On our first day of Pinnacle, we have done a lot in an effort to lay the foundation for the rest. We happen to feel that education relies the mastery of 21st Century Skills as they exist beyond the catchphrase of the last decade. So the questions begs itself, if we know that children today are different we were while in school (nearly regardless of your age), why hasn't the educational machine changed to meet them?
Through twitter, we collect blog posts, websites and resources as we read them. Eric Sheninger, a prominent principal in NJ wrote this blog post about his own observations after attending a session held by Gary Stager. He shares what he feels has slowed education's transition to the new century along with Father Time.
The blog CTEduonline ennumerates the characteristics they feel are needed of the 21st century teacher to meet the needs of students.
What do you think? What skills do we need to develop and foster in our peers that are fundamental to reaching students "nowadays?" What has prevented us from automatically transitioning our practice as we find our audience differs from the past? Please leave a comment with your opinion.
It isn't all doom and gloom either. There are pockets of teaching occuring all over the country be it in isolated classrooms or progressive districts. Lisa Dabbs shared this post on her blog encouraging teachers to decide to "be remarkable" starting now rather than examining the increments to reach mastery of the new world.
My favorite was the last video we watched, it was quite inspiring and made me think, how can I make a difference? What is my opportunity? I am given children each year to make an impact on and so I guess that is my instrument of change. If I can inspire and help mold them into better people, I can make a difference. They then can grow up to make more changes and start a ripple effect. The first post made me come back down to think more real life about my teaching. My students are real people with real problems and obstacles and so I need to remember to be a real person to them. I need to expose them to real life material and things relevant to them. I need to help them connect to the outside world especially since my students have such limited experiences because of their age and environments. I agree I do need to teach them more than the curriculum, I need to teach them how to be productive people.
ReplyDeleteI believe that there have been several reasons (or excuses) that keep teachers/administration/the state from changing or evolving with students and changes in education.
ReplyDeleteFirst, I believe that, like most human beings, some teachers like to do what is easy. They find what works and stick with it for years. After awhile, what works becomes easy because it's repetition. Once teachers hear of a new idea or strategy, they not only get a little scared because it's new, but they also don't want to change. Change means spending more time making new resources or working with new ideas. Change is not always the word that people get excited about, and teachers are not exempt from that. In fact, some teachers run as fast as they can in the opposite direction screaming.
Also, I believe that it can be hard to keep up with the current ways students learn. Considering that I'm 25 and students are already learning differently than I did, that's (relatively) a fast-paced change. Sometimes, it may seem as if we're always one step behind how our students learn best because we observe them to change and improve our teaching strategies.
Last, I believe that most of it comes down to what it seems as if everything else in this world comes down to. Money. Yep. I said it... I mean, let's be honest. Teachers haven't had a pay raise in five years, jobs are being cut everywhere, and there is not an abundance of money for resources. Money is what much of the world comes down to and around what it evolves. Making changes to standards, tests, materials, and technology costs money, and lots of it. It takes time to implement big changes because money doesn't grow on trees.
With that being said, I definitely don't think anyone decided not to change with the students on purpose or just doesn't care. I just think that things like this take time and as long as we're doing what WE KNOW is best for our students...everything else will "pan out".
Also,
The idea is to put student learning in the forefront using experiences for students to develop essential skills. “...Creativity, problem-solving, critical thinking, technological proficiency, global awareness, media literacy, communication, and collaboration...promote ingenuity and self-directed learning.” Create a fluid learning environment. An environment in which both teacher and student are the learner, where creativity drives solutions. Challenging experiences will provide the opportunity for brilliance.
ReplyDeleteReflecting on 21st century skills and teaching I see that there is most definitely a disconnect for most educators. It is asking educators to think outside the box and therefore out of their comfort zone. I believe that some teachers will meet this idea with resistance only because of fear, fear of the unknown. What should I really be teaching my students? How should I be teaching my students? What are the 21st century skills anyway? These are, just to name a few, some fears that may impact teachers.
ReplyDeleteHow do we solve that problem? More money? No. Money won't change attitudes or instill confidence. Modeling and exploration? Yes. Educators need to see what a 21st century teacher looks like in action. They also need to be given a chance to explore resources, ideas, collaboration, etc. on their own. After all, isn't this what we are asking students to do in the 21st century?
