Digital Learning Lab at the Statewide Afterschool Networks 2012 Meeting

The Challenge 

The annual meeting of the Statewide Afterschool Networks in early February 2012 coincided with the first national Digital Learning Day. In order to take advantage of this exciting event and to raise awareness of digital learning opportunities in afterschool and summer learning, Collaborative suggested the development of a ‘Digital Learning Lab’ where participants could learn about policy, practice and research related to digital learning, and connect with experts in the field.

Our Approach 

Collaborative designed a highly interactive and fun learning experience where participants could both hear from a series of organizations working to advance digital learning, and then could go deeper through either informal ‘Lab’ conversations or mini-presentations. Collaborative led the development of the Digital Learning Lab by:

  • Designed an interactive learning ‘Lab’ which consisted of a series of rapid-fire presentations by experts, followed by a deep dive by one organization, and an open, informal networking and learning experience where participants talked directly with the experts and tested their tools or products where applicable.
  • Invited and managed the group of expert presenters which included representatives from BAYCAT, CFY, Gooru, The After-School Corporation (TASC), Think Together and Wireless Generation.
  • Facilitated the rapid-fire presentations on key research, practice and policy issues related to digital learning, which provided participants with information on California digital learning programs and tools, current policy initiatives and assessment efforts.
  • Evaluated the session to gather information from participants on how to continue the conversation and advance the dialogue on digital learning in out-of-school time.
Our Impact 

As a result of our efforts, nearly 100 participants learned about leading research, policy and practice in digital learning. Additionally, because of the design of the Lab, presenters were also able to connect with one another, forming new connections and gaining new ideas about their work.

This highly interactive learning experience provided connections to the latest trends in digital learning in afterschool and connected the ongoing conference to a larger national dialogue about digital learning.  

Date Added: Apr 17, 2012
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