May 2024 EdTech Catalyst: Elevating Education Innovation in Michigan!

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A Note from Michigan Virtual As the school year wraps up, we’re gearing up for our 2024 EdTech Catalyst programming! If you’re part of Michigan’s education community with an innovative idea or new business to enhance teaching or learning, here’s what you need to know.   Our EdTech Innovation Bootcamp is a live Zoom event taking place from June 17 – 20, 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. daily. It’s designed to help you develop your EdTech idea and deepen your understanding of education technology innovation and entrepreneurship. Participation in the Bootcamp is strongly encouraged for those planning to enter the Michigan Virtual EdTech Pitch Contest, although it’s not mandatory if you’re attending solely for the Bootcamp.   The EdTech Pitch Contest has two rounds. For the first round, submit your pitch deck and video by July 7, 2024. Five finalists will then present their pitches live on Zoom on July 18, 2024. Save the dates to participate or watch the final presentations!   For all event details and registration links for the Bootcamp, visit our EdTech Catalyst page.   Best, Scott Watkins Senior Director, Business Strategy

Get Innovative!  Have an innovative idea that you want to explore, grow, and share? Here are some opportunities and resources if you’re ready to launch!   EdTech Shark Tanks Are you an EdTech entrepreneur with a growing startup? If so, you might be ready for the 2024 EdTech Week Shark Tanks! The event is held in New York City in October, but participation applications are due June 15th.  Learn more on their website!   ASU + GSV Summit The 2024 ASU + GSV Summit brought together leaders in education, technology, and business over 4 days in mid-April to discuss and promote innovation and investment in the education sector. Michigan Virtual, with generous support from GSV, hosted a group of Michigan educators, including our 2023 EdTech pitch winners, at the conference, ensuring the voice of Michigan educators plays a role in shaping the future of education.   If you couldn’t attend but are interested in the conference, you can see many of the main sessions online in the GSV Video Library.

AI Lab Spotlight The team from the AI Lab at Michigan Virtual has stayed quite busy in the past month, as the topic of AI in education is still near the top of many discussions among educators and students. AI Literacy Day Michigan Virtual was honored to participate in the first National AI Literacy Day by hosting a webinar featuring a conversation with their AI Strategist, Justin Bruno, and sharing highlights of some of the work that Michigan Virtual has been doing with districts around the state. The team also continued its work with dozens of organizations to plan for professional learning and strategy implementation around the topic of AI in the 2024-25 school year. Many schools are forming task forces or committees to develop policy, deliver professional learning to staff, and engage in critical conversations with students about the role that AI will play in their lives and careers. Khanmigo Pilot The AI Lab is also concluding the first semester of its pilot of Khanmigo from Khan Academy. Twenty teachers and more than 650 students across 13 Michigan school districts participated in a pilot to learn how the use of this AI tutor might support educators and learners in Algebra 1 courses. Participants noted the benefits of having accurate, on-demand support and an avenue for students to have guided and guarded ways to leverage the power of generative AI. For more resources and updates on the AI Lab, visit our website.

Ready? Set? Pitch!  Whether you have a groundbreaking idea or want to witness the next big thing, the Michigan Virtual Pitch Contest is the place to be. Register for our Edtech Innovation Bootcamp (June 17-20) to help you prepare your pitch! Visit our event website for full information on the Bootcamp and the pitch contest.

Stay Connected Don’t miss out on the latest updates, insights, and opportunities Michigan Virtual has to offer. Follow us and stay connected with the Michigan innovation community using our socials link below.   Thank you for being a valued member of the Michigan Virtual community! Let’s continue to collaborate and shape the future of innovation together.   Did you miss our last newsletter? Read our April 2024 Issue

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April 2024 Updates from Michigan Virtual

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This summer, join Michigan Virtual on an educational enrichment and advancement journey. We offer various opportunities for both students and educators to grow and learn. Strengthen your math skills with the EdReady program or explore diverse summer and fall courses to expand your knowledge. Check out our newsletter for a glimpse into the transformative learning experiences waiting for you this summer and beyond. Let’s make this season a cornerstone of growth and discovery!

PROFESSIONAL LEARNING SERVICES

Understanding Unconscious Bias for Educators This self-paced course invites exploration into the impact of unconscious bias on learning environments, offering strategies to mitigate its effects while fostering a collaborative professional learning space to enhance the process. Learn More

Dive into OER Embark on a journey into the realm of Open Educational Resources (OER) through this course, where you’ll uncover the transformative potential of OER in education, gaining insights into their value, Creative Commons licensing, and strategies for leveraging OER to personalize and enrich learning experiences for both educators and students. Learn More

OTL: Supporting Exceptional Students Educators will delve into strategies for supporting diverse student populations, including those with disabilities, ensuring accessibility and equitable educational opportunities while earning a badge for course completion and potentially achieving the OTL Level 1 Mastery badge upon completing the entire series.  Learn More

