Journal 4

“Create, Collaborate, Communicate: Empowering Students with 21st Century Skills"

Riedel, Chris. "Create, Collaborate, Communicate: Empowering Students With 21st Century Skills." T.H.E. Journal. January 2009. Retrieved February 28, 2009 from http://www.thejournal.com/articles/23872_1

Riedel started of his article with a very empowering sentence that set the scene for what this article is about. "We need to change the way we teach." The author outlined key points Howie DiBlasi made at a conference about teaching technology. A shocking statistic DiBlasi used was according to a study that ranked 55 industry sectors by their level of IT intensiveness, "education ranked 55. . .below coal mining." To me that is just amazing. We need to get current teachers who are uncomfortable with technology informed.

How do we get teachers who are unfamiliar with current technology more comfortable?

I loved one of DiBlasi's suggestions, hug a geek. It's true. Teachers who are not up to date with current technology, should befriend someone who is. Ask questions, and get extra help. Put in the time and effort to learn more, so that your students won't outshine you. Teachers should know what their students are doing when it comes to technology.

Why is it so important for students to develop problem solving and critical thinking skills and how can you do this?

It's important to start developing these skills at a young age because once you leave school and start looking for jobs most corporations and businesses are looking for people with strong Creative problem solving skills, critical and analytical thinking skills, and the ability to gather and evaluate information. These skills can be developed in school by taking time out to give students brainteasers, puzzles and time to visit online Web sites such as fantasticcontraption.com that will help students think critically.