Welcome to Close Education, a leading provider of educational technology solutions in Indianapolis. As the education landscape continues to evolve, incorporating innovative learning technology has become essential for Indianapolis schools and educators. At Close Education, we are dedicated to partnering with schools to integrate EdTech solutions that enhance teaching and learning.
With a focus on personalized instruction, our goal is to equip Indianapolis schools with the digital tools necessary to meet the diverse needs of their students. Whether it’s through educational software, blended learning models, or technology integration in the classroom, Close Education strives to empower educators and transform the educational experience in Indianapolis.
Key Takeaways:
- Close Education offers personalized instructional technology solutions for Indianapolis schools.
- We partner with software companies to provide adaptive technology powered by artificial intelligence.
- Our focus areas include Reading, Math, and Social-Emotional Learning.
- Close Education is committed to supporting schools during the COVID-19 pandemic with online instructional tools and resources.
- Blended learning and the integration of digital tools play a crucial role in enhancing education in Indianapolis.
The Mission of Close Education
Close Education is dedicated to fulfilling its mission of providing the most effective instructional technology solutions to Indiana schools and students. With a strong belief in personalized instruction for all learners, Close Education focuses on Reading, Math, and Social-Emotional Learning programs. By partnering with leading software companies and harnessing the power of adaptive instructional technology powered by A.I., Close Education delivers targeted instruction that yields measurable and sustainable results.
Close Education recognizes that every student is unique, with varying learning styles, needs, and abilities. Through personalized instruction, students receive individualized attention and support, empowering them to reach their full potential. The use of adaptive instructional technology ensures that the instruction is tailored to each student’s specific strengths and areas for growth.
The integration of A.I. in education is a key component of Close Education’s approach. By leveraging artificial intelligence, Close Education’s programs continually analyze student data and adapt the instruction accordingly, providing real-time feedback and personalized recommendations. This intelligent technology helps students stay engaged, motivated, and challenged, leading to improved learning outcomes.
Measurable results are at the core of Close Education’s mission. By utilizing data-driven instruction and comprehensive assessment tools, Close Education enables educators to track students’ progress and growth over time. This data enables educators to make informed instructional decisions, identify areas of improvement, and implement targeted interventions. With the ability to measure the impact of their instructional programs, Close Education ensures that educators and students are on a continuous path of improvement.
Innovative Instructional Techniques
Close Education employs a variety of innovative instructional techniques to enhance the learning experience. These techniques include:
- Individualized Learning Paths: Students receive tailored learning paths based on their unique needs and learning goals.
- Competency-Based Learning: Students progress at their own pace, mastering skills before advancing to new concepts.
- Engaging Multimedia: Interactive and multimedia resources captivate students’ attention and support different learning styles.
- Data-Driven Interventions: Educators can identify students who require additional support and provide targeted interventions.
- Collaborative Learning: Opportunities for collaboration and peer-to-peer interaction enhance students’ social-emotional development.
Close Education’s commitment to personalized instruction, adaptive instructional technology, A.I. in education, and measurable results sets it apart as a leader in educational technology. Through their innovative programs, Close Education empowers schools and educators to create engaging and impactful learning experiences that prepare students for a successful future.
Laura Close – Founder and President
Laura Close is the founder and president of Close Education, a leading educational technology provider based in Indiana. With a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Indiana University and over 25 years of experience in the field, Laura brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the company.
Throughout her career, Laura has worked closely with Indiana school districts, implementing innovative reading and technology instructional solutions. Her passion lies in the diagnostics, implementations, and tracking of truly successful instruction that produces tangible outcomes for students and educators alike.
As the founder of Close Education, Laura is committed to leveraging her educational technology experience to empower schools and teachers with the tools and resources they need to enhance student learning and achievement.
Overview of Laura Close’s Educational Background
| Education | Experience | Expertise |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Indiana University | Over 25 years of experience in the field of education | Specializes in educational technology implementation |
With her deep understanding of the educational landscape and her dedication to staying at the forefront of educational technology advancements, Laura Close is a driving force behind Close Education’s continued success in transforming teaching and learning in Indianapolis and beyond.
Close Education’s Response to COVID-19
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact education systems worldwide, Close Education is dedicated to providing support to schools, teachers, and parents during these challenging times. Recognizing the need for effective distance learning solutions, Close Education has developed online instructional tools and resources that bridge the gap between traditional classrooms and remote learning environments.