STUDENT LEARNING SERVICES

Dive Into Summer Learning Discover new educational opportunities this summer with Michigan Virtual. Our catalog of more than 150 courses covers a full spectrum of learning, from English Language Arts to groundbreaking Science courses. Michigan-certified teachers deliver our flexible, paced learning, ensuring an enriching summer experience for students of all backgrounds. Learn More

Strengthen Math Skills Over the Summer The EdReady Math program, suitable for grades 4-12, is designed to help students strengthen and advance their mathematical understanding. It is an excellent way to master essential concepts and skills, boosting their confidence for the upcoming academic year. Make the most of your students’ summer by enhancing their math skills. Learn More

Secure Your Student Fall Success with Early Enrollment Get ahead of the school year with Michigan Virtual’s Fall enrollment. Over 200 certified courses, including AP classes and diverse electives, await. Enroll early for a seamless start to your academic plans. Plan Ahead — Enroll for Fall Today Learn More

Michigan Virtual LEARNING RESEARCH INSTITUTE (MVLRI)

National AI Literacy Day FREE Webinar Michigan Virtual is celebrating National AI Literacy Day by hosting a webinar exploring the impact of AI technologies in Michigan’s schools and the initiatives underway to cultivate AI literacy. Discover how schools are empowering educators with the knowledge and skills to navigate AI in our world. Learn More

Wiz Kid’s Introduction to Game Design with Roblox Discover the perfect blend of gaming and coding with Wiz Kid’s self-paced course. Recommended for ages 11-14, students will explore fundamental game design concepts and delve into multiplayer interaction intricacies using Roblox Studio. Learn More

Intro to Medical Careers Enrichment Courses Whether your child dreams of becoming a nurse, exploring laboratory sciences, or diving into diagnostic services, we have the perfect course to ignite their passion for the medical field. Take their learning beyond the traditional classroom and explore subjects that pique their interest with our complete Intro to Medical Careers series! Listen to the Podcast

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Download the Free Online Learning Program Self-Assessment Tool We’ve put together an easy-to-follow self-assessment tool, covering all the key areas you need to know about to ensure your online teaching is top-notch and help you identify your strengths and opportunities. Check it out!

Michigan Virtual, 920 Municipal Way, Lansing, Michigan 48917

April 2024 EdTech Catalyst: Igniting Innovation in K-12 Education!

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A Note from Michigan Virtual We’re often asked what prompted us to start our EdTech Catalyst program, including an EdTech Innovation Bootcamp and Pitch Contest. And with the 2024 program launching soon, we’ll take this opportunity to share the “why” behind it.   We started the program to help close the gap between what EdTech companies make and what classrooms really need. We believe that teachers are not just users of technology but also innovators who can help improve education. Our teachers, administrators, parents, and others in the education ecosystem know the everyday challenges and opportunities better than anyone else, making them well-suited to develop solutions.   Do you have an idea that will improve teaching or learning? Join us this summer during our Innovation Bootcamp and prepare for our EdTech Pitch Contest on July 18, where your idea could win a share of $22,000 in startup grants plus legal and marketing support. The 2024 Innovation Bootcamp will run June 17-20 with live morning sessions via Zoom. Stay tuned for signup information in early April!

Get Innovative!  Have an innovative idea that you want to explore, grow, and share? Here are some opportunities and resources if you’re ready to launch!   Google GSV Education Innovation Fellowship Do you know an innovative leader in education who’s at the top of their game in using technology to shape the future of learning? The Google GSV Education Innovation Fellowship is looking for exceptional instructional district leaders to join its network of change agents shaping the future of EdTech and education.  Nominations are due Friday, April 5. Northern Michigan Startup Week Innovators and entrepreneurs can attend a range of events celebrating entrepreneurship, innovation, and the growing startup community in Northern Michigan during Northern Michigan Startup Week from April 22-25. Check out the resources and services provided by 20Fathoms if you are an entrepreneur or want to start pursuing an EdTech idea in Northern Michigan.   ASU + GSV Summit Michigan Virtual, with generous support from GSV, will be hosting a group of Michigan educators, including our 2023 EdTech pitch winners, at the 2024 conference in San Diego on April 14-17. This event brings together leaders in education, technology, and business to discuss and promote innovation and investment in the education sector. Check out their video library for sessions from past conferences featuring speakers such as Condoleezza Rice, Sal Khan, Arne Duncan, and Sandra Day O’Connor.

AI Lab Spotlight The AI Lab has conducted workshops in more than a dozen school districts across Michigan with the goal of helping educators and administrators understand how to effectively use AI in their classrooms, ensuring they can leverage its benefits while navigating any challenges. Their work has been shared widely, with presentations at various state and local education conferences. A notable highlight was Ken Dirkin’s keynote presentation on AI in education delivered at the Michigan Career Education Conference, which provided valuable insights into the practical applications of AI in the field. For more resources and information on how AI is transforming education, we invite you to visit the AI Lab at Michigan Virtual. Here, you’ll find a wealth of materials to support your journey in integrating AI into your educational practices.

