Undoubtedly stated learning is taking place in a whole different way in the 21st century. Whether learning takes place through personal learning networks, through connectivism, literacies, or other educational settings, learning has taken a back road journey on a major interstate. Us, digital natives, have grown up with technology in our back pocket and that way of life is only becoming more prevalent in all walks of life! Classrooms are no longer full of chalkboards, pencils, and paper but full of diverse ways for learners to engage all students. I believe that in the 21st century we are engaging learners more so than ever before. If the teacher is a lifelong learner and has kept that positive attitude that BuyGitomer talks about in his Life Long Learning video, more students are headed toward success. As an educator it is critical for us to keep being life long learners for the benefit of our students. When we quit learning ourselves, our student’s engagement declines. How could we possibly motivate students when our motivation is null? You cant.
This 21st century only motivates me to continue being a life long learner, for the benefit of my students. The day I look at my “job” as a regular M-F 8-4 job is the day I quit. I am no longer an asset to the students of the 21st century. To me it seems that 21st century learners are so much more involved, engaged, and interactive with their education. The shift of teaching has taken place into questioning rather than telling. When I have my student helping out other students I always say “teachers don’t tell, they teach” Through teaching we engage problem solving skills, critical thinking skills, communication skills, and knowledge skills which allow students to become successful life long learners.
Sources:
A Vision of Students Today
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dGCJ46vyR9o
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