21st century learning has evolved quite a bit from the traditional learning styles that were prevalent a few years back. In fact, with the advent of technology, the problems that were being faced initially, like a one-to-one student focus seem to have been mostly taken care of. However, it needs to be understood that technology is not a one word solution for all problems in the education sector. Just like others, it has its own pitfalls too.
Key Factors in 21st century learning
There have been a lot of shift towards digital learning in the last decade. However, without the human intervention, it is still not as effective as it could be. And that is where the concept of blended learning comes in. The idea is just as the name suggests. Students in today’s world have grown up surrounded by technology. As such, it is imperative that they get the same support in the field of education as well. Not only will this help them identify positively with the field, the trends help them cope enthusiastically with the pressure as well.
Next comes the impact of internet. Social websites have evolved to such an extent that they play a very big factor in our lives. As such, it would be prudent not to take advantage of the growing levels of interconnection displayed by these websites. Not only does it help with smoother and easier connection between the students and their teachers, websites like Facebook can actually help share content more easily between parties.
Talking of content, moving to a web based teaching also means substantial savings in the form of content. Unlike traditional teaching aids, what is available freely on the web can be copied easily. Also, since there is substantial educational content in the form of e-books, tests etc. available in the public domain, the process of teaching becomes much easier as well.
Finally, with the concept of one to one computer availability in the form of tablets and smartphones, 21st century learning is taking a new turn. Concepts like Bring Your Own Device (BYOD), which were simply unimaginable till a few years back are slowly but steadily gaining ground. Not only is it easier for students to get hold of lectures with these, each individual’s growth pattern can be monitored quite effectively to formulate a teaching strategy unique to that student. In short, the perfect curriculum.
Challenges
Of course, in order to effectively help with implementing these strategies for 21st century learning and even help with specialized ones, the current workforce of teachers need to be upgraded with extensive training. Not only that, the current schooling methods of having students sit in rows to listen to boring lectures have to be upgraded as well. All in all, there needs to be a more dynamic environment quite a few institutions have already moved to this by introducing movable seats, opting for lecture systems which are being reimagined every day, dynamic lighting and a system that is beginning to focus on application rather than learning.
At the end of the day, the fact remains that the education system in the new century is moving forward for the better. The question that remains is: “Are you ready to embrace it?”
