Jan Fletcher, of thejournal.com, has written an article discussing the benefits of providing teacher training before iPads are deployed in the classrooms for use by the students. Although particularly helpful for ELL (English language learner) teachers, the introduction of the iPad has allowed educators to connect with their students on a common level through the use of technology. The focus of the article was on the importance of providing professional development for teachers to learn the basic functions of the iPad, specific apps relevant to curriculum content areas, and how to effectively implement the device in the classroom. However, administrators need to identify the specific goals for deploying iPads in each school in order to ensure the initiative is successful.

As technology continues to infiltrate the education field, it becomes especially important for teachers to find effective ways to engage all types of learners. However, research has shown that many special education students in particular benefit from using technology devices, such as iPods and iPads, to improve their hand-eye coordination and communication skills. These devices can address the students’ personal learning needs, provide them with a tactile platform on which to learn, and allow them to participate in similar activities as their regular education peers.

The launch of iPads as effective educational tools has spread quickly across the nation, as educational technology specialists are recognizing the potential benefits of using tablets in the classroom. Taking that a step further, many schools have chosen to implement a one-to-one program, providing each student with their own iPad to use in the classroom. A recent article by John Paczkowski indicates that “nearly 1,000 K-12 schools have an iPad one-to-one program.”

Project Tomorrow, an educational nonprofit organization focused on technology, recently published a survey report based on feedback from educators across the nation. The Speak Up National Research Project annually polls K-12 students, educators and parents regarding the role of technology in learning. This 2010 report, The New 3 E’s of Education: Enabled, Engaged and Empowered - How Today’s Educators are Advancing a New Vision for Teaching and Learning, explores the impact of three key trends in education: mobile learning, online and blended learning and digital content.

In a world where technology is rapidly changing and infiltrating every facet of our lives, the classroom is no exception. Many teachers find themselves struggling to keep up with the technology while at the same time trying to incorporate it into their curriculum in order to engage the students. Often, the teachers themselves need to embrace the role of the students, learning the new technologies and how to effectively utilize them in the classroom.

Digital learning has the potential to transform the field of education by opening doors for students that maximize their potential for success. It provides them with the opportunity to learn at their own pace, and can be adapted to fit the learning styles of almost every type of learner. In addition, teachers can access the tools necessary to create successful learning environments and address the individualized learning needs of even the most diverse population.

Digital Learning Now! is a national campaign designed to address policies in order to provide quality digital learning environments that will prepare students for the future. This campaign has developed 10 Elements of High Quality Digital Education, intended to serve as a catalyst for lawmakers to integrate digital learning into education. These elements are grouped into three areas, which focus on students, providers, and the government.

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For more information, view the full Digital Learning Now! report.