History of The Learning Space

The Learning Space is a unique teacher-centric and teacher-based organization that supports teachers in their use of technology, so that resources can be most effectively integrated in the curriculum and used by students.

In 1996, The US WEST Foundation, working with the National Education Association, awarded the Washington Education Association a generous grant that made it possible for 570 public school teachers in Washington state to receive laptop computers and learn about the most effective use of telecommunications and technology in their classrooms and schools. The following year, each of The Learning Space teachers invited ten more teachers to join the network.

During the three years of the initial grant, this group of 570 educators has been engaged in building The Learning Space - which refers to both the group of teachers as well as an online learning network and community. Through their website at www.learningspace.org, teachers share lesson plans and new ideas for incorporating technology into the classroom. Learning Space members have also provided training as well as on-site consultation and project facilitation to their fellow teachers around the state. By sharing their experiences and knowledge, The Learning Space has created a teacher-based model for enhancing the way technology is used in the classroom, with the ultimate goal to improve student achievement.

Given its past achievements, The Learning Space Board of Directors decided to continue the work of The Learning Space through an independent, non-profit organization. In April 1999 non-profit status was awarded and the 'new' Learning Space was launched.