"O, Captain, my captain". Isn't that what we all want to hear from our students? Education is not the key to success. Inspiration may well be. With the continual evolution of the technological age, schools strive to keep up with the changes, but we fall short every day. I realize we lack funding to keep purchasing newer and better, but how long can we use that excuse. Use what you have. I wager it's more than you think. The belief system often holds us back as well. Clearly, learning is a dirty business. If we gloss over certain ideologies and practices, are we REALLY facilitating learning? I believe in teaching a child how to learn more than what to learn. They must be problem solvers for the future. This means they will need to be able to use the tools provided, and, when necessary, find a new use for an old tool. Thinkers. We all must be thinkers. Society often holds itself back from progress because we fear the unknown, but if you only know what you've always known, how will you know what you're missing? Let our students teach us what they know. It might surprise you. Rest assured, if there is a new technology, they find it, have it, use it, or want it. I say, let 'em have it...with both barrels! For my part, I am using their (forbidden) phones this year for QR quizzes. Almost all of them have smart phones, so why not incorporate that technology? It doesn't cost us a thing, and the students will love it. See? Both barrels.
ReplyDeleteI think that the educational system hasn't changed to student based learning because of the impact on business (i.e. textbook companies, test prep companies). The pressure is on those companies to make sales and if we as educators move toward more student based inquiry learning it is possible that they will loose money. As for developing skills in our peers- We as Pinnacle leaders need to foster change in them. Encourage our peers who are afraid to step out on a limb and try new things. We can do this by collaborating and providing resources within our PLC's. We need to learn from our past experiences and realize that what may have worked for some of us is not going to work for students of today and tomorrow. We have to be able to be comfortable with the technology that is in our students hands and be willing to ask for help when we don't understand how to implement it in the classroom. We as teachers have to be willing to grow and change along with our students.
ReplyDeleteI believe that there are a lot of new characteristics that teachers need in order to reach the 21st century student and meet their needs. I think that teachers need to be fully open and honest with themselves first. This means teachers need to realize what they personally have as strengths and weaknesses. I believe that in order for teachers to grow as individuals, we need to accept, and not be intimidated, by things that we are unsure of.
ReplyDeleteI also believe that teachers need to be flexible. As seen in the CTE blog, it is important for teachers to understand that things do not need to be perfect in order to "try it out." If something doesn't work or go right on the first run, take notes and make the necessary changes for the second time around. I think this also goes along with teachers needing to be comfortable laughing at themselves. (I will be the first to admit that isn't easy! Everything has to be perfect...I'm working on it.) :)
I believe that what is holding us, teachers, everyone possibly, from any form of transition is the fear of the unknown. I absolutely am terrified of change, I'll be honest. However, I know that it is important in making strides and improvements in daily life, teaching, reaching students, and becoming a better person. I feel that not knowing what to expect in certain situations, discourages teachers from trying new things. I absolutely love the Lisa video and believe that teachers will definitely get inspired; however, when asked to implement or change things in their classrooms, they become overwhelmed. (Therefore, another characteristic needed in reaching our students is open-mindedness. Being open to suggestions and help with ideas, lessons, and everyday classroom components.)
Understanding that teachers are routine - planning individuals, I think it is important for us Pinnacle leaders to remember that our peers, along with us at times, are nervous about the "newness" of reaching our 21st century learners. I feel that it is important for us to be patient, understanding, and supportive in encouraging others to develop the necessary characteristics in reaching our wonderful, technology-savvy, 21st century students.
RIGOR:
ReplyDeleteAn effective 21st Century teacher uses an integrated curriculum and has high expectations for all students.
RELEVANCE:
An effective 21st Century teacher uses authentic problems and real materials in all areas of instruction.
RELATIONSHIPS:
An effective 21st Century teacher respects each learner, builds positive relationships, and creates a classroom community.
Synthesis of Characteristics of 21st Century Teacher:
Effective 21st century teachers consistently use rigor, relevance, and relationships.
Problems…
-Higher Class Sizes…
-Lack of Resources…
-Lack of Time…
However, effective 21st Century teachers troubleshoot these problems by collaborating with all stakeholders (students, parents, educators, and community leaders). For example, a teacher could use http://www.donorschoose.org/teachers to acquire resources for his/her classroom.
It is always difficult to implement change, whether it be a small change or large scale change. The value of 21st century skills is not of high value in many US schools. At this point so many teachers have had their "cheese moved" with the implementation of Common Core and Essential Standards. They find it hard to see the importance of the continuum of learning between the standards and become closed in to their own teaching standards only.
