Thanks to Ann Higgins for the heads up on legislation that promotes digital learning in the high schools. According to the Daily Session…

The House Education Reform Committee approved HF2127, sponsored by Rep. Pam Myhra (R-Burnsville), which would require high school students to receive at least one digital course credit before graduation. Schools would need to engage students with a “blended learning” approach, which uses technology to teach a subject. Requirements for students would be effective for those starting ninth grade in 2012.

I’ve written about education in the schools a lot lately – mostly because it’s coming up a lot. Schools are looking at innovative ways to bring technology into the schools. Other schools are looking at ways to bring digital learning into the curriculum – it seems that many people are enthusiastic – and I’ve said before I’m glad to hear it because I think in today’s workforce (never mind tomorrow’s workforce) digital proficiently is a requirement. I think people assume that kids know technology because they can text, game and download – but I think there’s still room for kids to learn to use critical analysis and communication skills online. The roadblock is the technology – and this article recognizes that barrier as well…

Critics of the bill worry that not all districts have the resources to add and manage digital courses. They argued that those that have the staff and funds are already taking steps to make digital learning a part of their curriculums.

While anyone is hard pressed to advocate unfunded mandates – it does seem like slowing down the innovation to meet the lowest tech denominator is not a good investment in the future.