Digital instruction is high quality.
Metrics:
- State allows alternative routes for teacher certification.
- State allows reciprocity among other states for certification of teachers.
- There is a statewide definition for “teacher of record.”
- Teachers are permitted to be “teacher of record” in multiple schools.
- Student-performance data is used to evaluate the effectiveness of teachers.
- Professional development in digital learning is available to teachers teaching an online or blended learning course.
Great teachers produce great students – wherever they live or learn. Digital learning erases physical barriers that have prevented the widespread connection between effective teachers and eager students. Statutory and administrative practices that stop instruction – at the classroom door, school campus, state border or even the nation’s border – limit access to quality educators.
A retired NASA scientist in Cape Canaveral who is qualified to teach physics in the Sunshine State should be able to teach students in any state in the country. A digital educator in one school should be able to teach students in multiple schools in-state or out-of-state.
Preparation and professional development programs should educate teachers and administrators on how to engage students, personalize learning, teach online and manage learning environments. Educators should be prepared for specific roles – traditional, blended or online – and then certified based on demonstrated performance. Performance-based certification will become increasingly important as the number and type of roles for learning professionals expands.
Breaking down the barriers to digital instruction can improve the quality of education, while at the same time reduce costs. Teachers can serve students across the state or nation from one location. Digital learning lends itself to innovative staffing plans and formation of an opportunity culture that is appealing enough to attract and retain top teaching talent, and to maximize impact and minimize cost.