BISMARCK, ND ( KXNET ) — Over the last thirty years as we’ve entered the digital age, schools have had to change with the times more than they ever have before.

Whether it’s by installing projectors in place of whiteboards or giving students laptops to use in class, many schools have found ways to integrate digital technology into their education systems.

A new survey looking at which states have led the way in educational innovation and which ones have lagged behind found that North Dakota is the third least innovative state for education in the country, ahead of only South Dakota and Nevada.

North Dakota placed 35th in the innovative education recognition category, 39th in virtual learning and education accessibility, and 48th in progressive education methods and opportunities.

Some of the most staggering rankings of the Peace Garden State are that it is 44th in schools that offer Advanced Placement courses, 48th in education charities, and 49th in Montessori schools, which emphasize hands-on learning and creativity. California, New York and Massachusetts, which took the top three spots on the list, ranked highly in those categories.

AP courses have become an integral part of the education of high schoolers, particularly those who are looking for a challenge or to knock out some college requirements. They also promote critical thinking, a key component of innovation at schools. A lack of emphasis on these classes, as well as hands-on learning, could keep students from immersing themselves in subjects and thinking critically about them.

To see the full ranking, visit Smilehub.org .

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