http://www.p21.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=254&Itemid=119
Pretty interesting stuff. I mean, we're told quite often that we need to do our best to bring the 21st century technology into our classrooms. That sure is easy to say, but the bigger chore is to find a way to make it actually happen. It was nice to see a website that has taken the issues facing a modern classroom, and found a way to interweave them with the use of 21st century technology in a way that hopefully prepares students for life in the modern workforce.
Not that working in a classroom equals living under a rock in any way, but I guess I didn't have an idea as to how great the gap was between the life/workforce skills that students exited school with, and the skills that are required to take part in the modern workforce. The gap is apparently large enough to move fifteen states so far to take part in the overall initiative to bring more useful technology into the class and better prepare students. Aside from that realization, the rest seems to be common knowledge. Keep up with NCLB, increase rigor, and build strong life/work skills in the process.
There really isn't anything to disagree with. It's a sound movement to take part in. Who wouldn't want to create more rounded individuals who are better prepared for higher education and the workforce? Seems silly to ask. However, as with just about anything like this, the website seems cryptic. Like you need to spend money, by way of PD, to really be able to take advantage of it. What I do like though, is the enormous list of affiliates that work with the P21 people, like Apple, Dell, and Verizon. Those resources could prove to be very valuable in moving forward with updating my class and curriculum.
The way I see it, this can only help my students. As an educator, it is my job to see that these students learn as much as they can while they are in my room. Readiness for what comes next in their student careers as well as beyond that as part of the workforce, would definitely fall under those parameters. I plan on taking full advantage of the resources offered by the P21 affiliates and using for the betterment of my classroom and students.
I agree with you that it is a bit cryptic. It is a pretty new concept and I would like to see them be more concrete in what they are presenting.
ReplyDeleteThe concepts are fantastic and I don't know how anyone could disagree. As a private school teacher, I need to know how to be involved and being that I don't have a ton of money, it needs to be affordable and realistic.
I feel the same way you do at times. I find it hard to believe there is such a gap between what we teach our students and what they need to know to be successful in the workforce. However, at other times I find my self shaking my head when students that I've had for two years still don't know where the pencil sharpener is or where to turn a paper in at. I think if anyone comes up with the real answer of how to close that gap, they are going to be making a whole lot more money than what a teacher earns in a year.
ReplyDeleteWe definitely must find a way to keep our children current with technology in the 21st century. More so, it is a wonderful thing to be able to access a website that networks with so many other states to collaborate in this common effort.
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