21st Century skills - what are they?

Eighty-eight percent of voters say they believe schools can, and should, incorporate more critical thinking and problem solving, communication and self-direction, and computer and technology skills into the curriculum. The basics of reading, writing, and math were the focus ten to fifteen years ago. Schools were defined as “knowledge hubs,” but the knowledge being attained by the students was simplistic, outdated and impractical for our changing society. What’s more… we continue to function today with curriculum and practices from over a decade ago.The Partnership for 21st Century Skills poll of American voters, reveal that most voters agree, the skills students need to succeed in the workplace of today are notably different from what they needed 20 years ago.

In an employer poll, sponsored by P21 along with the Conference Board, Corporate Voices for Working Families, and the Society for Human Resource Management, business leaders reported that while the three “Rs” are still fundamental to every employee’s ability to do the job, applied skills such as teamwork, critical thinking, and communication also are essential for success.

As an educator, I see the need to build around the core skills. To deepened the student’s knowledge base about big ideas that matter in life and work. I was not a kindergarten teacher who taught about bears, the circus or dinosaurs just to teach the letters of the alphabet in order. I would teach about “Interdependence on the environment” (building on perspectives from animals, plants and people) and “How weather affects our quality of life?” Students need to communicate their ideas, relate to current events and collaborate to solve problems.

The Partnership for 21st Century Skills found only 18 percent of voters thought critical thinking skills were being taught well enough; 16 percent believe that oral communication skills are being developed well; and 15 percent said ethics and social responsibility are being well taught.

Huge economic anxiety is fueling the movement to restructure our education system. We have always known that education is the key to future success but now that China and India are making great strides in education and workforce development, Americans are worried.

Education has to be discussed at every dinner table, company board meeting, school district administration building and political office in our nation. All stakeholders must take action and begin to create harmony toward high expectations for growth toward 21st century skills. This is critical to the future success of the United State’s economy.

Visit www.wigglegigglelearn.com to see how I am making a difference in education.