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We know that today, not all students have access to a plethora of online resources that help to enhance their learning experiences, and even when they do, these tech tools can sometimes fall short when it comes to keeping young people engaged and interested in learning.

What if there was a virtual tool that could successfully engage students and encourage them to want to learn even more?

That’s why we’re using platforms such as , created by AT&T, in schools served by �鶹��Ƶ Orlando.

In my work as a tutor, mentor and team leader at �鶹��Ƶ, I’ve been able to see firsthand how the lack of access to technology can impact a student’s learning.

Meghan, one of the students I work with, is incredibly bright but I noticed that she often struggled to complete online assignments. Her family shared an outdated desktop with limited access to the internet. Meghan often expressed her frustrations to me and how she felt left behind during group discussions when other students referenced virtual work. Meghan struggled most when it came to topics such as science, math, and ELA. She was on the verge of clocking out when it came to schoolwork and just giving up.

It was during this time that my partner teacher introduced me to The Achievery platform, tailored to digital resources.�� The ability to use this accessible resource during school helped Meghan to blossom. She loved the interactive lessons and how easy they were to follow along with. Every chance she got, she was online, exploring the platform and becoming more confident navigating the internet. The platform assisted in subject areas such as math, ELA, and science. It also assisted her through other relevant topics such as online safety skills, technology skills, and career readiness and life skills. It not only supported her academics but also helped her explore potential future interests and pathways.

Now Meghan is leading projects, looking into future opportunities for high school students, and even helping her younger sister with online classwork at home. This experience solidified for me the importance of platforms such as . Not only does the platform provide academic content, but it also empowers students by removing barriers, leveling the playing field, and unlocking their potential to thrive in a tech-driven world.

Now you may be asking yourself what exactly makes The Achievery, created by AT&T, so beneficial, especially for students who are navigating the complexities of this technological age?

Here are five things I’ve compiled from my own research and usage of the tool:

Customized learning experience

One of the things that stands out about The Achievery is its capability to offer personalized learning experiences. By leveraging cutting-edge AI and data analytics, the platform tailors content to each student’s specific needs, ensuring the material is both relevant and challenging.

The platform curates a diverse range of resources and adjusts the difficulty level based on students’ performance. This approach allows students to learn at their own pace, engage directly with material that aligns with their academic goals, and revisit difficult concepts.

Just as each one of us is different, so are each of our learning styles. This goes for the students I work with daily, as well. Some students learn best through auditory cues, some learn best through visuals, while others learn best through interacting with material hands-on. The Achievery allows teachers to work with students based on their personal learning needs, so that the students needing extra support can get it.

Collaboration & peer learning

A valuable aspect of The Achievery platform is the emphasis on collaboration and peer learning. The platform encourages students to work together on group projects and share their ideas.

We know that communication and teamwork are two of the today, and this platform creates an environment where students can strengthen these skills as they interact with peers and receive support from mentors. This collaborative approach not only contributes to academic success but also helps build students’ confidence in real-world situations. For instance, students might collaborate on creating a digital presentation, requiring them to work together to solve problems and thereby foster essential skills in communication, compromise, and teamwork.

Interactive & engaging content

The days when students simply read textbooks or listened to long lectures are gone! The Achievery platform embraces a vibrant learning experience through gamified learning experiences, quizzes, and hands-on activities. This is not only effective in keeping the students engaged but it also helps them to be able to retain information much more effectively. By allowing learners to actively participate in their educational journey, learning becomes fun, enjoyable and impactful. I have a student who absolutely despises math. After seeing how The Achievery platform incorporates comic books and uses short videos to illustrate the lessons, she has transformed into an engaged participant, eager to embrace the challenge of learning.

Bridging the digital divide

Technology undeniably plays a central role in education, yet not all students have access to high-speed internet or advanced learning tools. AT&T and �鶹��Ƶ are committed to bridging this gap by providing students with free access to educational resources, including high-quality videos, learning modules, and virtual tutoring. These free, online tools empower every student with the ability to take advantage of the vast array of online educational tools and opportunities, fostering a more engaging learning environment.

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the vital importance of addressing the digital divide and ensuring all students have access to the tools they need to succeed. Now, as schools continue to recover from the impact of the pandemic, we must strive to support all students, helping them rise and thrive.

Building 21st century skills

As the workforce continues to evolve, so do the skills students need to succeed. Proficiency in problem-solving, technology, and critical thinking are vital. This platform encourages students to develop these 21st-century skills by exposing them to a variety of technological tools and resources. By engaging with this platform, students become familiar with the types of tools they will likely use in their future careers, making them better prepared for the workforce. Incorporating interactive and engaging elements, these platforms help students adapt and thrive in a rapidly changing world, bridging the gap between traditional education and the modern workforce expectations.

Join the movement

Imagine a world where every student has the tools to succeed. The Achievery platform isn’t just a resource; it can be a lifeline for students and educators navigating the challenges of modern education. With engaging, accessible content and a commitment to bridging the digital divide, The Achievery empowers students to dream bigger, learn smarter, and reach further. Let’s break down barriers to success.

Join the movement to create a future where every student has the chance to thrive.

Explore how The Achievery, created by AT&T can transform your classroom, community, and most importantly, your students’ lives by today. Together, we can ensure that no student is left behind in their journey to success.

Jazz Solomon, �鶹��Ƶ Orlando ’24, currently serves as a senior AmeriCorps Team Leader at �鶹��Ƶ Orlando. She aspires to open her own nonprofit assisting foster youth aging out of care to be more prepared when transitioning into the real world.