3 ways to improve science literacy

Through progressions, practices, and phenomena, science literacy can be boosted through a coherent curriculum

While teachers often experience the same year or course again and again, students and their families can really see how students change over the years in school. Families can see that what students learn each year builds on what has come before. But for that to happen efficiently and effectively, … Read More

A fresh perspective on VR in special education

Incorporating VR in special education gives students access to personalized learning experiences

In early 2021, Spaulding Academy & Family Services applied for and received a technology grant from the Flutie Foundation for the purchase of virtual reality (VR) headsets.  We are a small, nonprofit special education school serving students with a wide range of abilities, including many who are on the Autism Spectrum and/or have limited … Read More

3 ways to get the most out of a digital classroom

Even after students return to in-person learning, the digital classroom offers continuing advantages

Recent Food and Drug Administration approval of the COVID-19 vaccine for 5- to 11-year-olds means that thousands of children who have continued to learn from home will dust off their lunch boxes and climb onto the school bus, destined for in-person instruction once again. As the Centers for Disease Control … Read More

Defining digital curriculum in a new era of learning

How do we best support teachers and school leaders in implementing digital curriculum for the long haul?

Even after the events of the past two years, the definition of what constitutes digital curriculum is still a source of disagreement for some. Misalignment among educator roles regarding curriculum has far from disappeared, and in some cases, the gap has grown even wider, according to new research. While the … Read More

Using VR to radically improve learning outcomes

VR tools can engage students in learning and help them connect classroom lessons with real-world concepts

“When will I ever use this?” Math students have been asking educators this very question for decades. And yet, it has long been reported by Brookings (Loveless, 2008) and others like the Algebra Project (Moses, 2001) that Algebra I is the gatekeeper to higher level math classes, higher education success, … Read More

Bringing the world to life through augmented reality

Augmented reality connects students to myriad learning opportunities and experiences they may otherwise never encounter

My school, located in London, is a rich and diverse community with over 40 languages spoken at the school. Affectionately known as a ‘village school in the United Nations of Brent,’ we can see the arch of the iconic Wembley Stadium from the end of our street. However, like some … Read More

How immersive learning will revolutionize education

Immersive learning is becoming more accessible as technologies evolve--here's how it can impact the teaching and learning experience

Immersive learning experiences are a new type of educational experience that can be used in place of traditional lectures and classrooms. Immersive learning is meant to mimic the real world by providing students with an environment that is as close to reality as possible. It’s designed for learners who are … Read More

Taking the classroom into the world with VR and AR

For younger students, immersive experiences such as VR and AR aren't simply commonplace--they're expected

Generation Z (people born from mid-1990s to 2010s) and Generation Alpha (those born between 2010s and mid-2020s) grew up surrounded by technology. For these young people, devices like smartphones and tablets are like an additional exoskeletal attachment. These young generations are not afraid of new technologies. School districts and universities … Read More

How AR can help students with special needs

AR can be a stepping stone to a more inclusive learning experience for students with special needs

According to the World Health Organization, around 15 percent of the world’s population lives with some form of disability or special educational needs—and of that 15 percent, 2 to 4 percent experience significant difficulties in functioning. However, the global disability prevalence is thought to be higher than previous WHO estimates, … Read More

How 3D tech can help overcome learning hurdles

3D tech opens up an entirely new world of educational possibilities—even when students learn from home

Over the past year, virtual learning proved to be a mixed bag of success. Some students adapted; but for others, learn-from-home was a gargantuan hurdle. Many school systems, in fact, were forced to alter their student performance standards simply due to the number of failing grades students were receiving. A … Read More