In gaming communities like Minecraft's, kids are taking the initiative to teach themselves—and others.

Young people today grow up fused to their digital worlds. And yes, being a screen zombie has its downsides. But instructors who harness students’ passion for social media can open their minds to a dynamic theory of education called “connected learning.” At its core, connected learning capitalizes on a young person’s immersion in digital technology and […]

Cultural Anthropologist Mimi Ito spoke at the University of Pittsburgh this week on connected learning—a new model meant to tap into the potential of information and online collaboration available to youth in a digital age. She sat down with us to share what connected learning means, and how to apply it to help today’s students.

In Pittsburgh and around the country, libraries are becoming “bustling community centers.”

Educators in the Pittsburgh suburb of Elizabeth say yes. Modeled after YOUmedia, and informed by new research about how kids learn today, an innovative digital space for teens opens at Elizabeth Forward High School.

The Institute for Museum and Library Services (IMLS) and the MacArthur Foundation recently announced the winners of a national competition that will create 12 digital learning centers for kids and teens. The winners include eight libraries and four museums. The cost of the program totals $1.2 million in grants. It’s a big investment and an even more exciting venture. […]