Saturday, July 26, 2008

Chapter 1: New World, New Web, New Skills

The title of the chapter says it all! Everyday that I work and learn in the realm of technology leads me to newer ideas and concepts. Things are completely different from when I was in college earning my bachelor's degree, let alone when I was in grammar school. The most important idea I take from this chapter is that educators need to move away from the old way of teaching, which is "presentation-driven". In order to reach our students, we must adapt to using newer technologies (Web 2.0) which allows students to collaborate and share ideas and information. Students can hold discussions to reach a deeper understanding of the problem and hopefully find answers. I like the phrase used in terms of there are no longer gatekeepers to the Internet and how it is evolving into an open and democratic arena for information to be shared.
The 6 key elements for 21st Century learning is important for educators to keep in mind while we lead students into the job market of the 21st Century and beyond. The 6 key elements taken from a 2004 report "Learning for the 21st Century" are: "emphasize core subjects, emphasize learning skills, use 21st-century tools to develop learning skills, teach and learn in a 21st-century context, teach and learn 21st-century content, and use 21st-century assessments that measure 21st-century skills". Students use Web 2.0 tools in their daily lives, yet in their learning environment we have yet to grant access to these tools for their learning. Educators must bridge this gap in Web 2.0 tools not only promote creativity, but also foster collaboration and communication on a global level. Businesses rely on these methods and our students must be empowered with the skills to thrive and move forward in the 21st Century.

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