According to survey results released today by the Indiana Department of Education (IDOE), significant progress is being made in creating digital learning environments and providing schools with greater cybersecurity. In total, 80 percent of Indiana school districts now have initiatives aimed at providing a computing device for each student with more than half of those providing a device for each K-12 student.

The 2018 Tech Plan Survey achieved a 100 percent response rate from traditional public schools and covers key educational technology issues including student devices, social media access, digital content, technology platforms, virtual learning, cybersecurity, and bandwidth. In addition, bandwidth for schools is fueled by increased competition among internet service providers and new investments by the Indiana General Assembly.

Further, the expansion of technology enhanced learning environments gives rise to greater needs to defend against cybersecurity threats. Through the survey, school leaders indicated needs for developing staff and student awareness regarding cybersecurity risks, preventing and responding to the latest cybersecurity threats, and analyzing the overall position of their organizations with regard to cybersecurity defense.