As Michigan schools embrace digital transformation, preparing students for online assessments has become a top priority. From state-mandated tests to classroom evaluations, students need more than just academic knowledge—they need the digital skills to navigate online platforms effectively. Learning.com’s Michigan K-8 Digital Literacy Program has emerged as a game-changer, empowering schools with tools to enhance student readiness.
Below, we explore how Michigan schools are leveraging this program to prepare students for success, with insights and best practices shared by educators during a recent webinar.
Integrating Digital Skills into Daily Learning
Gone are the days when digital literacy was seen as a separate, specialized subject. Today, schools across Michigan are embedding digital skills into daily classroom activities. This integration ensures that students not only meet academic goals but also develop the technological proficiency required for online assessments.
Beale City Junior Senior High School provides a powerful example. Before adopting Learning.com, their approach to digital literacy was fragmented, with various teachers introducing bits and pieces of coding, keyboarding, and online safety across different classes. Now, with a centralized curriculum, they ensure consistency and eliminate redundancies, freeing teachers to focus on their core subjects.
Tips for Success
- Incorporate digital literacy lessons into scheduled time blocks like “WIN time” (What I Need) to provide students with focused, uninterrupted practice.
- Align digital literacy lessons with core subjects. For example, use graphing tools in science or STEM classes, as suggested by Barb Light from Sault Ste. Marie Area Schools.
- Leverage existing curriculum to teach essential skills like typing and computational thinking, reducing the burden on core teachers.
Research:
Assessment Proficiency
Learn how districts improved student computer-based test proficiency up to 7 times.
Districts developed students’ digital skills including computer fundamentals, typing, digital citizenship and online safety, web browsing, email and online communication, visual mapping, word processing, spreadsheets, databases, presentations, computational thinking, and coding fundamentals.
Includes Title I schools.
Leveraging the Digital Readiness Pathway
The Digital Readiness Pathway, part of Learning.com’s K-8 program, is a powerful tool designed to build students’ skills progressively. With its engaging, gamified structure, the pathway provides students with a step-by-step approach to mastering digital tools while earning rewards like avatars and stars.
For Michigan schools, this pathway has proven instrumental in preparing students for the unique demands of online assessments. By completing the auto-assigned lessons, students build familiarity with tools such as digital calculators and interactive graphs, which are frequently used in standardized tests.
Tips for Success
- Use the pathway for independent study, summer enrichment programs, or supplemental learning stations.
- Highlight gamification elements like rewards to motivate students to engage with the content.
- Encourage teachers to explore additional lessons in the EasyTech library to customize learning based on student needs.
Offering Comprehensive Teacher Training
Teacher readiness plays a critical role in the success of any digital literacy initiative. Michigan schools are addressing this by providing robust professional development opportunities for educators. Learning.com’s on-demand training center and in-person workshops ensure that teachers feel confident integrating digital tools into their classrooms.
For instance, schools that participated in Learning.com’s training sessions reported significantly higher engagement among both teachers and students. These sessions not only familiarize educators with the curriculum but also foster collaboration among staff, creating a supportive environment for ongoing learning.
On-Demand Webinar:
M-STEP Aligned Digital Literacy Program
Michigan schools are preparing students for success on online assessments through the Michigan K-8 Digital Literacy Program.
Hear directly from:
- Sault Area Public Schools
- Muskegon Public Schools
- Beal City Jr/Sr High School
Tips for Success
- Pair experienced teachers with new staff to facilitate peer learning and mentoring.
- Encourage educators to use on-demand training resources for continuous skill development.
- Recognize teachers who excel in implementing the program to foster motivation and collaboration.
Aligning Curriculum with State Standards
Online assessments often require students to demonstrate skills beyond academic content, such as typing essays, navigating digital tools, and managing online test interfaces. By aligning their curriculum with state standards, Michigan schools ensure that students are well-prepared for these challenges.
Learning.com’s curriculum includes lessons on coding, computational thinking, and presentation skills, all of which align with Michigan’s computer science standards. For younger students, this preparation begins with basic tasks like typing and using a mouse, gradually building to more complex skills required for tools like digital rulers and calculators.
Tips for Success
- Develop a scope and sequence to map digital literacy skills to grade-level expectations.
- Simulate test environments during classroom activities to familiarize students with the tools and processes.
- Incorporate digital literacy lessons into other subjects to reinforce cross-disciplinary learning.
Ensuring Equitable Access
Ensuring that all students have access to technology and digital literacy instruction is a critical step toward leveling the playing field. Michigan schools are addressing this through strategic investments in technology and creative implementation models.
For example, Muskegon Public Schools utilize technology specials to deliver the curriculum, ensuring that every student has access regardless of classroom resources. Similarly, Sault Ste. Marie Area Schools have equipped every K-8 classroom with computer carts, allowing students to use the curriculum seamlessly during class.
Tips for Success
- Assign dedicated technology teachers or paraprofessionals to implement the curriculum in schools with limited resources.
- Monitor fidelity of implementation to ensure consistent usage across classrooms.
- Recognize students and teachers who demonstrate exceptional use of the program to encourage participation.
Learning.com’s EasyTech: A State-Aligned Solution
Alignment with Michigan’s Standards
Learning.com offers a digital literacy curriculum aligned with Michigan’s standards, supporting schools in meeting educational requirements.
Its tools prepare students for success in online assessments by seamlessly incorporating technology skills into the curriculum.
Comprehensive, Engaging Content
Learning.com’s EasyTech provides students with engaging, hands-on activities that build foundational and advanced digital skills.
Through interactive lessons, students gain practical experience essential for navigating assessments like the M-STEP.
Support for Educators
By equipping educators with user-friendly resources and professional development, Learning.com ensures that digital literacy is integrated effectively into teaching.
This support allows educators to focus on fostering student success in a digital landscape.
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Conclusion
As online assessments become more prevalent, Michigan schools are leading the way in ensuring their students are prepared. By integrating digital skills into daily learning, leveraging the Digital Readiness Pathway, supporting educators with training, aligning with state standards, and ensuring equitable access, schools are setting their students up for success.
