In the 1960's Houston built the Astrodome. It was grand, technologically-equiped, a monument to scientific progress. Yet, it wasn't made for baseball. From the dome to the Astroturf, it was artificial and actually dangerous. On the other hand, Camden Yards is built for baseball. It still uses technology, but it is driven by the purpose of baseball. The scenic skyline connects the game to the community. It's practical, with great views. Yet, it is also creative and innovative. We'd like learning to be less like the Astrodome and more like Camden Yards.

The IMPACT approach is a way of doing education that incorporates some of the shifts for the Digital Age. Yet, it is not a technocratic, futuristic concept. Instead, we want learning to be authentic; to recover what we lost in standardized education and fit it within the ever-changing context of a digital world. If you want to be part of the dialogue, please join us.

The following are the core values of the IMPACT approach. I know, I know. I hate acronymns as much as anyone else. However, this one actually began when I brainstormed with students about what needed to change in education.

Involvement in the Community
Meaningful Learning
Practical Skills
Accountability
Creativity
Technology Literacy