Close Education understands the unique demands of distance learning and aims to empower educators with the necessary tools to facilitate engaging and meaningful virtual instruction. Their online instructional tools offer a wide range of features and functionalities that cater to the diverse needs of students, ensuring that learning continues seamlessly from home.
In addition to their online instructional tools, Close Education also offers comprehensive teacher support to assist educators in implementing their programs successfully. They provide webinars for data analysis, equipping administrators and teachers with the knowledge and skills needed to leverage data to drive instruction and monitor student progress effectively.
Furthermore, Close Education recognizes the importance of collaboration and community in navigating the challenges of remote learning. They foster an online community where educators can share best practices, exchange ideas, and seek guidance from fellow professionals. This collaborative approach ensures that educators have the support they need to deliver high-quality instruction in a virtual setting.
The Value of Online Instructional Tools
Close Education’s online instructional tools offer a wide range of benefits that contribute to the effectiveness of distance learning:
- Flexibility: Students can access instructional materials and resources anytime, anywhere, allowing for self-paced learning and accommodating different schedules.
- Interactivity: Interactive features such as videos, quizzes, and virtual simulations engage students and promote active learning in remote environments.
- Personalization: Close Education’s online tools provide personalized instruction tailored to the individual needs and learning styles of each student, ensuring a personalized learning experience.
- Engagement: Gamification elements and multimedia content make learning enjoyable and captivating, keeping students motivated and focused.
- Assessment and Feedback: Close Education’s tools offer robust assessment capabilities, including automated grading and real-time feedback, enabling teachers to monitor student progress effectively.
By leveraging the power of online instructional tools, Close Education enables educators to create dynamic virtual learning environments that foster student engagement, collaboration, and academic growth.
| Benefits of Close Education’s Online Instructional Tools: | Features |
|---|---|
| Flexibility | Access anytime, anywhere |
| Interactivity | Videos, quizzes, virtual simulations |
| Personalization | Tailored instruction for individual needs |
| Engagement | Gamification, multimedia content |
| Assessment and Feedback | Automated grading, real-time feedback |
Close Education as a Technical Assistance Partner
Close Education and Mindplay have fulfilled the requirements established by the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) to become a School Improvement Technical Assistance Partner (TAP). As a TAP, Close Education offers targeted support to schools in the implementation of online instructional tools, with a specific focus on enhancing learning outcomes and providing extended learning opportunities.
Furthermore, Close Education has obtained approval from the Indiana Department of Education as a Universal and Level 1 screener for dyslexia. This recognition showcases the commitment of Close Education to addressing the needs of students with dyslexia and supporting schools in implementing effective screening measures.
The benefits of Close Education’s Technical Assistance Partnership include:
- Guidance in the selection and implementation of online instructional tools
- Support in maximizing learning outcomes and providing extended learning opportunities
- Expertise in dyslexia screening and implementation of effective screening measures
The advantages of partnering with Close Education as a Technical Assistance Partner:
- Access to Close Education’s expertise in educational technology and instructional practices
- Personalized support tailored to the unique needs and goals of each school
- Assistance in meeting the ESSA requirements for school improvement
- Enhanced ability to address dyslexia screening and support students with dyslexia
By partnering with Close Education, schools can benefit from their technical assistance and expertise to ensure the successful implementation of online instructional tools and meet the requirements outlined by ESSA. Close Education’s approval as a dyslexia screener further enhances their ability to support schools in addressing the needs of students with dyslexia.
The Importance of Assistive Technology
Assistive technology plays a crucial role in improving the lives of individuals with disabilities by providing them with the resources and support they need. The INDATA Project, led by community outreach coordinator Nikol Prieto, aims to help individuals and families find assistive technology solutions to everyday challenges.
Under the guidance of Nikol Prieto, the INDATA Project offers various services to cater to the diverse needs of individuals with disabilities. These services include:
- Information and referral: Providing valuable information and connecting individuals with appropriate resources and assistance.
- Device demonstration: Offering hands-on demonstrations of assistive technology devices to help individuals make informed choices.
- Device loan: Providing temporary loans of assistive technology devices for individuals to try before making a commitment.
- Equipment reutilization: Facilitating the reuse of assistive technology devices to reduce waste and improve accessibility.
- Recycled computer programs: Supporting access to technology through recycling and refurbishing computer equipment.
- Alternative financing options: Assisting individuals in finding financial support to acquire the necessary assistive technology.
