These learning scenarios support the development of skills such as critical thinking, inquiry and research, creativity, problem solving, designing and collaboration. They help students develop a sense of agency, the ability to harness technology, and support learning lifelong and lifewide. This is leading to an emerging “second level digital divide” in US schools, fueled by differences in how technology is utilized to advance teaching and learning. MORE

Proponents of digital learning, as well as those committed to closing the nation's “homework gap,” rejoiced on Thursday when the U.S. The future belongs to the connected--and the Digital Equity Act aims to connect us all. MORE

This kind of connectivity is necessary, the authors note, to help connect students to high-quality digital learning opportunities. It also highlights state leaders who have helped their states put these digital learning opportunities directly in front of teachers and students. MORE

One year ago we launched the Massachusetts Digital Connections Initiative in partnership with Governor Baker’s Office, the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (ESE), and MassIT. MORE

Editor’s note: This story led off this week’s Future of Learning newsletter, which is delivered free to subscribers’ inboxes every other Wednesday with trends and top stories about education innovation. Sign up for the Future of Learning newsletter. Future of Learning. MORE

This post is the first of a short series meant to highlight the great work of many nonprofit organizations that are working diligently to support students’ learning on a daily basis. Creators of Blended Learning Universe (www.blendedlearning.org), the organization provides a directory of innovative schools and a myriad of models and case studies to support district transformation. Organization: International Association of K-12 Online Learning (iNACOL). MORE

This week, the digital divide is back in focus yet again. But there are some Google Fiber programs that might be well-positioned to tackle the digital divide. Read on for more: 3 Google Fiber programs that could help ease the digital divide. MORE

In education technology, a litany of surveys published this decade have touted the growing adoption of digital learning tools. The bird’s-eye results: 65 percent of teachers say they use digital learning tools every day; 87 percent report using them at least a few days each week. MORE

Cross-posted from Digital Promise Addressing the Digital Learning Gap with Effective Educator Coaching JULY 26, 2017 | BY KAREN CATOR In 2014, I wrote – The problem with education in America is not the lack of excellence. Karen Cator is President & CEO of Digital Promise. MORE