Guest Commentary: Rural Education and Technology

Jesse Ward is a policy analyst for the National Telecommunications Cooperative Association and recently wrote a report on the status of digital learning in rural America.
"Rural Education and Technology" focuses on how educators are incorporating digital tools into the classroom.
In a report on Ward's speech to the Organizations Concerned About Rural Education, Rural Community Building, a division of the American Farm Bureau Federation wrote, "There are many benefits to online learning, according to the NTCA data collected. Not only does this type of learning appeal to student needs, but it allows for customized instruction for all types of learners and opens door that might not be accessible, particularly to rural students. Schools can offer online courses for AP classes, foreign languages, math and science and many electives to satisfy students’ needs or interests.
"Using broadband," the report on Ward's presentation continued, "teachers from rural areas can work from home to teach classrooms far removed from their geographical location."
Click here to read more about Ward's presentation and the NTCA report.