Dive Brief:
- Though traditional K-12 schools generally lag behind charters in terms of innovation, the use of a “slow” approach to implementation — like the “4/1 model,” where online learning is used once a week — can result in success.
- The one day per week of digital learning means that students get a taste of “personalized, student-driven experiences” while progressing at their own pace.
- Lauren Angelone, adjunct professor of education technology at the University of Findlay, suggests that a school-wide embrace of the 4/1 model would let schools stick to tradition while encouraging qualities like critical thinking and independence.
Dive Insight:
Because change requires a major culture shift, Angelone writes, the adoption of blended learning in traditional K-12 classrooms is predictably snail-paced. Not only can a slow and experimental transition allow for a deeper understanding of tech, it can also potentially ease anxiety and worry for both educators and students unfamiliar with devices and online content.
More schools are using blended learning as the advent of personalized learning continues, and as an increasing number of districts seeking to adopt cost-saving and individualized components to their pre-existing curricula.
