A new way to learn.(Editorial)

The world is getting smaller. How many times have we heard that phrase iterated?

Without question, we have become a global society, thanks to the latest technological developments that connect people and nations, and keep us connected in near real time. For the most part, we think of this technology in terms of business and politics. Yet, some of this same technology is now connecting students to their peers and to experts, whether they are in a different state of even a different country.

When I was in elementary school, the school district dabbled in ah early form of "distance" learning, though on a very basic level. It involved the teacher tuning in to a TV channel dedicated to educational material produced by the state. At designated dates and times, teachers would show specific broadcasts to augment and extend concepts taught in the classroom. Of course, this only occurred about once every few months; nevertheless, it was always a treat to watch and hear someone, anyone, than the same teacher we had day in and day out for the entire year. The class was especially attentive during these special times, even the boy who otherwise seemed to get into trouble almost daily.

Today, as part of a program called the Immersive Education Initiative, students in K-12, as well as those in higher-education institutions, utilize digital technology to explore 3D environments, play interactive learning games, and virtually collaborate with others remotely. According to Aaron Walsh, founder of the Initiative, reaching children through digital media is a must in today's society where students--even those in kindergarten--are well versed in the ways of video, audio, gaming, and other types of media. And if they aren't up to speed, today's classes are designed to accomplish that goal.

Just last week, my 11-year-old son had to study for a social studies quiz. Sure, he had to look over his textbook, but the crux of the material was on a series of ...