21st Century Learning

Communication
Collaboration
Critical Thinking
Creativity

These 4 skills are learned through our curriculum with an approach that is interdisciplinary, integrated and project-based.  TCDSB is the largest board in Canada that has focused on 21st Century Learning Strategy. This has been done in collaboration with Dr. Rutherford where the emphasis is on moving away from rote learning and moving toward innovation. These skills are required by students to learn and be successful not only in school, but in life.  

6 Competencies:

1. Collaboration
    Preview & Reflect on your Lesson's Level of Collaboration 
2. Knowledge Construction
    Preview & Reflect on your Lesson's Level of Knowledge Construction

3. Real World Problem Solving & Innovation
    Preview & Reflect on your Lesson's Real World Problem Solving & Innovation

4. Skilled Communication
    Preview & Reflect on your Lesson's Level of Skilled Communication 

5. Self-Rgulation
    Preview & Reflect on your Lesson's Level of Self-Regulation

6. Use of ICT for Learning
    Preview & Reflect on your Lesson's Level of ICT Use for Learning
 

21st Century Learning and Constructivism are intertwined and have application to the real world.  It is important that we preview these areas of competencies and advance our lessons from entry levels to transformation levels.  Much of what we discussed today in terms of applying transformation level competencies to our lessons is very similar to what I see in our Gifted Programs!
A great read:   "8 Essentials for Project-Based Learning"
Parents:  see A Parent's Guide to 21st Century Learning