In our efforts to develop a 21st century learning environment, we need to look at all the different ways students get the opportunity to learn and demonstrate their learning. Too often, it is assumed that 21st century learning means using technology. The truth is that technology integration is only one part of having a 21st century learning environment. We got to see some evidence of that at last week's institute day. For instance, the Dream Lab class at the junior high incorporates a lot of the hallmarks of 21st century learning. Using BreakoutEDU, WeVideo, green screens, and Google Cardboard/VR also fall in that category. But so does understanding growth mindset and innovation/innovative problem solving. The last two items are not related to technology, and students in Dream Lab do lots of work that isn't required to be technology based. But technology access can make 21st century learning happen.
Things like collaboration, creative expression, inquiry, and hands-on learning are made easier with the availability of technology. That's why trying to integrate technology into learning helps foster those 21st century skills. Things like flipped lessons, digital citizenship lessons, student created media, and virtual field trips are common ways to integrate technology into your class or curriculum that can also transform the learning experience for students.
Here's a nice article that explains what a 21st century classroom looks like, and
here's one that expands upon the technology integration part of 21st century learning. These articles are short and really easy to understand, which makes them ideal for helping to look at the learning environment you create for your students.
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