The Chilean Ministry of Education Launches New Partnership with Discovery Education Supporting Presidential EdTech Initiative

-New Collaboration Introduces Unique Combination of Dynamic Digital Content and Targeted Professional Learning to Chilean Schools-

Silver Spring, Md. (3of October of 2018)– The Chilean Ministry of Education(MINEDUC) has launched a new partnership with Discovery Education, the leading provider of digital content and professional learning for Primary and Secondary classrooms, supporting Me Conecto para Aprender (I Connect to Learn), an initiative of Chilean President Sebastián Piñera. Me Conecto para Aprender aims to close the gap in access to information technologies and promote their use across Chile by providing all of the country’s 7grade students a laptop computer, a year of internet access, and high-quality digital resources that encourage the use of the computer.

Following a thorough evaluation, MINEDUC selected Discovery Education to provide dynamic digital content to 1500 7grade students from 25 schools in the cities of Santiago and Melipilla during the 2018 and 2019 school years. In addition, a 7grade science teacher and a 7grade math teacher from each of the 25 participating schools were chosen to take part in sustained professional learning opportunities delivered by Discovery Education experts. The professional development component of this initiative began during a special, three day event in Santiago that occured from the 1of October through the 3of October. This event was jointly hosted by MINEDUC and Discovery Education and provided participants new strategies for using technology to create the engaging, modern digital learning environments that will prepare Chile’s students to compete in the global economy.

“The Ministry of Education is responsible for developing an inclusive, high-quality education system that is open to the world and contributes to the personal growth of each student,” said Chilean Education Minister Marcela Cubillos Sigall. “We believe that modern technologies play a crucial role not only in improving student achievement, but also in preparing students for future success. Discovery Education shares this belief, and we look forward to working with their talented team on Me Conecto para Aprender.”

Teachers and students participating in this initiative will also receive access to Discovery Education’s innovative and These digital textbooks are aligned to rigorous Chilean learning objectives, support a comprehensive curriculum, and include a variety of multimedia resources that support different learning styles. Discovery Education’s Techbook series saves teachers’ time with a comprehensive design that places model lessons, student activities and assessments at their fingertips. Additionally, the Techbooks are platform neutral and can be used in any instructional environment.

Discovery Education’s Science Techbook, utilizes an inquiry-based format, helps teach students to read, write, and think like scientists through hands-on labs, digital explorations, an interactive glossary, and data analysis activities. The Math Techbook is a digital textbook that connects students to math through real-world problems, helping all learners develop long-lasting mastery of mathematical concepts.

Throughout this collaboration, Chilean educators will receive additional support from the . A global community of education professionals, the Discovery Education Community connects members across school systems and around the world through social media, virtual conferences, and in-person events, fostering valuable networking, idea sharing and inspiration.

“Discovery Education is honored to have been selected by the Chilean Ministry of Education to supportMe Conecto para Aprender,” said Discovery Education Director Lauren Conn. “This initiative represents a substantial investment in ensuring each Chilean student has equal access to high-quality educational technologies and resources that help prepare them for success in the global economy. We look forward to the success of this partnership.”

For more information about Discovery Education’s digital resources and professional learning services, visit , and stay connected with Discovery Education on social media through , follow us on Twitter at , or find us on and .

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About Discovery Education
As the global leader in standards-based digital content for K-12 classrooms worldwide, Discovery Education is transforming teaching and learning with award-winning digital textbooks, multimedia content, professional learning, and the largest professional learning community of its kind. Serving 4.5 million educators and over 50 million students, Discovery Education’s services are available in approximately half of U.S. classrooms, 50 percent of all primary schools in the UK, and more than 50 countries around the globe. Inspired by the global media company Discovery Inc., Discovery Education partners with districts, states, and like-minded organizations to captivate students, empower teachers, and transform classrooms with customized solutions that increase academic achievement. Explore the future of education at .