Digital Learning in Arizona Developing Digital Learning Opportunities in Arizona C.J. Eisenbarth...

Digital Learning in Arizona

Developing Digital Learning Opportunities in Arizona

C.J. Eisenbarth HagerMorrison Institute for Public Policy at ASU

Goals of Primer• Status of digital learning in Arizona:– Infrastructure– Schools– Students– Teachers

• Public policies in place• National best practices

How do we put this together to work for Arizona?

What We Know• Private market value of digital learning

industry:– $1.3 billion in 2000– $5 - $7 billion in 2008

• High school students enrolled in an online class:– 14% in 2008– 27% in 2009

• Growth potential: blended learning

What We Know• Arizona students per high-speed internet-

connected computer: 4.3• Percent of Arizona 8th graders with access in

the classroom: 79%• Percent of Arizonans with access at home:

74%• Arizona ranked 20th for download speed

AOI-Approved School DistrictsAjoBensonCave CreekChandlerChino ValleyColorado RiverDeer ValleyDysartFlorenceFountain Hills

GilbertHigleyHumboldtJ.O. CombsLake HavasuMaranaMesaParadise ValleyPeoria

Phoenix UnionPrescottSanta CruzSedona-Oak CreekSierra VistaTempeTucsonVailWinslow

What We KnowArizona Online Instruction (AOI)

• Number of AOI schools: 47• ADM: 12,038.84 (AY2009-10)• Total Students: 29,460 (AY2009-10)• No state-sponsored virtual school

Gaps in What We Know• Number of schools connected • Staffing credentials• Tools used• Blended digital learning• Vetting process• Professional development

What We Need to Consider• Hub(s) for digital learning discussion• Data: regularly updated and comprehensive• Partnerships

What We Need to Consider

• Policy Discussions– Seat time – Funding– Inter-district transfer – Out of state providers– Teacher certification

Observations• We have a solid platform, but need to address

a few issues for broad adoption• Economies of scale matter• Urban districts are in a better position –

benefits of scale and centrality• Opportunities in rural districts in terms of

infrastructure as well as certain courses• There are many great things happening in

Arizona

cj.hager@asu.edu