When considering the ways that digital learning could alter the educational landscape, big changes are easy to notice. Taking out computers and bringing in tablets may change the dynamic of student interaction, but sometimes much smaller changes can have a larger impact. One example is a new project called the “Digital Scaffolding for English Language Arts,” a research project at the University of California-Irvine, that edits the appearance of text in a passage. Instead of presenting a solid block of a paragraph, this project will split the text digitally to show line breaks and indentations that will assist readers. Changes can be as small as the white space between words on the page but still might be able to assist struggling readers.
Integrating technology in the classroom can be a difficult task for educators. Administrators strive to offer opportunities for professional development but this is an area where teacher leaders can really shine. Teachers and support staff who have been trained to facilitate the transition to new technology can serve a valuable role. Once staff is on board, students can be taught to utilize new devices and methods to enhance their learning.
