The shift in K-12 schools to digital products and services is gaining traction in the mathematics market segment. Approximately 28% of mathematics class time is spent using digital tools and/or digital content, according to respondents in a recent survey report from Education Market Research (EMR), a company providing analysis and data on the U.S. K-12 publishing market.
EMR’s recent report, "Mathematics/STEM Market, K-12: Teaching Methods, Traditional Materials Used and Needed, and Market Size," strongly suggests there has been a shift to digital in K-12 schools which can be documented starting in earnest in 2009. Along with providing data on the movement towards digital, the report gives readers insight from the educator’s perspective.
Increased spending, especially as it relates to the rush to compliance with the new Common Core standards and assessments, is the primary force pushing the $2.6 billion K-12 Math market ahead at a rapid pace. This trend is expected to continue through 2014-2015 and beyond.
In terms of significant obstacles standing in the way of rapid implementation of STEM education, lack of funds, lack of time, and lack of relevant teacher training are the major stumbling blocks, according to survey respondents in the report.
There were some differences noted in the report when comparing the responses of educators in textbook adoption and open territory (non-adoption) states. For example, the adoption states seem to be running ahead of the non-adoption states in terms of average digital usage time in the classroom, but the non-adoption states appear to be running ahead in terms of implementing the new Common Core. In fact, the survey report shows that Common Core was rated as more important by those in non-adoption states compared to those in adoption states.
For more information on this report visit http://www.simbainformation.com.
