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 […]

Education equals schools—right or wrong? That deceptively simple question kicked off the Harvard Family Research Project (HFRP) web conference on October 15. “Creating a Conversation About Anywhere, Anytime Learning” was the second installment of HFRP Interact, a yearlong series that explores family engagement in the context of out-of-school learning.

Mentoring programs are expanding in Pittsburgh. And research shows these relationships do much more for teens than just boost math and reading scores.

Amy Eshleman is spearheading the expansion of Learning Labs at libraries, museums, and other cultural institutions in cities across the country. The unique digital spaces are designed to inspire teens to become creators and makers, not just passive consumers of digital media.

Many say no. The libraries of the digital age are becoming community learning spaces, adopting innovative methods to engage a new digital generation of learners.

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. […]