Digital Learning
Students of today live in a world of digital media and tools. Utilizing video, audio, and multimedia in the learning experiences leads to higher cognitive thinking and creativity.
The Digital Learning Team at ESC Region 11 empowers educators to enhance teaching and learning through innovative practices and technology.
ESC Region 11 provides multiple tools and resources that students and educators can utilize for learning and instruction. Our team offers dynamic professional development in a range of topics, including AI in education, Canvas, Blended Learning, Technology Applications, and much more.
Whether you're looking to integrate cutting-edge tools or deepen your understanding of pedagogical strategies, we're here to support your journey toward meaningful, tech-enhanced education.
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Artificial intelligence (AI) in education leverages advanced technologies to personalize learning experiences, automate tasks, and provide data-driven insights that improve both teaching and learning.
The Digital Learning team assists educators in Region 11 by offering training and guidance on effectively using AI tools, developing AI literacy, and analyzing student data to inform instructional decisions, among other support services.
Blended Learning
Blended learning is a model that is relatively new in the education world. Blended learning takes the best of face-to-face learning in a classroom and marries it with the best of online learning. The great thing about this model is that it is so flexible that it can really be transformed to meet the needs of any classroom.
The most commonly recognized definition of blended learning comes from the Christensen Institute.
in part through online learning, with some element of student control over time, place, path, and/or pace; in part a supervised brick-and-mortar location away from home; modalities along each student's learning path within a course or subject are connected to provide an integrated learning experience.
We use the definition above as a starting point for our blended learning sessions, but what we came to realize is that in order for blended learning to be high quality there is another piece needed in the definition. To be successful in using blended learning to personalize learning for all students, teachers must use data to drive their instruction or what we call data-driven learning. If teachers are not using data to guide learning, then flexibility is being offered for the sake of flexibility and not to truly meet the needs of students.
Canvas
Canvas is a powerful learning management system (LMS) that streamlines course management, communication, and student engagement in both in-person and online learning environments.
Our Digital Learning Team offers professional learning opportunities to help educators maximize Canvas, including training on course design, grading workflows, student engagement tools, and data tracking. Through personalized support and hands-on sessions, we equip teachers to confidently integrate Canvas into their instructional practices.
Technology & Pedagogy
Our Digital Learning Team empowers educators by bridging technology and pedagogy to create meaningful learning experiences.
Through hands-on professional learning, we offer topics such as integrating digital tools, designing engaging blended learning environments, and leveraging instructional strategies that align with best practices in teaching and learning.
Technology Applications
The Technology Applications TEKS provide a framework to equip students with essential technology skills, including computational thinking, creativity and innovation, data literacy, digital citizenship, and other practical technology concepts.
From exploring coding in early grades to design thinking and integrating AI and computational thinking into core lessons, our digital learning team facilitates learning to blend technology with pedagogy, ensuring educators are equipped to accelerate learning and enhance student engagement, as they bring these standards to life in the classroom.