Why do we need 21st century skills?

New learning for the most transformative and generative time in history

Traditional first-world education systems are industrial-based and not meeting the needs of students who live and will live and work in an information society.  Our twenty-first century global economy is no longer based on industrial systems, rather, it is a knowledge-based economy.  Reading, writing, mathematics, and science are important, but broad digital literacy, deeper rather than superficial learning, collaboration, problem-solving and research must be built in to prepare students for their future. (http://atc21s.org/index.php/about/)  In this ever-transforming digital world, learning to collaborate and connect though technology are basic skills.  Collaborative problem-solving, critical thinking and decision making skills, learning to work with technology tools and adapt to new tools (information literacy), and understanding and communicating and collaborating effectively with others are hallmarks of skills needed in the twenty-first century.

Transferable learning, which includes content knowledge and procedural knowledge allowing generalizable problem-solving, is the product of deeper learning.  Twenty-first century competencies include both the skills and the knowledge needed to succeed in the global digital world.

Deeper learning cognitive competencies include critical thinking and the ability to construct and appropriately evaluate evidence-based arguments.  Understanding general principles of factual and conceptual knowledge, problem-solving strategies, and ability to apply appropriate procedures, skills and strategies to new situations supports learning transfer.  (P21Webinar, Developing Transferable Knowledge and skills, 2012)

21^st century learning has now become a global movement involved in expanding learning skills to meet student needs in a technological society. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/21st_Century_Skills)

References

• http://atc21s.org/index.php/about/  ATCS21S Research Project

• P21Webinar, Developing Transferable Knowledge and skills, 2012  http://www.youtube.com/user/ptumarkin?feature=watch