It is the 21st century and education, like everything else, has changed dramatically. Since we have moved into the 21st century an unprecedented tsunami has taken over our lives in the area of technology. It changes so rapidly that as adults we find ourselves adapting and overcoming the new and exciting. Instead of being an isolated community stuck in the middle of Alaska we can be connected instantly to things happening around the world. Teachers are realizing the critical need for developing 21st century skills and keeping a clear objective on what is important to children today for success tomorrow.
21st century skills learned throughout their education include interdisciplinary skills, integrated approach, project-based learning, and more. I am learning to utiliz the seven survival skills advocated by Tony Wagner in his book, The Global Achievement Gap, which are:
Many people think that this is a new approach to education but in studying the writings of Ellen White we see that this type of education is of utmost importance except there is a very strong emphasis on developing character, morals and a deep knowledge of Christ. If you are interested in learning more about 21st century education click on the resources in the link below to read or watch more on this fascinating subject. If you have access to E. G. White's book titled Education I encourage you to pick it up and read it. If you don't have access to one and would like to read it just ask and I can get you in touch with her materials. Articles related to 21st Century Teaching (including teachers and schools) |
Teacher Expectations
There are many philosophies of education that have been presented over the past 100 years and each of them has some unique point to stand on: Choice Theory, Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs, Ellen White's Biblical approach, etc. which allow for different interpretations. I like to use the Biblical approach. What you should expect from me as a teacher of your child (or of you if you are the student) is as follows:
Parent Expectations As a teacher the parent is the person that truly makes it happen. You are the one who is spending a considerable bit of time, energy and money into the success of your child. Students by nature try to find the easiest way possible in completing assignments. This is inherent in students and as parents and teachers we address this mindset with idea that the child is required to do more and have higher expectations to accomplish. What should you expect as a parent of a child in my class?
are doing in the class (homework assigned, projects being worked on, etc.). ~Provide a structure for time management.
~Providing your child with the appropriate "down" time. ~Have your child go to bed early (cite any brain and development research). Student Expectations School is a definitive time in your life where you prove to yourself that you have the confidence, ability, determination, and resolve to do something. As a teacher it is my job to help you see this. What do I expect from you? It's simple. Prove to me that you have what it takes. Prove to me that you have the confidence, ability, determination and resolve to accomplish whatever is placed before you. You have to take the challenge and you have to do it. No one else will do it for you and no one can do it for you. You can push yourself like no one else can and that is what I expect from you. Not your parents pushing you or pulling you. Not your teachers pushing you or pulling you. If you do this you will not fail. You will succeed. More importantly you will see yourself in a whole different light and other challenges will be easier to tackle. The course syllabus that you get in each class will outline the course requirements and provide you with the challenge that you must conquer. But my expectation is simple, do the best you can do and don't let anyone or anything get in your way. |