We’ve moved into an age of learning much different from even ten years ago. Today’s student has “grown up digitally.” “They, by the age of 21, have spent 10,000 hours playing video games, sent 200,000 emails and spent 10,000 hours on a cell phone. We are now capable of processing more information in 24 hours than the average person 500 years ago used to process in a lifetime”(Teaching the 21st Century learner). Because of time spent with multiple forms of media, these students tend to have a better and faster grasp on technology concepts than their teachers. Technology is changing the way that learning takes place and also helps teachers to enhance concepts to meet the needs of children.
21st Century Learner
-
able to multi task
-
uses sound and images to convey content and better understand concepts
-
needs to be actively engaged in the classroom
-
collaboration with peers is the best way for them to learn
-
fascination with new technology
-
want to learn through exploration of concepts (virtual trips/visual activities)
-
very interactive with classmates and the curriculum
-
practical applications of real world content
-
learning no longer stops when school does: can continue after school with chat rooms, etc on home computers.
-
97% of students feel that technology is a key part of education
-
most students admit to having email accounts(81%) , blogs, wikis, etc
21st Century Teacher
-
teambuilding activities to help students feel more comfortable in their learning environment
-
collaboration with peers
-
collaboration with peers from other areas of the world
-
projects should include multi-media activities
-
allow students to create lessons/parts of lessons
-
preparation for jobs in the real world using technology
-
students should be allowed to TALK and CREATE!
-
Use of web for instant access to facts and information
-
students are more creators than just stationary learners in the 21st century classroom
21st Century Curriculum
-
more use of media tools to enhance learning and prepare kids for working/living in the changing society
-
students need to participate actively in the learning process through technology
-
internet safety should be a part of the classroom routine
-
technology goals should be made aware to all staff members as an essential addition to the curriculum
-
assessment of technology standards.
