Resonating Theme: Funding for Research & Development of Digital Learning Metrics & Rubrics

October 24, 2006

News Update :: Tuesday, October 24, 2006

News

MacArthur Foundation Quests for Secrets to Digital Learning


The John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation said it would donate $50 million for projects that will help understand “the impact of the widespread use of digital media on our youth and how they learn.”

The Foundation announced that the research will test the theory that digital youth are different because they use digital tools to “assimilate knowledge, play, communicate, and create social networks” in new and different ways.

“This is the first generation to grow up digital – coming of age in a world where computers, the Internet, video games, and cell phones are common, and where expressing themselves through these tools is the norm,” said MacArthur president Jonathan Fanton. “Given how present these technologies are in their lives, do young people act, think, and learn differently today? And what are the implications for education and for society?”

The funding will support an array of projects in 2007, including:

-- A donation of $2 million annually for research and creation of a Web-based hub for information on digital media and learning.

-- MacArthur will publish six books 2007, online and in print, on topics will include credibility, civic engagement, and the ecology of games, as well as identity and digital media.

Human and Community Development

Digital Media, Learning & Education

Grantmaking in education seeks primarily to gain a better understanding of how digital technologies are changing how young people learn, play, socialize, exercise judgment, and engage in civic life.

Grantmaking also is exploring how learning environments – peers, family and social institutions (such as schools) – may be changing as well. Through answers to these questions, and the policy responses to them, the Foundation seeks to help build the interdisciplinary, cross-sector field of digital media and learning.

To learn more about this initaitive, visit the Digital Media and Learning website, or engage with grantees on the Spotlight blog.

An effort also continues to improve schools in Chicago neighborhoods where other Foundation-funded community revitalization activities are underway.

From the Field MacArthur Launches New Digital Media and Learning Initative On October 19, the MacArthur Foundation announced plans to build the emerging field of digital media and learning, committing $50 million over five years to the effort. The Foundation will fund research and innovative projects focused on understanding the impact of the widespread use of digital media on our youth and how they learn. Watch the webcast. Watch the video. Read the press release.