Several new schools are breaking with tradition so that they can deliver a more personalized experience to students. But in order to do this, they need certain autonomies, especially with respect to the ways they can use time, talent, and technology. Since the public charter sector is uniquely positioned to provide many of these autonomies, it may offer a particularly welcoming space for these “next generation” learning models. This issue brief, written for the National Alliance for Public Charter Schools, explores the ways that next generation learning models use time, talent, and technology, the autonomies they require, and how the autonomies in the public charter movement can align with what next generation models need to be successful. It also includes brief case studies of four promising next generation models in public charter schools.
Case Studies of Technology in Action
Opening Blended-Learning Charter Schools: Indiana School Aims for Success Through Innovation
This case study on Phalen Leadership Academy, an Indianapolis charter school, examines the school’s approach to blended learning in its first year. Commissioned by statewide charter authorizer the Indiana Charter School Board, the case study provides lessons for potential school leaders considering similar schools.