ReplyDeleteTeachers need to do what their students need no matter what resources are available. With both students and teachers they need to be respectful of needs, learn along with them, collaborate, and not be afraid of trial and error or taking risks. Fear among teachers has prevented change. This is the way it's always been done, and always will be done. As teachers retire and the environment of the "old school" is diminished, I feel there will be a transition in schools.
Technology requires us all to be students again. Since their is a new revolution every few days or weeks, we all remain learners. Teachers have a responsibility to Be the Change We Need to See in our students. We aren't teaching our subject areas...we are teaching people that will have a role in the direction of our world for years to come. They need to be educated consumers and producers in this Brave New World. They need to be constantly learning while teaching and sharing. They must be creative and great thinkers, while listening and taking note of the oppions and ideas of others. Where is this all of this learned...in the classrooms of great teachers. Great Article!
ReplyDeleteHow can I as an educator meet the needs of my students and make a difference. Students need to learn 21st century skills to be successful in our world. I feel like this is a challenge we all have to take on. We as a community are all a part of teaching our students. Now this poses to me that I really have to be more of a reflective teacher more now than ever. How can I design my teaching around all of the facets of the 21st century student. How will I integrate technology into each day in my classroom. Project-based learning will be a major component of the classroom. Will I be able to provide all that is necessary in my classroom. I have the motto of one day at a time. I can not let myself be overwhelmed by all of it.
ReplyDeleteI agreed a lot with what Stager had in the post about expanding opportunities for our students, having them address authentic problems, and providing more tools and materials. I don't think the tools and materials has to solely be technology, but should be outside influences as well (i.e. could we get more people from the community actively involved in our students lives?). I know that I became a Social Studies teacher because I didn't like being taught Social Studies by straight lecture day in and day out when I was in school. I also knew that I really liked the content and wanted others to like it as well. The second article where it said we need to trick students into learning I feel is becoming more often the case; students don't think they'll like the subject and need to be shown it can be interesting and relevant. I try to be as creative as possible in my lessons and are always looking for new ideas. I also like tying in other subject areas so that they can see the world is not some cut and dry little box, but this expansive cluster with groups within groups within groups, etc. I want to bring the world to my students in a way in which they know that, yes we are in North Carolina, but so many things outside of North Carolina can have different impacts on their lives. I also want to make sure they're prepared to go impact others lives in a positive way. I don't want to inhibit any of their dreams (being a professional athlete or the next pop star), but I also want them to have skills and knowledge to be able to pursue other avenues should the need arise.
ReplyDeleteBeing aware and sensitive to the ever-changing needs and challenges of our students must be a priority. Knowing what they face seems overwhelming, and even more overwhelming is the unknown. It is my charge to help guide them using my background, education, experience and love for teaching and learning to aid in the development as a contributing member of our community. Lisa reminded us to "Be Remarkable"! Let us not forget that the long days, workshops, professional development and parent calls are contribute to helping them be their best. Teacher characteristics show our students that we are on their side. Eric reminds us that new ideas in teaching, learning and technology need to be implemented so our students are ready to step into our community with everything they need to be successful. I believe Pinnacle is helping GCS teachers become and do on a daily basis!!
ReplyDeleteTo summarize so far, it looks as though we all have a grasp of the task that remains before us. The world is changing and education must change with it. We will discuss the ideas of experimentation and discovery further this week, aimed not only at students, but at teachers. Many of you mentioned that the key is to continue learning. Consider that in all things in life, we cannot sit still, but progress. You don't maintain your health by working out once or eating well for a few years. A doctor does not rely on his college education the remainder of his career. It is our place to set the pace for educational change and to ask the difficult questions.
ReplyDeleteI believe it takes a village of K-12 teachers to graduate 21st Century students who are ready to take on the world. I believe a village of passionate pinnacle leaders can inspire, encourage and model the way for those teachers. In the heart of a teacher is a passion for learning and teaching. We are constantly maximizing whatever resources we have to make an impact in the classroom. Regardless of the pay, effective teachers do what they do because it's what we were created to do. When you find your passion, there is joy, a sense of purpose and meaning, and energy. Creating energy not only in our classrooms, but in our schools as well, will provide the light for the future that our students need to be 21st Century ready.
ReplyDelete