May 05 2008
The 21st Century Student
The 21st century graduate should be able to understand how to gather information and evaluate the information. They are confronted with vast quantities of information and will need to understand how to synthesize and analyze what they have learned. This will require them to use higher level thinking skills in order to work successfully outside of the school arena.
As educators we need to ensure that our students can perform well in the workplace by ensuring that all students reach their potential and are able to work well with others. I took a minute to research what employers look for in the hiring process. A reoccurring theme was clear in the articles I reviewed. The qualities employers look for in a person really have not changed with the advancement of technology. Employers want to hire people who show a high level of maturity. Employers look for candidates who demonstrate honesty and are sincere.
Determination, quickwit and proof of flexibility are listed as key qualities as well. An applicant’s education is definitely reviewed but is just one of many factors considered. Communications skills rank high on any list and are generally a must for any job.
We need to inform our students about the skills they will need and help them discover their strengths and weaknesses. Students need to be exposed to many different experiences and experiment with a variety of classes. Their dream should be their passion. If students understand how they learn and where their interests lie, they can follow their dream. Most students leave high school without a career goal because they have no experience or understanding of what types of jobs even exist. Many educators are not aware of what jobs will even look like in the next 10-15 years.
Our role is to assist students and give them as many opportunities as possible to fulfill their potential. Web 2.0 tools provide a perfect venue to provide the students with the qualities that employers are seeking. When teachers use these tools they must constantly stress the importance of honesty, integrity and emphasize collaboration with their peers. Students working on online projects are responsible for what they post as well as what they contribute to the assignment.
The school needs to ensure that the proper equipment is available as well as support the staff through professional developoment opportunities.
Sources:
Technology: A Catalyst for Teaching and Learning in the Classroom
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