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by: Jan Jackson
Technology has become very important in our daily lives. Many of us couldn't function on a daily basis without our cell phones, laptops, and iPads. In addition, our children are overly exposed and stimulated by video games, cell phones, and television on a daily basis. With the big boom of technology in today's society, there is a need to integrate technology in the 21st Century classroom.
Learning for the 21st Century Classroom emphasizes:
* Digital literacy -using communication,information processing, and digital research tools (email, presentation software, Internet)
*Critical thinking/Problem solving-using spreadsheets and design tools to solve complex problems)
*Interpersonal Skills-using personal development and productivity tools to enhance one's life ( e-learners, time managers, and collaboration tools).
The 21st Century classroom combines old content with new skills to create more rigor and relevance for students. Learners are encouraged to take creative risks in this environment while teachers are provided with more opportunities to foster creativity in their instruction. When students look at core knowledge through real-world examples, they are being prepared to compete globally by developing interpersonal communication skills while learning content.
There is some debate amongst educational thought leaders about this learning model. Some argue that technology does not aid in the retention of core knowledge for students, and the 21st Century Classroom Model focuses on teaching students how to "use" technology with less emphasis on core content. The "old school" way of teaching affords students a better chance to learn and master the 3 R's (Reading, Writing, Arithmetic). While there are those who oppose, the fact still remains that; children born in the 21st century are digital natives, and many American graduates are entering the 21st century workplace unprepared.
So do you integrate technology into your classroom?
Technology is becoming the next educational fad.Yes students need tech skills but we are wasting tax dollars on technology toys while cutting teachers and basic classroom needs. Do elementary kids need to spend 6 weeks using smart phones to research art careers and making video reports or should they spend 6 weeks actually creating artworks with clay, paint and real art supplies. Should PE teachers shorten the students' time to exercise or play games so they can integrate technology to meet arbitrary appraisals. Is it technology for technology sake or real skills needed in the work force?
It's called journalism. And those of you who were on your high school or middle school/junior high student newspaper or yearbook staff know exactly what I am talking about. The four Cs are never more alive than when students collaborate and critically think to create and communicate content for the entire community. Talk about real-world skills. In journalism, which now is not only print, but multimedia web and broadcast, students also "own" the content with a byline. Now, we're teaching free speech, ethics, civic engagement, media/information literacy, workplace skills, content creation skills and authentic assessment. Scholastic journalism in the real deal.