Reflection+Page

The world is changing faster than we could have ever imagined. Everyday we are learning and discovering something new whether it be in the field of medicine or of technology. The question is, are we ready for it? From what I have experienced and from what I have seen in schools, the answer to that question is, no we aren't ready. While the rest of the world is advancing, our education systems have been failing to keep up. It is believed that the old way of teaching of students sitting in rows and being lectured is the way to go. However, what people don't understand is these 21st century learners are bored! They live in a world where technology and information are merely 5 seconds from their finger tips. These students want to learn how they can take what they are taught and apply it to the real world. They want to make a difference and contribute to our ever-changing society. Students want their voices to be heard! And isn't that what school is suppose to be about? Preparing our students to be contributing members of society and to have successful futures. When did we lose sight of this? Education has now all become teaching to a test. At my job, I have asked some of the 7th and 8th graders, when are you actually learning? I am constantly hearing from their teachers that the students are taking comps today or they are taking one of the many states tests. It seems that all they are doing is taking a test. media type="youtube" key="Dby03Oczjps" height="238" width="343" align="center"

As of right now there is no way around these state tests. But what teachers can do is incorporate the 4 C's of learning into their teaching; communication, collaboration, critical thinking and creativity. Teachers need to take on the role of a coach and mentor, not a dictator. They need to guide students with thought provoking questions and allow the students to seek out the answers by any means necessary whether it be through technology or simply a textbook. Giving the freedom of choice enhances the students learning experience and really gives them the chance to show the teacher what they are capable of. Students need to communicate and collaborate with one another to find answers. Learning is best done through students teaching each other. They need to present their findings in their own creative way. Here is the students chance for their voices to be heard. Teachers should allow the students to take their voices outside of the classroom. For example, writing a letter to a congressman or posting videos online for feedback. This kind of learning is what prepares students to face the real world, not a test.