Diversity in learning options

Learning is a way of life--not a pursuit. I think one of the changes we will see in the coming years is a diversity in learning options. I see a day when learning will take place at all times of the day and night, 7 days a week. Students will take face-to-face classes, online classes, synchronous virtual classes, and hybrid combinations. It will give learners the ability to customize their schedules and to pursue a wide range of interests. Learners in remote and rural areas will have access to the same resources as children living in thriving cities.

Technologies abound already to provide these opportunities. The changes that will create this new learning environment will be at the policy level. Education leaders will begin to honor the diversity of our learners rather than trying to make sure every one graduates with the exact same classes over the exact same time frame.