Dive Brief:
- Learning management systems have changed the administrative operations of schools across the country, but education technologists are already looking at the "next generation digital learning environment," or NGDLE, and how it will accommodate new learning approaches.
- eSchool News writes the NGDLE, which is expected to replace the LMS, should have interoperability and be able to work with other tools, and it should be able to be personalized based on school or district needs, according to a report by EDUCAUSE.
- It should also have analytics, advising, and learning assessment built in, collaboration tools, and a universal design that is accessible for users of all abilities.
Dive Insight:
Vendors with an eye toward the coming needs of education systems are expected to create products that can be mixed and matched by schools building a system that serves them. EDUCAUSE refers to this as a LEGO design. While there are companies that will try to provide all-in-one approaches — and some schools may even prefer it — the build-your-own model will inevitably provide greater flexibility and control for school districts that want the freedom to keep innovating.
Accessibility will be key in this new, digital learning space. As technology improves, students with special needs can have greater access to learning materials than ever, but it requires a focus at the development level and a fidelity of use at the school level. Teacher training, as always, can foster the skills necessary to serve all students with next-generation technology.
