Is Change Happening?

The video Rethinking Learning: The 21st Century Learner clearly details that inspiration drives learning in students (2010). This is because when one is inspired by something, they are usually curious or interested in the topic. This curiosity or interest which peaks inspiration creates a desire within the students to learn as much as possible. Inspiration surrounding various topics does not always occur within the classroom, thus learning outside of the school is extremely important to the learning that occurs within the school (MacArthur Foundation, 2010). It is incumbent upon teachers to foster significant learning environments to create learning experiences and environments that link outside experiences to classroom learning. Moreover, teachers can expand learning opportunities by facilitating opportunities for reflection and appropriate use of digital technology (MacArthur Foundation, 2010).

When comparing today’s learners from those that reflect the industrial age, 21st century learners can be described in terms of active learners that learn through discovery opposed to 20th century learners that were passive learners that acquired knowledge largely through retelling (21st Century Educator, 2009). The main push is for today’s learners to be creative in nature, with the capacity to prepare for the unknown. There is still a need for formal education through teacher facilitation, as students have learning experiences informally. This has proven difficult for some educators as it requires students to have control of their learning (Lichtman, 2013). Moreover, schools have been labeled as risk adverse institutions (21st Century Educator, 2009). It is my belief many teachers are risk adverse, especially if they are in an environment where their job is dependent upon standardized tests scores. At this point having the skills to integrate formal and informal learning is essential. When the educator understands how to facilitate learning, with an understanding of the point the student needs to reach, it becomes easier to allow the student to engage in discovery learning while the educator guides the process and needed.

Most importantly, Lichtman (2013) noted that organizations must continue to evolve if we expect learners to evolve and acquire skills for the future. The unknown that comes with change can be scary and difficult. However, research has shown and proven that students learn best when they are able to have control over their learning. When instruction goes beyond simply memorizing facts, but developing deep understanding that often leads to additional questions, then true learning that prepares our students for the future is occurring.

References

21st Educator (April 2, 2009 ).21st Century Education vs. 20th Century Education. https://youtu.be/HiD1UqLPrOg

Lichtman, G. ( March 21, 2013). What 60 Schools Can Tell Us About Teaching 21st Century Skills. https://youtu.be/UZEZTyxSl3g

MacArthur Foundation (December 1, 2010). Rethinking Learning: The 21st Century Learner. https://youtu.be/c0xa98cy-Rw