What is the 21st century learner look like? How is education changing to meet these types
of learners? I think these 21st
century learners are students who do not just “spit back” memorized content or
recall details but students that are beginning to be creative, insightful and collaborate
with peers to make meaningful connections about their learning. It may mean using certain software programs
like Prezi to collaborate with a peer to present their understanding of the
content they just learned in social studies class.
I feel that the internet has really changed education. The internet’s ability to have information
readily available to anyone that needs it and wants it has helped students go
beyond learning facts and recalling information. Social networking sites and other social
avenues have also changed how students display their thinking to a more global
audience. Students may ask themselves, “If
I post this, what will others think.”
Students can make waves with their comments not just ripples.
I also think the 21st century learner has to also
learn the new etiquette when it involves technology as well. When I went to
school, cell phones were not a norm to have.
Nowadays, even fourth grade students and even younger have cell phones
at the ready and some are even Smart phones.
I think students need to learn new social etiquette around using
technology. It is not okay to have cell
phones ringing during class. It is not
okay to be on Facebook or Tweeting when we are taking a test. It is not okay to copy and paste others ideas
and present it as your own. Technology
is a tool and should be used as a tool.
Excellent comments on the internet and the availability of information that we have - bordering on information overload. I think that we need to make sure students are able to identify good and bad sources, and understand that publication does not equal authenticity and veracity.
ReplyDeleteThe internet has proven to be a valuable tool for education. I cannot count how many times my students have said, "Mrs. Mackay, just Google it!" While it can be amazing to have all of that information at your fingertips, it can be dangerous. Students, especially in the younger grades, really need to be taught how to use the internet appropriately. And like you said Lauren, students need to learn the social etiquette for using technology.
ReplyDeleteTwo thoughts... 1) I agree with Mr. Graham, students must be able to sift through Internet content in a meaningful way. While I personally like Wikipedia, just using it because it is the first link that pops up is not always prudent. 2) Are the experiences you discuss in this post things that happen, or things you think could happen in your classroom?
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