USDLC began as a leader in satellite delivery of distance education courses and professional
development then transitioned to teaching and learning through blended technologies. 

Now in the 21st century, USDLC is again leading the exploration of a new medium for
professional development --- PD in 3D Virtual through USDLC Star Island in Second Life.

Our theme is inspired by William Gibson's all-too-true quote:
          "The future is already here....
                                              it's just not very evenly distributed."

We hope to distribute the future a little more evenly as we continue this series designed
to give teachers a chance to hear from and talk with outstanding teachers who are leading
the way in some area of the furture that is already here, including: Web 2.0, 1:1 computing,
robotics, or serious gaming/3D Web.

Fittingly, the series is produced in the 3D online, virtual world of Second Life as well as
offered via Internet Radio with chat for interactivity for non-Second Life citizens.

An essential question has become: What and how will we need to teach a child of the 21st Century
so that child grows up to be fully literate?  

To explore this essential question we work to understand the old and new literacies and their implications
for learning and teaching across the curriculum exploring new media and technology, digital and scientific
literacy, and creativity.

USDLC is a winner of four highly competitive United States Department of Education Star Schools Grants.
Star Schools, a five-year federal grant, was designed to support projects that expand access to educational
resources, address specific educational needs, or enhance innovative practice.

The last USDLC Star Schools Grant received, STAR-Online, focused on integrating technology into the
classroom by supporting teachers with anytime, anyplace online professional development. 

As a partner of USDLC, Western Illinois University's College of Education and Human Services in Macomb
manages all aspects of STAR-Online and offers graduate credit for participation.  Visit www.star-online.org
for more info.

 
United Star is a nonprofit, multi-state educational consortium committed to excellence in teaching and learning through blended technologies. United Star is committed to ensuring that all students and educators, regardless of circumstance or geographic location have equitable access to high quality education opportunities.
 

© 2012 USDLC
All rights reserved.