Through these services, the INDATA Project aims to empower individuals with disabilities, enabling them to overcome challenges and lead more independent lives. By leveraging assistive technology, individuals can access opportunities, engage in education and employment, and enhance their overall quality of life.
Assistive Technology: Enabling Independence and Inclusion
Assistive technology encompasses a wide range of devices, tools, and software that assist individuals with disabilities in various aspects of their daily lives. These technologies can be particularly beneficial in areas such as communication, mobility, education, and accessibility.
Assistive technology devices include:
- Communication aids: Devices that facilitate communication for individuals with speech or language impairments.
- Mobility aids: Assistive devices such as wheelchairs, walkers, and crutches that enhance mobility and accessibility for individuals with physical disabilities.
- Hearing aids: Devices that amplify sound for individuals with hearing loss.
- Visual aids: Assistive technologies such as magnifiers and screen readers that improve visual accessibility for individuals with visual impairments.
- Learning and cognitive aids: Software and tools designed to support learning and cognitive development for individuals with learning disabilities or cognitive impairments.
By leveraging assistive technology, individuals with disabilities can overcome barriers and achieve greater independence, inclusion, and empowerment. The INDATA Project, led by Nikol Prieto, plays a crucial role in connecting individuals with the right assistive technology solutions, ensuring equal opportunities and access to resources for all.
Enhancing Teaching with Technology
Schools across the United States have made significant progress in integrating technology into their classrooms. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, 98% of public schools in the US had internet access by Fall 2000. However, there is still a disconnect between the availability of technology and its effective use in the classroom.
Many teachers lack the training and support they need to fully utilize technology as a teaching tool. It is crucial to address infrastructure, software, professional development, maintenance, and long-term support to ensure that technology enhances instruction effectively.
Preparing Students for the Future
- Technology in the classroom is essential for preparing students for the future.
- By incorporating digital tools and resources, students can develop the skills they need to thrive in a technology-driven society.
- Technology helps foster critical thinking, problem-solving, collaboration, and creativity.
- Exposure to technology early on prepares students for higher education and future careers.
Progress in Schools
- Many schools have made advancements in technology integration.
- Interactive whiteboards, tablets, and educational software are becoming common in classrooms.
- Online learning platforms provide access to a wealth of educational materials and resources.
- Virtual reality and augmented reality are being explored as innovative learning tools.
Teacher Training
- Effective technology integration requires comprehensive teacher training.
- Teachers need support and professional development opportunities to confidently use technology in their classrooms.
- Training programs should focus on instructional strategies, software implementation, and troubleshooting.
- Ongoing support and mentoring can help teachers stay updated with the latest technology advancements.
By investing in teacher training and providing the necessary resources, schools can maximize the benefits of technology in the classroom. Students will be better equipped to navigate the digital landscape and succeed in an increasingly technology-driven world.
Infrastructure and Hardware in Schools
To effectively incorporate technology into classrooms, schools must have the necessary infrastructure and hardware in place. This includes building wiring, computers, peripherals such as printers and scanners, networks, LAN connectors, and wireless systems. The infrastructure should be designed to accommodate both PC and Macintosh computers, ensuring easy access to technology in classrooms. Additionally, projection capabilities, an appropriate student/computer ratio, and connectivity to the internet server or ISP are crucial.
Proper school infrastructure sets the foundation for an effective technology-driven learning environment. It allows educators to seamlessly integrate digital tools and resources into their lessons, enhancing student engagement and facilitating interactive learning experiences. With a robust network and wireless system, students can access online educational materials, participate in virtual discussions, and collaborate on projects effortlessly.
The distribution of computers across classrooms ensures that every student has equal access to technology. This promotes digital literacy and empowers students to develop essential 21st-century skills. It is important for schools to establish a suitable student/computer ratio, taking into consideration the number of students per class and the educational objectives of technology integration.
The Table below presents key components of school infrastructure and hardware:
| Infrastructure | Hardware |
|---|---|
| Building wiring | Computers (PC and Mac) |
| Networks | Peripherals (Printers, Scanners) |
| LAN connectors | Projection capabilities |
| Wireless systems | Appropriate student/computer ratio |
| Connectivity to internet server/ISP |
By investing in robust infrastructure and hardware, schools create an environment that fosters educational technology integration and maximizes its potential. Students benefit from the wide array of educational resources available at their fingertips, empowering them to explore, collaborate, and create in an increasingly digital world.
Importance of Software in Education
Software plays a crucial role in enhancing education. In addition to the basic package components that come pre-installed on most computers, there is a wide range of specialized educational software available to cater to specific learning needs.
