NEA Digital-Learning Policy Eschews Online-Only Instruction
Atlanta
Delegates to the National Education Association's convention have approved a new policy statement on digital learning that addresses some of the hot topics in the field, including new tools, online learning, and the qualifications and roles of educators.
It is the union's first attempt to update its policies in this area in 11 years. And in a sense, it outlines the NEA's best hopes and worst fears about the exploding digital-learning movement and all it encompasses.
For instance, the statement says that optimal learning environments "should neither be totally technology free, nor should they be totally online and devoid of educator interaction." While there is no one best approach, it continues, each student should receive the appropriate blend of face-to-face and technology-facilitated learning, as determined by professional educators.
The statement is fairly dense, but here are some of the important highlights. Among othe