Moving Classrooms into the 21st Century

In both 21st century, http://www.p21.org/ , and NETS for students and teachers, http://www.iste.org/standards/nets-for-students/nets-student-standards-2007 , there is a large focus on today's classrooms becoming more engaging and connected to a variety of informational resources in order to enhance education and learning.  

In order to continue to compete with an ever evolving world students need to be well poised in areas of creativity and innovation along with being able to think critically, problem solve and make decisions.  Students also need to be able to communicate effectively and collaborate with their peers in all areas of education as well as understand how to navigate through a wide variety of technology in order to enhance their learning.  

By aligning the common core state standards, that most states are currently implementing, with the framework of 21st century learning students are engaging with the curriculum more deeply and developing a stronger understanding of the content being taught therefore allowing them to be successful in both school and in life. 

While it is important for students to develop these skills in order to be successful it is imperative that teachers also grow in their knowledge and understanding of the tools and resources available to them to enhance learning withing their classroom.  In order to be effective in the ever changing classroom environment teachers need to inspire students through the use of technology to solve real world situations, develop activities to meet the needs of all levels of learners that incorporate technology rich tools, embrace the use of technology within the classroom and continue to educate themselves in new digital resources as well as serve as a role model to their students in how to act responsibly when communicating and researching using digital tools.    

Incorporating technology into the classroom curriculum will allow teachers to ensure they are meeting the needs of all students by providing a wider range of information, activities and experiences geared toward each level of learner.  This will ensure that each student is becoming more knowledgeable about the curriculum in a way that is appropriate for their learning ability and style.