21^st Century Learning and Skills

by Camyl Gatchalian

In today’s world of competitive, globally connected, and advanced technology environment, Education plays a significant role in 21st-century learning. Educators and administrators are actively searching for ways to prepare students for the future. This blog will talk about the essential rules of the 21st century that will help student and educators prepare for the evolving real-world demand.

1. Student-centered

School is encouraged to have student-centered learning. The primary source of knowledge in the classroom should be of a student. In the 21st century learning, students will need to be able to acquire new information to solve problems on their own (Nichols, 2017). Different learning styles are encouraged in the classroom. Students are motivated, responsible, and are more engaged in hands-on activities. The focus of learning is about discovery, not the memorization of facts (Nichols, 2017).

2. Collaboration

Students focus on collaborating with others. Students should be encouraged to work together to discover information and construct meaningful ideas (Nichols, 2017). Collaboration allows students to recognize the different strengths, weaknesses and talents each person can bring in a team.  In addition, schools and educators collaborate with other educational institutions to share knowledge, information, feedback, and suggestion towards a significant improvement (Nichols, 2017).

3. Learning should have context

Students are encouraged to learn in different ways. The teacher guides as to the skills that need to be acquired by the students (Nichols, 2017). The teacher can make a point of helping students to understand how specific skills can apply in real-world situations. Students are motivated to learn something that has value and purpose (Nichols, 2017).

4. Schools integrated with society

Schools integrate with society by hosting, creating events, and encouraging students to join and help the community. Education plays a significant role to help students take part in this global community and find ways to impact others positively.

The image below is the seven most important skills students will always need in the 21st century.  

References:

Nichols, J. (2017). 4 Essential Rules of 21^st Century Learning. Retrieved from https://www.teachthought.com/learning/4-essential-rules-of-21st-century-learning/

TeachThoughtStaff. (2019). 7 Skills Students Will Always Need. Retrieved from https://www.teachthought.com/the-future-of-learning/how-to-prepare-student-for-21st-century-survival/