Application 4:21st Century Skills

Application 4: 21st Century Skills In browsing through Partnership for 21st Century Skills, I thought that the website was informative. Thornburg stated that a multitude of skills will be needed in order for students to function in the 21st century (Laureate, 2010). Students must be prepared to operate new technologies (Laureate Education, Inc., 2010). It is essential that educators and stakeholders stay abreast of emerging technologies and provide assistance within the school setting (Laureate Education, Inc, 2011). I was surprised that a number of resources are available to download in PDF format. I was also disappointed that the state of Georgia was not on the list of state initiatives. I think that the 21st century skills maps can help me develop a new understanding of cross-curriculum issues present with 21st century skills. This makes information both interesting and informative. I agree that 21st century skills professional initiatives will prepare teachers and administrators to implement 21st century skills into the school’s curriculum (Laureate Education, 2011). Professional growth should be an element of an all-inclusive emphasis on 21st century skills, coupled with current standards and assessments. The different opinions on the presented site help me to see the benefits of integrating technology within the school’s existing curriculum daily. However, classroom teachers must have ongoing support and have access to innovative tools to address this growing challenge (Laureate Education, 2011). I did not agree on the topic that in the 21st century, US education success will be based on student acquisition of 21st century skills. Students cannot acquire adequate concrete skills without being facilitated. Therefore, educational leaders and policy makers must work collaboratively to develop and put programs in place. They must seek alternative measures to train teachers and help them leverage current and existing technology within the curriculum. The implications for both my students and I will encompass doing what it takes to prepare my students to function beyond the classroom setting.



References

Laureate Education, Inc. (Producer). 2011: Skills for the 21st Century [DVD]. Understanding the impact of technology on education, work, and society. Baltimore, MD:


 Laureate Education, Inc. (Producer). 2011. The emergence of educational technology. [DVD]. Understanding the impact of technology on education, work, and society. Baltimore, MD: