Change and the 21st Century Learners

Should teaching methodology be any different in 21^st century compared to before? This question is addressed in the two articles ‘The 21^st century learner’ by Dr. Michael Rodgers and ‘Authentic Lwaerning for the 21^st century’ by Marilyn M. Lombardi.

Both the articles emphasize the shift from conventional lesson delivery to the use of new technologies that are available in the field of education. I agree with the teacher’s role as no longer being that of the professor dispensing facts and theories. Faculty must learn to communicate in the language and style of today’s students facilitating peer-to-peer learning. Moreover, the traditional learning space of classroom which was physical in nature can be connected with a virtual space for a blended learning approach.

Authentic learning can only happen when students learn-by-doing. The education technology with different simulation programs enable students to learn through real-world problem solving. One of the courses which I teach to bachelors offers them a similar learning experience. Business decision simulation is a capstone course which gives students a simulated real business environment. They compete against other business companies in a macro environment. Make real life business decisions and face the outcomes.

As for the concept or rather distinction between ‘digital natives’ and ‘digital immigrant’ which was coined by Marc Prensky, I partially agree with it. Siemens critique of the above is his opinion; I don’t take any offence as being referred to as a digital immigrant. I consider myself a proud digital immigrant, why because I learnt and adapted to technology as and when I needed to. I did not grow up in a digital environment because there was none at the time but that did not pose a learning barrier. Rather, it’s been a challenging and invigorating experience learning various education technologies to engage students and facilitate authentic learning.