Digital Media

Educators wanting to incorporate digital media and mobile devices into their school curriculum don't have to search far for ideas. Free, educational eZines, websites and blogs abound and subscribers will find their email stuffed with an ever-growing collection of articles about innovative and intriguing uses of digital media. However, the vast array of ideas can be overwhelming and daunting. This production helps educators sort through the mountains of ideas by presenting educational innovations from selected institutions that have successfully integrated digital media into their instructional programs. Viewers observe educators and learners interacting with media and hear from teachers, administrators, and students about how these programs promote success in learning and literacy. Among the organizations featured are Quest to Learn, a New York school for "digital kids"; the Digital Youth Network in Chicago; a Smithsonian digital education program; the Science Leadership Academy in Philadelphia; and augmented reality, place-based learning in Middleton, WI. Weighing in throughout with thought-provoking reflections are media scholars, founders/directors of digital learning programs, game designers, literacy professors, and teachers. A PBS.org advertising message that scrolls across the bottom of the screen twice is somewhat distracting. This production will promote discussion, debate, and the desire to create digital media learning opportunities. It's am excellent tool to use at a professional development in-service to spark ideas among educators.—Rebecca James, Currey Ingram Academy, Brentwood, TN