Digital Learning for Young Minds: Equity, Access, and Engagement in PK–6 Classrooms is a timely, comprehensive guide for educators navigating the evolving landscape of digital education. Grounded in research and best practices, this book offers a practical yet visionary approach to using technology to support equitable, inclusive, student-centered learning. From foundational concepts like digital citizenship and learning management systems to emerging tools such as AI-driven platforms and multimedia creation, each chapter equips teachers with strategies to foster creativity, accessibility, and critical thinking.
Designed for both pre-service and practicing educators, the book emphasizes Universal Design for Learning, inclusive instructional design, and equitable access to technology. Through authentic classroom examples, research-informed strategies, and adaptable digital tools, it provides a roadmap for creating engaging, future-ready classrooms. It invites educators to reflect on how technology, when guided by purposeful pedagogy and ethical responsibility, can expand opportunities for all learners.
Anne Tapp Jaksa, Ph.D. Professor of undergraduate and graduate Teacher Education, College of Education, Saginaw Valley State University, University Center, MI. Tapp Jaksa is the Chair for the American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education (AACTE) Board of Directors. She serves on the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) Board of Directors and is the Director of Professional Development for the University of Michigan Center for Digital Curricula. Her research interests focus on Artificial Intelligence (AI) within the P-12 and university classrooms and digital learning. Tapp Jaksa received the Teacher of the Year award when teaching P-12 and SVSU's Landee Award for Teaching Excellence at the university level. She is the author of several publications.
Alex St.Clair, M.A. is a first-grade teacher at McComb Elementary in Caro Community Schools and an adjunct faculty member at Saginaw Valley State University. He also serves as a data consultant and curriculum developer with the University of Michigan's Center for Digital Curricula, where he has presented on their deeply digital Roadmaps platform. His work focuses on integrating technology in early elementary education to promote student engagement and differentiated instruction. St.Clair has co-authored multiple publications on AI in education and digital learning, and has presented his work at SITE and MACUL conferences. His mission is to empower young learners and fellow educators through accessible, innovative, and inclusive digital tools.