Ready? Set? Pitch!  Do you have an idea that will improve teaching or learning? If so, stay tuned for information on our 2024 EdTech Innovation Bootcamp and Pitch Contest. And while you’re at it, check out the 2023 EdTech pitch presentations from our five finalists. I hope we’ll see you in our final five for 2024!

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Stay Connected Keep up with the latest updates, insights, and opportunities by Michigan Virtual. Join us in fostering connections within the vibrant Michigan innovation community by following our social media channels linked below.   Thank you for being a valued member of the Michigan Virtual community! Let’s continue to collaborate and shape the future of innovation together.   Did you miss our last newsletter? Read our February 2024 Issue

Michigan Virtual, 920 Municipal Way, Lansing, Michigan 48917

March 2024 Updates from Michigan Virtual

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This summer, discover new teaching strategies and professional development opportunities, ranging from effective online communication to insights from the Ted Lasso TV series study. Let’s empower educators and students for a productive summer!

PROFESSIONAL LEARNING SERVICES

OTL: Communicating in Online Classrooms Discover the art of effective online communication as we delve into innovative strategies tailored for the digital classroom. Whether you’re engaging with students or stakeholders, learn how to navigate this dynamic environment with purpose and finesse. Learn More

Ted Lasso TV Series Study Join our Ted Lasso TV series study for educators, where we’ll reflect on thematic ideas from the show and how they apply to your classroom. Earn SCECHs as you meet peers from around the state to discuss what Lasso can illuminate about teaching, learning, and the world of education. Sign Up

Intro to UDL: Representation Unlock the keys to inclusive teaching! Explore Universal Design for Learning’s representation principle to ensure all students thrive, with practical strategies tailored for educators at every level and subject.  Learn More

STUDENT LEARNING SERVICES

Get Ahead This Summer: Discover Credit-Forward Opportunities Propel students forward in their academic journey with popular choices like Health, Personal Fitness, Civics, Economics, Geometry, Chemistry, and Biology. These courses can open new paths for your students this summer. Learn More

Credit Recovery Options: Back on Track For students looking to catch up, our Essentials program offers core courses like Algebra I, English 9, U.S. History, Geometry, Biology, and Economics. Explore our Essentials program to support your students’ journey back to academic readiness.  Learn More

Streamlining Success: Support for School Reporting We have streamlined our process to better support our partner schools in Michigan with their monthly REP requirements. Our dedicated customer care team is here to guide you through accessing Michigan Virtual courses and instructor information, ensuring compliance and ease in the reporting process. Learn More

Michigan Virtual LEARNING RESEARCH INSTITUTE (MVLRI)

Enrichment Course: Investigating Medical Careers This asynchronous micro-course introduces middle schoolers to the world of biotechnology, exploring groundbreaking advancements in medicine, prosthetic technology, and genetics research for just $10! Learn More

Michigan Virtual EdTech Pitch Contest and Bootcamp Sharpen your pitch skills at our June 17-20 Bootcamp, with our Pitch Contest dates to be announced soon! Stay informed by signing up for our EdTech Catalyst newsletter today! Learn More

Tune into Teach & Learn A podcast by D2L, for expert insights on integrating AI in education, featuring Michigan Virtual’s AI Strategist, Justin Bruno. Listen to the Podcast

CONSULTING SERVICES

Download the Free Online Learning Program Self-Assessment Tool Get hands-on guidance from a national bench of transformational leaders who’ve been in your shoes. Contact Michigan Virtual Consulting Services to discuss your school or district’s unique needs and explore how we can elevate learning through our tailored services. Check it out!

Michigan Virtual, 920 Municipal Way, Lansing, Michigan 48917

Solving the Pacing Puzzle: What We Know About the Importance of Student Pacing in Online Courses

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Hi MICHAEL,

The Digital Backpack — powered by Michigan Virtual — is your resource for everything online and blended learning, including  tips, tricks, & the latest research on supporting online K-12 students and, more broadly, using technology to innovate learning.   On occasion, we also dive into other topics relevant to Michigan’s educational community, such as social emotional learning, restorative practices, literacy, student-centered learning, and more!   This week, we’ve got some great stuff packed up for you. Check it out below!

By Kelly Cuccolo, Monday, March 4, 2024 12:45 PM   One key aspect that significantly influences student success in online courses is pacing, or the way students progress through course material over time. This blog explores the crucial role of pacing and how to provide students with the guidance and structure they need for success.

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Michigan Virtual, 920 Municipal Way, Lansing, Michigan 48917