Focus Area

Connectivity and Digital Equity

Training and consulting support for obtaining state, federal, and grant funding to help districts with access to, and improvements of, broadband connectivity, devices, and digital resources that increase equitable learning opportunities.

Working toward equitable access and opportunities for all students

 

Connectivity and digital equity are crucial in K-12 education, ensuring all students have equal access to online resources and digital learning opportunities. These factors are fundamental to closing the achievement gap, promoting inclusive education, and preparing students for a technology-driven future. Equitable access to reliable internet and digital devices enables students to engage fully in modern learning experiences, develop essential digital skills, and participate in an increasingly connected world.

The Learning Technology Center (LTC) is committed to supporting K-12 districts and educators in achieving connectivity and digital equity. We provide guidance on infrastructure planning, assist in identifying funding opportunities, and offer strategies for implementing 1:1 device programs. The LTC also helps districts develop policies and practices that ensure equitable access to digital resources both in school and at home. Through our resources and expertise, we aim to empower schools to bridge the digital divide, ensuring that all students have the tools and opportunities they need to succeed in the digital age.

Services
Resources
Events
Articles
Consulting

E-Rate Consulting

Free

Support for E-rate and related programs.

Consulting

Emergency Connectivity Fund (ECF) Support

Free

Support for Emergency Connectivity Fund (ECF).

Professional Learning

IETC Conference

November
$175+

The Illinois Education and Technology Conference, held annually in Springfield, brings together educators and tech experts to explore innovative teaching methods and leverage technology for enhanced learning statewide.

Service

ILTPP Purchasing Cooperative

Free

Save money and time through ILTPP cooperative purchasing contracts.

Network

LTC Online Community

Free

A free online community for educators, admin, and technology leaders.

Professional Learning

Regional Workshops and Events

Variable

Over 650 regional events and conferences on educational technology topics.

Consulting

Technology & Connectivity Funding

Free

Support for E-rate and related programs.

Professional Learning

Webinars

Free

Register for our regular webinar series and view recordings.

Podcast

One-to-One Podcast

Conversations from the heart of education and technology with Brian and Matt.

Video

School Law Update: Top Tech Issues for the 2022-23 School Year

Organizations Tools and Apps

Digital Bridge K12: Connectivity Toolkit

Digital Bridge K12: Connectivity Toolkit contains guidance and best practices to help you find and compare Internet options for students that lack home access.

Organizations

Connect K12

Connect K-12 is a free, actionable internet speed and pricing information tool for America’s K-12 school districts.

Organizations

ICN (Illinois Century Network)

ICN (Illinois Century Network) is a secure K-12 Broadband Network available at no cost for all Illinois K-12 public school districts. This program removes barriers limiting access to secure Internet bandwidth essential in today’s digital learning environment.

Report

The Broadband Imperative III

The Broadband Imperative III: Driving Connectivity, Access and Student Success report advocates for equitable, reliable, robust broadband access both on and off campus to prepare all students for life and work.

Tools and Apps

IL Broadband Interactive Map – Connect Illinois

IL Broadband Interactive Map is produced by the Illinois Broadband Lab and displays different levels of access for various stakeholders across the state.

Guidance

Instructional Technology Coach Funding

Despite their growing popularity and research to back their efficacy, funding for coaching programs can be sparse in many districts. These funding sources can help your district start and sustain a productive coaching program using state and federal funds.

Illinois Education and Technology Conference 2024 (IETC)

Nov 13, 2024
325

Learn, collaborate, and connect with fellow edtech enthusiasts and leaders during a multi-day professional learning experience ideal for collaborating one-on-one with peers and forging meaningful connections.

Tim McIlvain
Tim McIlvain
Executive Director, Learning Technology Center
Digital Citizenship Digital Literacy

Developing Digital Literacy

Today’s students need to know how to analyze and contextualize digital media to thrive in the classroom and beyond. Digital literacy can teach them how, and this week’s guest Darren Hudgins wants teachers to start teaching it directly.

Proposed FCC Changes & their Impact on Illinois

Changes are coming to several important FCC programs relating to funding and edtech. Tune in to learn how they’ll impact Illinois schools from program expert Mindy Fiscus.

Digital Equity

LTC Earns Two National Awards

The Learning Technology Center was presented with two State Educational Technology Directors Association (SETDA) Awards at the organization’s annual Leadership Summit and Ed Forum, including awards for leadership and our instructional coaching program.