Professional Development
Expert Network Offers Free Coaching on Equity, Inclusion and Digital Learning
Every Learner Everywhere has assembled a network of equity and digital learning experts to provide free professional coaching for higher education faculty, course coordinators, instructional designers and academic leaders across the United States. The goal of the "Expert Network" is to advance "equity and inclusion in blended and online learning models by offering one-on-one advice around issues related to digital learning, including courseware selection and digital pedagogy," according to a news announcement.
"The global pandemic, coupled with an increased awareness on racial inequities, is propelling years of digital learning work," explained Jessica Rowland Williams, director of Every Learner Everywhere, in a statement. "While no one would wish for the struggles of 2020, it is up to us what happens next. Our challenge to the field is to turn this crisis into an opportunity to focus on how to create quality courses that include equity at the start. If we follow best practices now, we can ensure long-term advantages for all students, especially those who are often marginalized."
The network was created in partnership with the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE), a nonprofit focused on using technology to transform teaching and learning, accelerate innovation and solve tough problems. The network's coaches represent a wide variety of expertise, from STEM instruction and digital humanities to race theory, digital pedagogy and more.
"The challenges of 2020 for educators and leaders in both K-12 and higher education are unprecedented, but disruption can pave the way for innovation," commented ISTE Chief Learning Officer Joseph South. "ISTE is proud to partner with Every Learner to offer coaching focused on equity and digital learning through the Expert Network, which offers that critical piece of tailored, one-on-one attention to address the authentic challenges that practitioners bring to the table. As such, it's a great complement to existing Every Learner assets and helps ensure that equity is at the center of teaching and learning decision-making."
For more information, visit the Expert Network site.
About the Author
Rhea Kelly is editor in chief for Campus Technology, THE Journal, and Spaces4Learning. She can be reached at [email protected].
