technology

I have been reading a lot lately about the importance of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education and how it plays a huge part in preparing for and succeeding in the kind of workforce our country needs. 

Why it that kids is seem to lose interest in STEM related studies before they hit middle school? They are born natural problem-solvers, acting as mini-scientists – tasting, touching, building, and experimenting, as they explore the world around them.  What happens over the course of a few short years that would cause a third of fourth graders to lose interest in science?  And a few short years after that – research shows 50 percent of eight graders deem it irrelevant to their education or future plans. Science – irrelevant!? Really?!

The Daily Riff recently posted a list predicting 21 traditional fixtures of learning that may fall by the wayside in the next decade. While this list is focused on the brick and mortar classroom, many of these also apply to students learning virtually. Here’s an excerpt:

1. Desks
The 21st century does not fit neatly into rows. Neither should your students. Allow the network-based concepts of flow, collaboration, and dynamism help you rearrange your room for authentic 21st century learning.

On September 22^nd, the New York Times will be holding the inaugural “Schools for Tomorrow” conference, bringing together preeminent leaders in education, business, politics, and philanthropy to discuss how schools can better harness technology to prepare children for life in the 21^st century.

Influential thought leaders from around the world will be attending the conference, including K¹² founder and CEO Ron Packard. In addition to attending, Ron will be participating in various panel discussions alongside other distinguished professionals and leaders who are helping shape and transform the way we learn.

In a series of thinktanK¹² blog posts, I’ll be taking a look at some trends we can expect to see in education in the near future, as well as introducing you to some of the influential people scheduled to speak at the conference, and how they are helping revolutionize education.

While K¹² students have long embraced the “learning happens everywhere” philosophy, students in traditional schools increasingly want to be able to learn anywhere and anytime. And with mobile devices becoming more affordable and powerful, they can.

I read an interesting article entitled Social media find place in classroom in USA Today yesterday about social media use in education today. It really highlights a shift that is currently taking place in education and the need for all of us to consider how we can and should use technology to ensure our system of learning is engaging young minds and preparing them for the future.