Partnership for 21st Century Skills

Congratulations! Your school/district is "21st Century" in its approach to education support systems. This means that, in general, over 75% of curriculum, assessments, instruction and professional development is focused on both core subject mastery and skills like critical thinking, problem solving, communication and collaboration. There is also a focus on themes like financial, civic and environmental literacy.

I agree with my school's highest scoring area: Education Support Systems. My school widely emphasizes on curriculum/objectives and making sure instruction and professional development directly relates to our school's standards. We also work to make sure our content is rigorous and taught to mastery. We are trained with resources that push critical thinking/problem solving, such as Delta Foss science kits. We also design workshop lessons, which promotes communication/collaboration between our students. Out of the possible 21st century skills, I agree that my school is doing an excellent job on Education Support Systems.

21st Century Skills

Below our my reflections and thoughts on 21st century skills pertaining to education.

How would you define 21^st century skills?

I define 21^st century skills as having the ability to adapt and adjust to the evolving world around you. Everyday, both adults and children are introduced to new concepts in our growing society. Having the courage to jump in and explore new technologies is a skill in itself. In the past a skill was defined by a pattern or specific series of events. Yet, in the 21^st century skills directly correlate to having an open mindset in order to allow yourself to adapt to the changes around you.

What is your role as a teacher in the student’s journey?

My role as a teacher is to provide students with guidance rather than manuals, so to speak. It’s our job to set up our students to be successful. This does mean keeping students adaptable and willing to be exposed to new technologies and advancements. One of our most important roles as educators is to make sure our students are technology literate to compete in the global economy.

How can you develop the skills it takes to help students?

Teachers can develop these skills by continuing their educations, as I am in the MAET program. But, it is also our responsibility to make the most of the resources available at our schools and the professional development offered to us. We, ourselves, are our best trainers in technology due to the fact that technology is constantly evolving. We will need to train ourselves at time and be willing to guide others along the way.

How can you apply this to your own school environment?

To apply these mindsets it’s important to be involved in technological initiatives and stay informed. It is also our responsibility to be driving forces in our schools in order to get our students the best resources and technology training.

What might be some of the roadblocks?

Some roadblocks include hesitant coworkers, students that are behind in technology skills, financial funds and simply the time required to invest in being a technology-enriched educator.

How can you apply these concepts in your MAET coursework?

I can apply many of these concepts as I embark on my MAET coursework. One of the most important concepts I need to embrace is change and the willingness to keep up with change. Although I may feel lost at times, it’s important for me to keep moving along so that I can be a part of the technology front within education. If I learn to overcome fears, I will be better equipped to prepare my students to embark on their technological journeys.