Giving Compass' Take:

· Although technology continues to be introduced into the classroom, a new study shows the need for real results from long-term studies to ensure funds are being spent on effective digital curriculum. 

· How are schools incorporating technology into the classroom? How has digital and blended learning shown to affect students' learning and outcome? How can donors help support the development of effective digital learning? 

· Here's how schools are re-defining student-centered classrooms with technology integration.

Tech is as common in classrooms today as a pencil, and curricular tools and resources are increasingly making the jump from physical to digital formats.

Whether it’s a math program, like Teach to One, or an online foreign language course, these computer-based tools often allow students to move forward at their own pace. Some students may feel ready to forge ahead in fractions, while others may need more time on algebraic equations. Some experts argue this allows a real personalized learning approach.

But the research on these tools is still not consistent. As experts found when examining Teach to One, some students tested more strongly after spending time using the program, while others did not.

Administrators looking to add online technology programs to their districts and schools should ask vendors for all available research evidence to back up any claim made in pitches for their products. While backing from philanthropic organizations is worth noting, it’s more important for curriculum administrators to see longterm academic studies before bringing any new tools to their school or district.

Read the full article about effective digital curriculum by Lauren Barack at Education Dive.