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