Key points:
The latest version of the program from the US Department of Education. tech.ed.gov/netp/” target=”_blank” rel=”noreferrer noopener”>National Educational technology Plan (NETP) points to several obstacles that limit the ability of educational technology to transform teaching and learning.
While previous NETPs have largely served as studies of the state of the field, the 2024 NETP frames three key divisions that limit the transformative potential of educational technology to support teaching and learning, including:
- He Digital usage gapaddressing opportunities to improve how students use technology to enhance their learning, including dynamic applications of technology to explore, create, and engage in critical analysis of content and academic knowledge.
- He Digital Design Gapaddressing opportunities for educators to expand their professional learning and develop the capabilities necessary to design technology-enabled learning experiences.
- He Digital access gap, addressing opportunities for students and educators to gain equitable access to educational technology, including connectivity, devices, and digital content. This also includes accessibility and digital health, safety and citizenship as key elements of digital access.
NETP 2024 maps each of the three divisions to the “instructional core” (i.e., students, teachers, content) and focuses on how schools, districts, and states can use educational technology to help design learning experiences. learning that improve students' access to educational opportunities. and its results. The NETP offers action-oriented recommendations for states, districts, and school leaders along with examples from all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and several territories to address disparities in educational technology and close the three divides.
“From the American Rescue Plan to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Act and more, the Biden-Harris Administration has made bold investments aimed at closing the digital divide and ensuring that all students can equitably access the latest digital tools and technology.” said US Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona.
“As we work to raise the bar in education, it is essential that we focus on empowering teachers to become active learning designers, using technology effectively to engage and inspire students. The National Educational technology Plan 2024 is a forward-thinking approach to rethink and harness the potential of educational technology to improve core instruction, reduce achievement gaps, and improve student learning in our schools.”
“The launch of NETP 2024 comes at a crucial time for educational technology and learning,” said Sarah Edson, Director of Projects and Initiatives at SETDA. “We are proud to be at the forefront of this exciting journey, advocating for the effective integration of technology into education systems across the country.”
To complement the 2024 NETP, the Department also published guide which aims to increase understanding of the requirements of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act regarding assistive technology (AT) devices and services for children with disabilities. The Department will also publish a collection of federal documents resources to support student digital health, safety, and citizenship.
This press release technology-plan”>originally appeared online.
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