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The Digital Backpack
Your resource for online learning
Your trusted source for K-12 online learning insights, teaching strategies, and success stories from Michigan’s leading virtual education provider. Join us as we explore innovative approaches to help students thrive in the digital age.
What is Leadership Coaching for Innovation, and Why Now?
Tovah Sheldon
This is part one of a four-part series about Leadership Coaching for Innovation.If you’ve worked in education for any amount of time, you’ve probably felt it—that tension between what we know is possi
Exploring Literacy Growth and Engagement: An 8-Week Pilot of Shoelace Learning in the Classroom
Kristen DeBruler, PhD
Download this study as a PDFIntroductionMichigan’s Top Ten Strategic Education Plan was adopted in August 2020 to guide K-12 education stakeholders in working toward a common set of goals. The second
From Automation to Inspiration: The Role of AI in Learning Design
Generative AI has given instructional designers (IDs) exciting new ways to create courses that resonate more deeply with learners. It’s not about replacing the human touch; it's about leveraging AI tools effectively to boost creativity and streamline processes. With well-developed prompts and tools, AI helps designers focus on what they do best: developing lessons that really make an impact.
Understanding Teacher-Student Communication in Online Courses: An Interview with a Researcher
Michigan Virtual Learning Research Institute
In this interview, MVLRI researchers discuss key findings from a report highlighting how personalized, consistent, and timely communication in online courses can help students feel more connected to their online teachers and may also impact their success in the course. This blog also explores practical strategies for communicating effectively and building relationships with online students.
Project-Based Learning and Competency-Based Education Work Together at FlexTech: An Interview with an Educator
Christa Green
By blending project-based learning with competency-based education, FlexTech aims to provide a personalized path to graduation, meeting both academic standards and students’ personal growth goals.
Understanding What Motivates High School Students to Pursue Computer Science
Michigan Virtual Learning Research Institute
As computer science (CS) continues to grow in importance in K-12 education, understanding what motivates students to pursue this field is becoming increasingly vital. In a study, Dr. Aman Yadav from M
Evaluating and Maximizing Professional Learning: An Interview with a Researcher
Michigan Virtual Learning Research Institute
This blog digs into the key findings from two MVLRI research studies exploring educator engagement with professional learning (PL), their beliefs about implementing what they’ve learned, and insights into continuing to tailor PL to meet educators’ needs.
From Playtime to Purpose: How Hobbies Can Set Your Child on the Path to Success
Michigan Virtual
Hobbies aren’t just fun—they help kids grow. From building confidence to developing real-world skills, hobbies play a key role in helping children discover who they are and what they care about. In this post, we explore how parents and educators can support hobby-based learning and create space for curiosity, creativity, and long-term success.
Key Strategies for Supporting Disengaged and Struggling Students: An Interview With A Researcher
Michigan Virtual Learning Research Institute
In an era where virtual learning is becoming increasingly prevalent, understanding the best practices for engaging students online is crucial. Researchers at the Michigan Virtual Learning Research Ins
Solving the Pacing Puzzle: Course Design and Technical Considerations for Pacing in K-12 Online Learning
Kelly Cuccolo, PhD
Pacing is critical to student success in online learning, and supporting effective pacing is a team effort. This blog explores how Michigan Virtual staff leverages technology and course design principles to uplift student learning through proper pacing.
A Structured Approach to AI Integration: A Roadmap for the 24-25 School Year
Justin Bruno
Integrating AI into education for the 24-25 school year requires a strategic and well-structured approach. Michigan Virtual’s AI Integration Framework provides a roadmap for schools to assess their current capacities, engage stakeholders, develop policies, explore tools, and continuously refine their strategies to effectively harness AI's potential in enhancing teaching and learning outcomes.
Solving the Pacing Puzzle: Supporting Student Progress in K-12 Online Programs
Christa Green
In online learning, effective course pacing is crucial for student success. This blog explores how Michigan Virtual addresses course pacing challenges and develops effective pacing guides to support student learning.
The Power of Pitching in EdTech
Michigan Virtual
Explore key strategies and resources to refine your approach in EdTech entrepreneurship and discover how to navigate the landscape of innovation and drive transformative change in teaching and learning.
Out of Order, Out of Reach: An Interview with a Researcher
Michigan Virtual Learning Research Institute
In the ever-evolving landscape of education, online learning has become increasingly prevalent, offering students flexibility and accessibility to course materials. Recent research has delved into the
Solving the Pacing Puzzle: What We Know About the Importance of Student Pacing in Online Courses
Kelly Cuccolo, PhD
One key aspect that significantly influences student success in online courses is pacing, or the way students progress through course material over time. This blog explores the crucial role of pacing and how to provide students with the guidance and structure they need for success.
Charting Teen Passions: A Practical Guide for Guardians and Educators
Michigan Virtual
Teens are still discovering what excites them—and your support matters. This guide offers practical ways to help them explore their interests, build confidence, and stay curious. From everyday observations to thoughtful conversations, learn how to create a learning environment that helps teens grow with purpose.
Using AP Exam Data to Drive Discussions about AP Courses
Michigan Virtual conducted an analysis to understand the factors influencing whether students take AP exams. They found that higher course grades and course subject were associated with exam participation. However, other factors beyond grades also contribute to student achievement. This analysis helps Michigan Virtual reflect on their courses and improve support for AP students.
Faster vs Better: Finding the Best Opportunities for AI in Education
Justin Bruno
Move beyond efficiency and take an intentional approach to adopting generative AI tools like ChatGPT.
Essentialism in the Age of GenAI
Ken Dirkin
The rise of GenAI, while offering immense potential for innovation and efficiency, also brings with it significant environmental costs.
Highlights from the 2023 AI Summit
Justin Bruno
The 2023 AI Summit at Michigan State University explored the impact of AI on education, featuring presentations urging innovative thinking, emphasizing learner-centered design, and discussing personalization with AI. Attendees expressed optimism for positive change in education practices, recognizing the urgency to adapt to rapid technological advancements.
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