By John Bailey
July 25, 2013
We know that the Internet offers the chance to move to a more student-centric approach to learning through a broad ecosystem of experiences and opportunities both within and outside of school. However, in order for technology to make a truly significant impact on K-12 education, concerns about equity, access, safety, privacy, the quality of available resources, and the professional development of educators must all be addressed.
To explore these issues, the Aspen Institute has launched, with the generous support of the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation, the Task Force on Learning and the Internet. Honorary co-chairs Former Governor Jeb Bush, founder of Digital Learning Now!, and Rosario Dawson, actress and co-founder of Voto Latino, are joining 18 thought leaders with diverse perspectives in learning, innovation, and safety to better understand the opportunities and challenges offered by connected learning.
Over the course of a year, Task Force members will explore issues around the Internet and learning, including how to create trusted environments that support teaching and learning. We will participate in online public conversations and develop recommendations to advance optimized online experiences for young people. A final report is planned for 2014.
Take a moment to read about the Task Force in this Miami Herald op-ed authored by our Honorary co-chairs and sign up to receive updates and learn about opportunities to get involved.