K-12 Technology News
Here you'll find the latest news from the education technology world, from the newest hardware and software releases to policy and funding updates to research reports to school and district tech initiatives. Looking for more in-depth coverage of important topics? Be sure to visit our Features page.
A new study from the University of Maryland found that people recall information better when it is presented to them in a virtual environment, as opposed to a desktop computer.
Information about students has become fair game for data brokers, which don't adhere to any protective measures currently in place, according to a new study by Fordham University's Center on Law and Information Policy. As "Transparency and the Marketplace for Student Data" reported, lists of student information are widely available for purchase "on the basis of ethnicity, affluence, religion, lifestyle, awkwardness and even a perceived or predicted need for family planning services." Those who trade in student information are governed under no federal privacy law.
- By Dian Schaffhauser
- 06/13/18
Among those who view the internet as a "bad" thing for society, the most common issue that stood out (cited by 25 percent) was how it isolates people or pushes them to spend too much time on devices. Sixteen percent talked about the spread of fake news; 14 percent were concerned about its impact on children; and 13 percent suggested that it "encourages illegal activity."
- By Dian Schaffhauser
- 06/12/18
The challenge for CBE proponents, according to a new report, is that districts and schools are making the transition to this model of instruction and learning "through different entry points and roll-out strategies," resulting in "significant variation" in the education itself. "To a degree, these differences can be traced to regional priorities and needs," the report noted. Others, however, are a result of how well or poorly people understand what they're doing.
- By Dian Schaffhauser
- 06/12/18
A new update for Minecraft: Education Edition, called Update Aquatic, is adding underwater science to the educational version of the popular world-building game.
Project Learning Tree is offering grants of $1,000 for STEM education projects that focus on the environment and community engagement.
Eleven days until the deadline for the Champion Creatively Alive Children Grant Program!
Micro-credentials, also known as digital badges, allow people to express their competency in a specific skill. In the education arena, schools and districts have begun promoting the credentials as a way for teachers and others to gain professional learning in discrete topics and practices.
- By Dian Schaffhauser
- 06/08/18
School safety technology provider PikMyKid is offering 1,000 schools free licenses to its Panic Button App, part of its school security platform. The app lets school staff initiate an alarm from any device.
Currently, 29 states have defined instructional materials to include digital versions; 30 allow the implementation; and six have required the use of digital curriculum.
- By Dian Schaffhauser
- 06/08/18