MERC launches new website related to digital equity
Research and resources available to navigate the transition to online learning during COVID-19
The Metropolitan Educational Research Consortium (MERC), a center affiliated with the School of Education, has launched a new website offering research and resources related to digital equity and distance learning during the COVID-19 crisis.
“The pandemic has disrupted public schools in the metropolitan Richmond area in ways like we've never seen before. In response, we've launched this website to provide a rapid response to the research and resource needs in these school divisions,” said Dr. David Naff, assistant director of MERC.
A MERC research team is exploring key takeaways from the literature, producing local profiles of innovative practices, and sharing resources for educators, students and parents as they navigate the rapid transition to online learning.
For example, a podcast episode featuring Dr. Jonathan Becker, associate professor in the Department of Educational Leadership; Dr. Jesse Senechal, director of MERC; and Naff, contains examples of digital equity and how it looks in MERC division schools. There’s also information on what the research says about digital equity and 1 to 1 initiatives in schools from Andrea Woodard, a doctoral student in the VCU School of Education.
Digital equity refers to ensuring that students have equal access to technology, and the training necessary to navigate digital tools.
Users will also find profiles of innovative practices being used by teachers in the MERC region, and they will have the opportunity to share recommendation and resources for their own innovative practices – as well as those of other educators they know.
Learn more about resources for educators, parents and students about digital equity and distance learning on the new MERC website.