Education In A Pandemic: Remote Learning And The Digital Divide


August 13, 2020

Dr. Natalie Milman was a guest on WAMU's Kojo Nnamdi Show. Her segment was entitled, "Education In A Pandemic: Remote Learning And The Digital Divide." (Click the "Listen" button on the page to hear a recording of the show, or scroll to view a transcript.)

Per the episode description:

As coronavirus cases spike across the Washington region and beyond, most schools in the DMV are beginning the year online. But how will school districts accommodate students and families who lack access to the necessary technology and internet for a successful remote education?

In D.C., teachers, parents and legal advocates are pressuring the school system to equip each of the more than 51,000 students with a laptop and internet access.

So, how is the school district responding? And, across the region, what efforts are being made to bridge the digital divide? Can remote school really replace in-person instruction? And who will be most affected by the loss of the classroom experience?

We’ll discuss with digital learning experts and WAMU education reporter Debbie Truong.

Guests include:

  • Debbie Truong Education Reporter, WAMU
  • Natalie Milman Professor of Educational Technology and Director of the Educational Technology Leadership Program, George Washington University
  • Grace Hu Parent and Leader, Digital Equity in D.C. Education
  • Scooter Ward Senior Director of Technology, KIPP DC
  • Nicole Tuchinda Visiting Assistant Professor and Director of the Juvenile and Special Education Law Clinic, University of the District of Columbia