digital learning gap

With its turnkey accessibility, satellites can rapidly bridge the digital divide and enable lifelong learning and upskilling for students and workers alike

Key points: We are living through a dramatic transformation in how Americans learn. Though not exactly new, e-learning is being quickly embraced by more and more people as a complement or alternative to traditional classroom learning. Part of this rapid change is because the full range of e-learning’s possibilities are … Read More

Video game design boosts students’ literacy skills

A pilot project in the Bronx results in 51-percent growth in literacy skills in just three months

Key points: Teachers generally frown upon students who play video games in class, but a public school in the Bronx has found a way to use video game design as an educational tool–and the results are astounding. Students in the pilot program saw a significant improvement in their literacy skills … Read More

5 ways to integrate gamification into your classroom

Gamification isn’t just about having fun--it’s about creating an environment where students actively participate and learn

Key points: Incorporating game elements into lessons helps students feel more motivated and excited to participate. As a fourth-grade teacher, I’ve seen how gamification can transform a regular lesson into something my students look forward to. “Games are among children’s favorite activities, especially for primary school students. Introducing games into … Read More

Engaging the reluctant reader: Benefits of gamified learning in literacy education

Discover how interactive, game-based learning strategies can inspire confidence and joy in literacy (for even the most reluctant readers)

On average, about 25 percent of children in the early grades struggle with reading. These students are often reluctant readers because they find the process complicated, and they lack confidence in their abilities. At the same time, the percentage of students who say they read for pleasure is declining: Fewer than … Read More