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