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iNACOL Launches Research Clearinghouse for Online, Blended Learning

• By Joshua Bolkan
• 08/21/13

The International Association for K-12 Online Learning (iNACOL) has partnered with the Michigan Virtual Learning Research Institute (MVRLI) to launch a Research Clearinghouse for K-12 Blended and Online Learning.

Searchable by keyword, date added, and project contributors, the clearinghouse "references to research articles and other publications from the field of K-12 online and blended learning," according to information on the cleainghouse Web site.

"This clearinghouse offers the most complete picture of innovative instructional models and practices for blended and online teaching and learning for personalizing K-12 education," said Kathryn Kennedy, iNACOL's director of research, in a prepared statement. "It provides a wealth of information for researchers, policymakers and education leaders exploring all aspects of blended and online learning as they consider implementing next generation learning models for students and teachers."

The clearinghouse evolved from the University of Florida's Virtual School Clearinghouse, according to information released by the organizations, and funded in part by Next Generation Learning Challenges.

"The launch of the clearinghouse represents an important next step in moving the K-12 research community forward and making research more accessible to the general public," said Joe Freidhoff, director of MVLRI, in a prepared statement. "We believe the accelerating growth of K-12 online learning must be accompanied by a similar trajectory of scholarship and are excited to be partnering with iNACOL to share this work."

The Michigan Virtual Learning Research Institute is part of the Michigan Virtual University (MVU), a non-profit launched by the state to advocate for online learning. Aside from MVRLI, MVU comprises the Michigan Virtual School and Michigan LearnPort.

iNACOL is a non-profit organization that "represents a diverse cross-section of pioneers at the forefront of K-12 education, including teachers, charter schools, school districts, state education agencies, nonprofit organizations, colleges and universities, research institutions, and content and technology providers," according to information on the organization's Web site.

More information about the clearinghouse is available at k12onlineresearch.org.