I feel The Partnership for 21st Century Skills web site was extremely helpful in making me aware of what a 21st century learner is, what their needs are, and what is expected of them once they complete their schooling. The Framework for 21st Century learning is a nice visual that highlights the 21st century skills. I explored each skill, and now have new learning of what each skill is, and what it involves.
I live and work in New Jersey, and what suprised me about this site is an article I read from the NJEA titled "21st Century Skills-The Days Ahead" by Kathy Hurley. The article states that New Jersey is a leadership state that is working with Partnershp for 21st Century Skills in order to prepare students to succeed in the work environment. In my distict, we only recently received a few smartboards and airliners. I have two computers in my classroom and only one works. I know that professional development is now offered in operating a smartboard, but nothing but articles has been distributed in order for educators to understand how to incorporate these 21st century skills in the classroom. One of the problems my district experiences, and many others I'm sure is the issue of funding. I don't see how these 21st century skills can be incorporated successfully without the technological tools to aid these educators. There are many educators such as myself that are interested and dedicated to teaching 21st century skills, but the question is, how can we accomplish this without the financial support of our district? I am specializing in technology in order to help my students succeed. In addition, my school has really been working with their staff to inform us of these skills,and it is our first step. The next step will be incorporating these skills in the classroom, and waiting for further professional development to be offered.
I really don't disagree with anything on this site, I just wish there were more specific ways for educatiors to incorporate these 21st century skills. I know professional development is offered by this site, but it would be nice to have some specific imput and examples of how to go about accomplishing this.
As an educator, I am going to continue helping myself by being a "high performing teacher" and a lifelong learner. Although a "Digital Immigrant" I am absolutely trying to give it my all and teach to how these "Natives" must be taught in order to meet their needs. My students are only in first grade, and I am trying to provide a foundation for them. Hopefully each year that passes, our state will see the importance of 21st century skills and provide funding for technology so our students can reach success and be prepared for the work environment they will be entering!
Reflection
13 years ago
Posts
I completely agree with you! The website was great, but it does need more specifics in certain areas.
ReplyDeleteIt is easier to involve technology in a high school than in an elementary school. It is exciting that you are incorporating technology in your first grade class!
Best of luck!
As you learn how to use the technology in your classroom will you post blogs or create PowerPoint presentations that will allow you to teach others at your site how to use the technology you've learned how to use?
ReplyDeleteMaybe you could collaborate with teachers in your district and create your own professional development instructional videos where you utilize the technology you're discussing in order to teach someone how to start using that particular technology and then provide different examples of how to use those technologies in the classroom. It would most likely start out very grade specific according to how you would use it in your classroom, but could grow to showcase examples of students using the technology.
Carol,
ReplyDeleteAs you mentioned, funding is an issue with technology. My district has a technology saavy superintendent so technology is a bit of a priority for us. However, I know about all of the funding issues going on in New Jersey right now since I am originally from there and have family and friends there. I do not see technology being a huge priority with all of the budget cuts you will be going through. Unfortunately for your students they will be the ones that will be effected by the budget cuts. One idea I had to get more technology in your classroom - can you borrow other teacher's computers to get enough computers for half of your class for a certain period of time? This way, students will collaborate with each other while using technology.
As for professional development, I agree with kvmartin's comment on seeing if you can get some ideas together. Maybe you can start small by showing your grade level something and then maybe expanding out from there.