21st Century Learning

9 Characteristics Of 21st Century Learning

The label of “21st Century learning” is vague, and is an idea that we here at TeachThought like to take a swing at as often as possible, including:

–weighing the magic of technology with its incredible cost and complexity

–underscoring the potential for well thought-out instructional design

–considering the considerable potential of social media platforms against its apparent divergence from academic learning

Some educators seek out the ideal of a 21st century learning environment constantly, while others prefer that we lose the phrase altogether, insisting that learning hasn’t changed, and good learning looks the same whether it’s the 12th or 21st century.

At TeachThought, we tend towards the tech-infused model, but do spend time exploring the limits and challenges of technology, the impact of rapid technology change, and carefully considering important questions before diving in head-first.

The following take on 21st century learning developed by TeachThought is notable here because of the absence of technology. There is very little about iPads, social media, 1:10 laptops, or other tech-implementation. In that way, it is closer to the “classic” approach to “good learning” than it is the full-on digital fare we often explore.

The size of the circles on the map are intended to convey priority.

9 Characteristics Of 21st Century Learning

1. Learner-centered 

2. Media-driven (this doesn’t have to mean digital media)

3. Personalized

4. Transfer-by-Design

5. Visibly Relevant

6. Data-Rich

7. Adaptable

8. Interdependent

9. Diverse 

Would love to hear your thoughts in the comments section!

Standards for the 21st Century Learner

Standards for the 21st Century Learner

 

Notes:

-Reading is the foundation of everything: decoding, comprehension, interpretation, and development (p. 2).

-Be safe, responsible, ethical, and fair online (p. 2).

-Utilize all technology skills to prepare for the future (p. 2).

-All kids need equitable access to information (p.2.)

-Information literacy includes: digital, textual, visual, and technological (p. 3).

-Students must develop socially as they develop academically (p. 3).

-Use inquiry-based learning processes and stress real-world connections (p. 4).

-Put things in context with background knowledge (p. 4).

-Be able to identify misconceptions, biases, and conflicting information (p. 4).

-Be Creative! (p. 4).

-Respect Copyrights! (p. 4).

-Self-monitor and self-assess (p. 4).

-Learn how to organize your gained knowledge (p. 5).

-Learn to "accept, reject, or modify" information appropriately (p. 5).

-Always seek other viewpoints (p. 6).

-Connect with and respond to various literature genres (p. 7).

-Get involved in social networking to expand your horizons (p. 7).

-Transcend your academic requirements (p. 7).

-Look for ways to grow personally and aesthetically (p. 7).

Reflection:

          This quick guide to 21st century standards is a concise list of the skills that educators intend for learners to master. Notice that the standards detail foundational skills as well as promoting personal development and encouragement to transcend assignment requirements.