How to Teach the 21st Century Student

Wave goodbye to the blackboard.

In this age of socially networked and technology drenched youth, educators and institutions alike are having to radically rethink their teaching strategies. The imposition of authority and educational rigor are no longer enough; educators need to learn how to connect with their students. Students want to feel in control, have choices, be inclusive and social. This does not mean dumbing down education, but repackaging teaching methods.

Instructions

1. Install more IT devices in your classroom. Modern students respond well to the use of technology in the classroom. This can run from individualized computers, multimedia boards instead of white or blackboards, and so on. A quick Internet search will also show you a number of computer programs and apps to use for your specific subject.

2. Design a new curriculum based around 21st century skills and interests. This includes skills such as critical thinking, problem solving, social networking, collaboration, effective oral and written communication, analysis and provoking the imagination. It is important that classes are varied, often research-driven, outcome-based, filled with active learning, group-based as well as individual-oriented, and student-centered.

3. Become media literate. Learn about social networks such as Facebook and Twitter. Students are prolific users of these kinds of social media. They often know about smart phones, tablet computers, apps and more. Find ways to harness this interconnectivity in your projects. For example, asking students to write about topics trending on Twitter or their favorite app.

4. Globalize your classes and class projects. The Internet does not just connect students to other students in the same school or city, it reaches beyond state and national borders. Connect students to international and related projects or groups, ranging from connecting to a house-building project in the Philippines to aid givers working in Haiti. Modern students think more inclusively and want to connect to the world.

5. Go green. No matter your opinion on climate change, the environment is becoming increasingly important to 21st century students. Find ways to include green projects, environment-friendly resources and topics in your curriculum.

6. Make your lecture and class notes available for download on the Internet and on handheld devices such as the Kindle and iPad.

References

• IEAB: The 21st Century Student
• University of Wisconsin-Madison: Teaching the 21st Century Learner
• 21st Century Schools: Education in the 21st Century