- Analysis of Distance Learning for the 2020-21 School Year: New America released a report examining distance learning successes and challenges in higher education during the 2020–21 school year. The report describes five pillars of quality digital learning, including:
- Implement an organized class structure and clear communication.
- Delineate clear and aligned learning objectives.
- Provide regular feedback.
- Build on supportive technology.
- Support student connection and community.
Additionally, the findings tie into federal policy recommendations to improve quality and equity for all students. The report’s authors suggest that policymakers should boost broadband access, improve the collection of data on distance education programs, establish and fund a federal research agenda, and create a federal grant program to support professional development.
- What Worked and What Did Not for Remote Learning and Reopenings: The Center for American Progress (CAP) analyzed what did and did not work for students, schools, parents and others during the COVID-impacted 2020-2021 school year. The findings revealed intense stress among educators, examples of open and successful communication and struggles with engaging communities in the reopening process. Additional findings sought to identify barriers to student success.
- Summary of Research on the Impact of Online Education: A collection of research studies and other resources compiled by Maryville University examines the impact of online education on families, as well as how they contended with the sudden transition to remote learning. The article includes information on the benefits of online learning, the negative impacts of school disruptions and the nature of parents’ concerns about their children's learning outcomes as a result of the pandemic.
- Internships and Apprenticeships in a Virtual Workplace: A podcast episode from MDRC covers work-based learning opportunities and their importance to CTE programs. With the abrupt shift to remote learning, these programs struggled - MDRC also authored a report describing how employers and trainers have adapted to a new virtual workplace.
- Adapting to a Post-Pandemic World: A new report from Quality Matters and Eduventures® Research looks at how postsecondary institutions are adapting to the future of online learning, as well as how they are shifting their focus to professional, faculty and technology development.
Findings include:
- An elevated commitment to online learning quality assurance goals, including having courses meet quality standards, supported by a commitment to faculty professional development.
- On average, a 10-15% increase across institutions in online professional development and student orientation to online study.
- The largest yearly increases ever in education technology investments during 2020 and 2021, across all sectors of higher education.
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