North America & Western

Europe Themes of
Innovation

Patrick Fernandez, Vanessa Mendoza & Jeffery Kontio

US: Charter Schools
Examples: iLearn Schools
What is it? Network of charter schools in NJ and NY, schools are still
considered public schools. Students are selected via applications process. The
goal is to provide a high-quality STEAM-based education in a digital learning
environment to empower students to meet and surpass grade level standards
and succeed in college and careers.
Why it’s an important innovation? Charter schools adhere to more
transparency measures and must meet specific finance and academic goals
than traditional public schools. They offer a more competitive academic
environment for its students than those in traditional public schools.
Sources:
ilearn.com
Njcharters.org
US & Canada: Adaptive Learning technology
Examples: Dreambox
What is it? Educational platform aimed at improving the math and reading
skills of early learners. Offers dreambox reading and math software which
continually assesses students to build confidence in skills.
Why it’s an important innovation? Adaptive learning tech allows a students
individual needs to be met both in a traditional and non traditional classroom
settings. Adaptive tech can personalize learning goals increasing confidences
and engagement with learning.
Sources:
Dreambox.com
educationaltechnology.net/adaptive-learning
Spain: Artificial Technology
Examples: Changed Dyslexia
What is it? This is an app which utilizes artificial intelligence used to diagnose
dyslexia in Spanish public schools. In 2019 it and its creator Luz Rello was
recognized by UNESCO with the ICT Prize.
Why it’s an important innovation? Dyslexia is one of the most
underdiagnosed and under reported reading disabilities in the world. Spain’s
use of this app and tech could improve literacy rates in the country and
others. It can offer assistance or services to students affected by Dyslexia.
Sources:
https://www.unesco.org/en/articles/spanish-application-using-ai-help-overco
me-dyslexia-wins-2019-unesco-ict-prize
Ireland: Coding and Programming
Examples: CoderDojo
What is it? This is an edtech app which is free on most mobile devices. It is
aimed for anyone aged 7 to 17 to learn to code, build a website, or create an
app or game. Dojos are a space for young people to explore technology in an
informal, creative, and social environment.
Why it’s an important innovation? Learning coding at a young age has many
benefits such as allowing creativity, improving behavior and engagement for
young learners. It also creates a skill which is highly sought in a modern tech
world.
Sources:
Coderdojo.com
https://potomac.edu/benefits-of-teaching-coding-in-the-classroom/