Basic software packages typically include applications like:
- Word processors
- Spreadsheets
- Databases
- Presentation software
These applications provide students and educators with essential tools to create documents, analyze data, and deliver presentations seamlessly.
However, to support curriculum-enhancing teaching practices, schools should also consider incorporating specialized educational software. These applications offer targeted features and resources that facilitate interactive and engaging learning experiences.
Specialized software in education can include:
- Mathematical software for interactive problem-solving
- Language learning software for improving fluency and vocabulary
- Science simulations and virtual laboratories for hands-on experiments
- Art and design software for fostering creativity
By utilizing specialized software, educators can tailor their teaching approaches to meet the diverse needs of students, promoting effective learning outcomes.
Table: Examples of Specialized Educational Software
| Subject | Software |
|---|---|
| Mathematics | Mathematica |
| Language Learning | Rosetta Stone |
| Science | PhET Interactive Simulations |
| Art and Design | Adobe Creative Cloud |
These examples demonstrate how specialized software can complement traditional teaching methods and engage students in interactive learning experiences.
The Power of Blended Learning
Blended learning, which combines online and offline learning, has become increasingly popular in education. This innovative approach to learning offers numerous benefits for both students and educators.
Digital tools for education play a crucial role in facilitating blended learning models. These tools enable personalized instruction, adaptive learning, and the integration of multimedia resources. With the help of these digital tools, educators can create interactive and engaging learning experiences for students.
Benefits of Blended Learning
Blended learning allows for flexibility in teaching methods. It provides students with opportunities for independent learning and collaboration, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills. By combining online and offline resources, students can access educational materials anytime, anywhere.
Personalized instruction is another significant advantage of blended learning. Educators can tailor their teaching methods to meet the diverse needs of students. By utilizing digital tools, instructors can create individualized learning paths, tracking students’ progress and providing targeted support when needed.
The integration of multimedia resources enhances the learning experience. Online platforms offer a wide range of interactive videos, simulations, and virtual field trips that bring concepts to life and engage students on a deeper level.
Examples of Digital Tools for Blended Learning
- Learning Management Systems (LMS) – Platforms like Google Classroom and Canvas allow educators to organize and deliver course content, assign and grade assignments, and provide feedback to students.
- Collaboration Tools – Tools such as Google Drive, Microsoft Office 365, and Padlet enable students to collaborate on projects and share their work with classmates and teachers.
- Adaptive Learning Software – Adaptive learning platforms like Khan Academy and DreamBox provide personalized instruction based on students’ individual needs and progress.
- Virtual Reality (VR) – VR technology immerses students in simulated environments, enhancing their understanding of complex subjects like science, history, and geography.
Blended learning, supported by digital tools, empowers both students and educators to maximize the learning experience. By incorporating online and offline resources, educators can provide personalized instruction and engage students in a dynamic and interactive way.
| Tool | Description |
|---|---|
| Learning Management Systems (LMS) | Platforms like Google Classroom and Canvas that help educators organize and deliver course content, assign and grade assignments, and provide feedback to students. |
| Collaboration Tools | Tools such as Google Drive, Microsoft Office 365, and Padlet that enable students to collaborate on projects and share their work with classmates and teachers. |
| Adaptive Learning Software | Platforms like Khan Academy and DreamBox that provide personalized instruction based on students’ individual needs and progress. |
| Virtual Reality (VR) | Technology that immerses students in simulated environments, enhancing their understanding of complex subjects like science, history, and geography. |
The Future of Educational Technology in Indianapolis
Educational technology in Indianapolis is undergoing rapid advancements, paving the way for a future of technology-driven learning. As the classroom technology landscape continues to evolve, educators and schools in Indianapolis have the exciting opportunity to embrace innovative tools and strategies that enhance teaching and learning.
Close Education, along with other edtech providers, is at the forefront of these advancements, playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of educational technology in Indianapolis. By harnessing the power of technology, educators can create engaging and interactive learning experiences that prepare students for the digital age.
Advancements in EdTech
The advancements in educational technology offer endless possibilities for enhancing classroom instruction. From immersive virtual reality experiences to adaptive learning platforms, these innovations are revolutionizing the way students learn and educators teach. By integrating these tools into their teaching practices, educators can deliver personalized instruction that meets the unique needs of each student.
