Here are key factors for districts looking to implement e-learning as either a temporary solution or a long-term program for when unplanned school closures due to weather conditions or other events occur.

However, to ensure that students still have a voice and choice in their learning even if it happens outside school walls, districts must first examine a variety of factors, Ishmael explains. Factors Affecting the Adoption of E-Learning MORE ON EDTECH: Watch how district leaders can help facilitate remote learning. “It’s really about rethinking what our K–12 system is capable of doing and meeting the needs of students most often, that requires the integration of digital learning,” she says. Instead, they can stream classes from larger school districts that have them, Ishmael says. Plus, e-learning may be necessary for small rural districts that need to offer higher level courses for students but can’t hire or retain educators to teach them. Many school districts have been considering implementing e-learning for at least the past 10 years, says Kristina Ishmael, senior project manager of the teaching, learning and tech team for New America’s Education Policy program.ĭistricts see it both as an alternative to adding make-up days when schools close and an opportunity to teach future-ready skills. “So how do we make sure that learning can continue?” “This is a health emergency, but we know there are other emergencies that can happen, whether they are fires or tornadoes,” says Keith Krueger, CEO of the Consortium for School Networking. Today, many school districts are facing similar hurdles as they prepare for distance learning in response to the CDC’s recommendation to plan for extended closures due to COVID-19. From network and connectivity issues to teacher training, the district had a lot to work through to deliver instruction online and provide alternative assignments for students who lacked devices or internet access at home. Yet adopting e-learning - also called remote learning, distance learning or cyber days - wasn’t an easy feat. Since 2017, the district has been using digital tools to continue instruction and communication when inclement weather days, natural disasters and other emergencies force them to close their buildings. When faced with unexpected school closures, Gwinnett County (Ga.) Public Schools has a backup plan in place: digital learning days.

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