Every Friday, I’ll recap some of the most interesting news and thought-provoking developments from the past week.
I can’t fit all of this week’s news stories here, though, so feel free to browse eSchool News and read up on other news you may have missed.
This week, our stories focus on one thing, which policy makers have said is a necessity, and not a luxury, in life: the internet. When schools have solid high-speed internet connections, students and teachers can access an infinite number of resources and tools that enhance learning. When a school has spotty internet, little or no wireless, or slow connections, a much bleaker picture emerges.
Read on for more:
Can your internet service provider help close the digital divide?
The digital divide is a reality for three out of four American families, meaning approximately eight million individuals under the age of 18 are living without internet access. According to Pew Research, 79 percent of surveyed middle and high school teachers report allowing students to access homework online with 76 percent allowing students to submit assignments online. However, only 18 percent of teachers reported the majority of students have access to the digital tools they need at home, which left those students without access to broadband at a significant disadvantage.
Distance learning fills core gaps at rural school
South Dakota is leveraging a statewide distance learning center to link students to core courses. Started 15 years ago, the Center for Statewide E-learning has worked to fill gaps at smaller, rural South Dakota schools, she said. The offerings have helped level the playing field between large and small districts.
The next generation of wireless services: Super-fast 5G
Federal regulators recently opened the door to the next generation of wireless services, making the U.S. the first nation to allocate a wide swath of airwaves to deliver super-fast 5G access.
5 tips for using live video in the classroom
New video technology, supported by a reliable internet connection, is making the classroom video chat option much more flexible and practical, too. A good mix of graphics, video chat, and interactions can deliver excellent educational values. This allows for far better discussion and communications opportunities.
- AI’s transformative role in accessibility - October 3, 2024
- Is your state one of WalletHub’s best states for teachers? - September 30, 2024
- Why is Technology Important in Teaching and Learning? - September 26, 2024