"Take a Deep Breath" - Rethinking 21st Century Teaching & Learning
On July 10th, Congressman George Miller encouraged participants at the NCTAF symposium to “take a deep breath” during this pause between presidential administrations to begin to focus on new directions for our schools to be competitive in the 21st century.
The Congressman noted, “…we have a school system that continues to look like the industrial age…and continues to operate on an agrarian clock.” (Watch a short clip of this speech, see video below.) Most schools still function in a way that is familiar and comfortable for the teachers and not the students. 21st century students are more proficient with digital technology than the students before them (and often their teachers too), they develop and construct knowledge differently, they are the most connected group, they are collaborative and resourceful, and their learning needs are not met in schools.
Congressman Miller called for schools and teachers that have the capacity to deliver a true 21st century education. How can schools move beyond the traditional structure to provide students with the skills and knowledge they will need to continue their education, work productively, and succeed in a global environment? What success stories can you share?
Labels: 21st century education, George Miller, global competitiveness, teaching
posted by NCTAF at
12:11 PM
1 Comments:
I am not sure if this would be considered a "success" story, but I have two examples of how the world of teaching and learning has changed since I began teaching 22 years ago due to the changes in our world of technology.
Years ago my students had penpals from North Carolina. We would write letters, send pictures, and items through the mail. We corresponded maybe 3-4 times a year.
Last year, my kindergarten class started a blog with another class from North Carolina. No longer did we need to send our letters through the USPS, instead we sent letters, reflections, video, photos, and links all within seconds. If I were a more advanced techie and our school had the capability, we could have students talk directly with each other through video conferencing. What was once a flat (letter) link to our friends across the country, now includes our voices, manners, and visuals in an instance. Amazing stuff!
I also mentored a new teacher in North Carolina online from California. It wasn't as good as having her next door to me, but our conversations were just as meaningful. Imagine the ability for teachers all over the country, world to communicate in an instant with each other. Think of the collaboration and networking that is possible now. It's an exciting time.
But I have to admit that even in this age of information and technology, teachers are not using what is available. At my own school there are teachers that never answer their emails or integrate technology in their curriculum. I am a novice in terms of what is possible, yet, among educators at my school, I am probably considered one of the more "advanced" technology users.
Maybe a better question would be, how can we educate and support educators that are intimidated by 21st Century tools for the classroom? We already know students are far more advanced with the tools of the 21st century then most of their teachers.
Jane Fung
Kindergarten Teacher, Los Angeles
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