About iABLE
Students learn in many ways and in a variety of settings. Through their academic careers, students gain knowledge and skills that may not be well-represented in their college degrees. A student may have learned practical skills such as mastering how to design a web site, participating in experiential learning, or attending a technology workshop. The iABLE provides a way to acknowledge the breadth of student learning.
Digital badges that represent academic achievements or skills are increasingly popular ways for universities to encourage students to demonstrate mastery of learning beyond classroom. The primary objective of this Individualized Achievement Based Learning Environment (iABLE) initiative is to create an open, self-directed learning repository of technology and professional skills targeted at extending and sustaining student learning beyond classroom. The goal is to establish an informal self-directed learning platform through a series of digital badges that will enable students to develop specific technology skills and connect what they have learned, anytime, anywhere, to academic achievement and career success.
This project was funded by Robert and Mary English.
Robert and Mary English
Mary and Bob were born in Illinois and graduated from Waukegan and McHenry public schools. They met at Illinois State University, where Mary graduated with a BS in English and Education, and Bob graduated with a BS and MS in Business. Later, Bob received his Ed.D. at Northern Illinois University.
Mary F. English Scholars
The Mary F. English Scholarship (MFE) was established at Northern Illinois University in September of 2000 by donors Dr. Robert and Mrs. Mary English. The Award assists and supports students in the College of Education through professional development opportunities supporting technology in the classroom. Recipients develop technical skills and gain experience utilizing technology as learning and informational tools.
For more information about Mary F. English scholarships please visit the NIU College of Education.