The Learning Transformation: A Guide to Blended Learning for Administrators

The Learning Transformation: A Guide to Blended Learning for School Administratorsprovides guidance to leaders for facilitating the transformation of a traditional school system into an environment that embraces technology while enhancing students' learning experiences. Leaders will utilize the six steps of the Framework for Digital Learning Transformation to prepare a school or district for blended learning environment that engages students with effective content, and creates a more productive learning environment for teachers. An instructional transformation is beginning in our schools. Classrooms are evolving into a blend of teacher-led instruction and teacher-guided digital content accessed by students on mobile devices. Blended learning, or the blending of classroom instruction with customized digital content, is an innovative approach for engaging students and giving them access to the tools and information they need to unlock the unlimited opportunities that now exist for learning anytime and anywhere students have access to the Internet. With the integration of Web-based, technology-rich activities and education methods into the existing brick-and-mortar school structure, blended learning can offer students new opportunities to learn in a self-paced, learner-centered environment. School leaders can undertake a digital learning transformation for their students that is data-driven and sustainable. With an understanding of the different models of blended learning classroom environments, a clear vision for the goals of the school or district, targeted professional development for teachers, a well-planned infrastructure, and committed resources, a student-centered blended learning environment is within reach."

About the Author :
Dr. Debb Oliver hasbeen an active instructional technology integration specialist for more than 15 years and iscommitted to supporting districts and teachers through systemic change, especially in the area of blended learning. Sheresearched and developed the Framework for Digital Learning Transformation with a focus on helping school districts plan and prepare for the pedagogical shifts inherent in integrating technology in order to activate learning and improve student achievement.Debb spent 18 years as a teacher and leader in public education. She holds a doctorate in Education Leadership and Instructional Technology from Idaho State University. Debb lives in Dana Point, California. You can follow her on Twitter @_debboliver."