US Department of Education Celebrates Connected Educator Month 2013

In support of President Barack Obama's ConnectED initiative, the US Department of Education's Office of Educational Technology is proud to announce that October 2013 is Connected Educator Month.

Throughout the month, educators will have opportunities to participate in online events, build personal learning networks, and earn digital badges by demonstrating technology skills. Online communities help educators share effective strategies, reduce isolation, and provide "just in time" access to knowledge and expertise. However, many educators are not yet taking advantage of all the benefits of connected learning. Schools, districts, and states can dramatically enhance their professional development by integrating digital learning opportunities into their formal professional development and teacher quality efforts. "One of the most important things we can do to support teachers and students is to put modern tools in their hands, and give them access to the limitless knowledge and connections that the Internet makes possible," said US Secretary of Education Arne Duncan. Nearly 200 educational organizations are participating in Connected Educator Month. These organizations will provide a variety of interactive activities, such as webinars, live chats, open houses, contests, projects, and badges for connected educators to earn.