21st+Century+Skills



We are entering an Age of Knowledge and need to prepare our students for working and living in a fast changing world. Classroom teaching needs to foster the development of skills which will help our students succeed in the work world of the future.

The Partnership of 21st Century Skills is an organization which promotes the development of these skills. The website provides detailed definitions of each skills as well as educational resources on how to foster them in the classroom.

__**IMPORTANT SKILLS: **__

Students need to be able to reason effectively, use different thinking systems, possess the ability to make judgements and solve problems. By asking meaningful questions teachers can foster critical thinking in the classroom. Many of the problems students will be facing in the future will be things we cannot even imagine today. By fostering critical thinking and problem solving skills teachers can help to equip them with the deductive skills they need to face the future.
 * Critical Thinking and Problem Solving **

As technology increases, the virtual size of the world decreases. Skype allows us to talk to people all around the world for virtually no cost. The internet allows us to look up anything about anywhere. As teachers we need to help students develop an acceptance and appreciation for other people, places and culture. Learning how to communicate effectively is a valuable life long skill.
 * Communication **

"Two heads are better than one," is a proverb that many people are familiar with. Never before has the need for collaboration been more important. Technology allows us to communicate, share ideas and collaborate on projects with people around the world.
 * Collaboration **

The ability to innovate and create is essential for the future. Every year thousands of new items are being invented. The technology innovation in the last ten years alone is proof of how imperative it is that students have the opportunity to practice creating in the classroom.
 * Creativity and Innovation **

As there is an increasing amount of technology in our daily lives, teachers need to model behaviours and techniques of productively using technology in the classroom. Students need to learn how to use technology safely, be aware of dangers associated with use, and learn how to use technology effectively.
 * Digital Literacy **