Online community Epic-Ed launches today with backing of US Dept. of Ed & others

In an effort to support “all stakeholders going through digital transition within technology-enabled learning environments,” the federal government is teaming up with a state university and a social networking consortium in launching a new online community called Epic-Ed.

“Epic-ed will provide K-12 educators, district leaders and other community participants with a unique channel to get connected and develop strategies for navigating the digital transition,” said CoSN CEO Keith Krueger in a prepared statement. “With increased peer-to-peer interaction and greater connectivity, epic-ed members will have an opportunity to learn from each other, share ideas and ultimately implement effective plans to help ease the transition and maximize the benefits of technology-enabled learning environments.”

The United States Department of Education, the Friday Institute for Educational Innovation at North Carolina State University, and the Consortium for School Networking will launch the online community Aug. 22. Avaliable resources will include free downloads such as frameworks and acceptable use policies, community discussions, progress tracking, district profiles and more.

“Ensuring that educators have every opportunity to be connected with peers and experts who can help them be successful is critical,” said Karen Cator, director of the Office of Educational Technology at ED, in a prepared statement. “Now, more than ever, we can share ideas, information and resources and more fully support teachers every day by leveraging the convening and distribution power of the Internet.”

More details at epiced.org.