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Joel Klein's case for having the private sector innovate within schools

The Michael and Susan Dell Foundation just released their first in a series of case studies about what blended learning can "look like." The cases will break out the schools' instructional, operational, and financial models, which I find very helpful. This first case profiles a K-1 KIPP school in Los Angeles using computer-based stations to make a rotational small-group differentiated instruction model feasible with a smaller budget for instructional staff. As the authors state, "online programs enable [KIPP] Empower's model but do not integrate with teacher-led instruction" (11).

Principles of networked learning, constructivism, and connectivism inform the design of a test case through which secondary students construct personal learning environments for the purpose of independent inquiry. Emerging web applications and open educational resources are integrated to support a Networked Student Model that promotes inquiry-based learning and digital literacy, empowers the learner, and offers flexibility as new technologies emerge. The Networked Student Model and a test case are described in detail along with implications and considerations for additional research. The article is meant to facilitate further discussion about K-12 student construction of personal learning environments and offer the practitioner a foundation on which to facilitate a networked learning experience. It seeks to determine how a teacher can scaffold a networked learning approach while providing a foundation on which students take more control of the learning process.

In case anyone is interested, there is a "mini" Maker Faire in Somerville next weekend!

Here's an article highlighting the development of apps that engage users (in this case, kids) in the world around them...

This article looks at one case study in El Salvador where MOOCs have cracked open the door for university reform. Universities in emerging markets operate on really low budgets compared to U.S. universities, and MOOCs give them access to current content, especially important for high-tech subjects.

How you might teach with a MOOC

"This case study debunks some of the misconceptions around what happened to edutainment in the '90s, and shares lessons learned from one of the most important periods in the history of games and learning."

A case-study on how one school is using data to help prevent dropouts in middle school.

Taking the next step towards credentialing through MOOC's and establishing greater value for these online classes.

Interesting decision to address a number of common criticisms of online learning: the potential for cheating, the failure of enrollees to complete the course and the lack of certification.

This page contains a video and case study of Katy Independent School district's integration of mobile technology into the classrooms.

Influence of Politics and business on education with Florida as a case in point. What is Good for Business, may not necessarily good for education. Interesting article with interactive maps.

After today's section case discussion, I was curious about how prevalent 1:1 tablet implementations are in K12 schools in the U.S. Here's a map from the One-To-One Institute that appears to have been generated by news coverage of tablet rollouts--I doubt it's comprehensive, but it's still an interesting geographic picture...

I spent some time poking around BrainPOP's GameUp page (BrainPOP creates educational flash videos and resources to be used in classrooms, in case you didn't know). Some are pretty cool examples of gamifying learning concepts, while others feel a little clunkier. I enjoyed poking around, so I thought I'd share.

BiNu makes feature phones a little smarter.

I'm so excited to see biNu on here, Jenny! I wrote a case study about their technology for a class last year and was blown away how their model of cloud computing could essentially turn "dumb" feature phones into smart phones - and for a fraction of the cost. They've changed their marketing approach and business model substantially since I wrote the case study last fall, but I still see a lot of potential for this type of tech to reach hitherto-unconnected people in the developing world who were still using phones and 2G networks. So interesting, thanks for posting!

"The report Pockets of Potential: Using Mobile Technologies to Promote Children's Learning, by Cooney Center Industry Fellow Carly Shuler, makes the case that our nation's leaders should not overlook the role mobile technologies can play, if well deployed, in building human capital and in helping to stimulate valuable innovation."

The PULP platform is an example of a writer trying to respond to people wanting more than traditional publishing. If this platform, or something like it, was widely accepted by people it might build a better case for alternative forms of publishing in education

"Motivation is weak because more students don't like school, don't work hard and don't do well." Also see Tom Friedman in the NYTimes referring to this article and concluding that "right now the Hindus and Confucians have more Protestant ethics than we do, and as long as that is the case we'll be No. 11!"

The author makes a case for mobile learning for professionals with the Android App - Google Goggles... are there other uses that people see of the app in the k-12 sector?