Technology-Driven Learning
Technology-driven learning goes beyond traditional teaching methods, empowering students to actively participate in their education. With access to digital tools and resources, students can explore subjects in depth, collaborate with their peers, and develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. By leveraging technology, educators can create dynamic learning environments that inspire creativity and curiosity.
Evolving Classroom Technology
The classroom technology landscape is evolving rapidly, with new innovations continuously entering the education sector. From interactive whiteboards to mobile devices and educational apps, these advancements provide teachers with a wealth of resources to engage students and enhance learning outcomes. By embracing evolving classroom technology, Indianapolis educators can stay ahead of the curve and deliver high-quality education that prepares students for future success.
| Benefits of Educational Technology in Indianapolis | Examples |
|---|---|
| Enhanced student engagement | Virtual reality simulations |
| Personalized instruction | Adaptive learning platforms |
| Improved collaboration | Online discussion forums |
| Developing digital literacy skills | Interactive educational apps |
As the future of educational technology unfolds, Close Education and other edtech providers will continue to innovate and provide cutting-edge solutions to Indianapolis schools. By staying at the forefront of technology integration, educators can create enriching educational experiences that empower students and prepare them for the challenges and opportunities of the future.
Conclusion
The integration of educational technology in Indianapolis schools is revolutionizing the way students learn and engage with their education. Thanks to the continuous advancements in EdTech solutions and the support provided by companies like Close Education, schools and educators in Indianapolis now have access to innovative tools and resources that enhance instruction and improve student outcomes.
By embracing educational technology, Indianapolis educators can create personalized learning experiences tailored to the unique needs of each student. Through the use of digital tools and adaptive learning platforms, students can receive targeted instruction and support, leading to improved academic performance.
As we look to the future, technology-driven learning will continue to play a pivotal role in the Indianapolis classroom experience. With each passing day, new EdTech solutions emerge, offering exciting possibilities for interactive and engaging learning. Indianapolis educators have the opportunity to harness the power of educational technology to prepare students for success in the digital age, equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge to thrive in a technology-driven society.
In conclusion, the seamless integration of educational technology in Indianapolis schools empowers educators to create engaging and interactive learning environments, ultimately enhancing the educational experience for students. With the ongoing support of companies like Close Education and the relentless advancements in EdTech solutions, the future of educational technology in Indianapolis is bright, and it holds immense potential to revolutionize the way learning takes place, both inside and outside the classroom.
FAQ
What does Close Education specialize in?
Close Education specializes in providing personalized instructional technology solutions to Indiana schools, focusing on Reading, Math, and Social-Emotional Learning.
How does Close Education provide targeted instruction for every student?
Close Education partners with software companies to offer adaptive instructional technology powered by artificial intelligence (A.I.), which provides targeted instruction for every student.
What is the mission of Close Education?
Close Education’s mission is to bring the most effective instructional technology solutions to Indiana schools and students, with a focus on personalized instruction for all learners.
Who is the founder and president of Close Education?
The founder and president of Close Education is Laura Close, who has a 25-year history of working in education and extensive experience in the field of educational technology.
How is Close Education supporting schools during the COVID-19 pandemic?
Close Education provides online instructional tools and teacher support to bridge the gap between traditional platforms and remote learning environments, along with webinars for data analysis and guidance.
What is Close Education’s role as a Technical Assistance Partner?
Close Education meets the requirements set by the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) to serve as a School Improvement Technical Assistance Partner (TAP) and offers targeted assistance to schools implementing online instructional tools.
What is the INDATA Project and what services does it provide?
The INDATA Project, led by community outreach coordinator Nikol Prieto, helps individuals and families find assistive technology solutions through information and referral, device demonstration, device loan, and alternative financing options.
How can technology enhance instruction effectively in classrooms?
To effectively integrate technology into classrooms, schools need proper infrastructure and hardware, software support, professional development, maintenance, and long-term support to ensure technology enhances instruction effectively.
What is the role of software in education?
Software plays a crucial role in enhancing education by providing specialized applications that support curriculum-enhancing teaching practices.
What is blended learning?
Blended learning combines online and offline learning, and digital tools for education play a crucial role in facilitating personalized instruction and adaptive learning.
How is educational technology evolving in Indianapolis?
Educational technology in Indianapolis is constantly evolving, with advancements in EdTech solutions creating new possibilities for technology-driven learning.
What is the future of educational technology in Indianapolis?
The future of educational technology in Indianapolis is bright, with technology-driven learning becoming an integral part of the classroom experience, preparing students for success in the digital age.
