Living in this busy society can seem like one task, request, or piece of information after the other. Learning to live in the present in the moment can be challenging, but so important for our well being. How can a young person live in the present while also preparing for the workforce of the future? Some might argue that the traditional career paths of a teacher, engineer, doctor, tradesperson, or lawyer will be sufficient. However, the majority of the jobs that will be available to kindergarteners today do not yet exist. Future generations will have access to new opportunities as careers continue to change. The ability to read, write, and calculate are just a few requirements for employment in the twenty-first century. But what about less obvious abilities like critical thinking, embracing curiosity, and teamwork?
Parents and educators alike want to assist in preparing their kids for successful and productive lives. Thirty years ago, educators could never have predicted how much of a role computers, the Internet, and mobile devices would play in people’s lives today. They can now train their students to use such technology more effectively.
Tony Wagner, a PhD candidate at Harvard University, has conducted numerous studies on education in the US and advocated for educational reform. In order to help children in the twenty-first century, Dr. Wagner has challenged parents and educators to consider a new paradigm in education and learning.
Dr. Wagner conducted interviews with hundreds of CEOs who offered insightful information and shared a common theme in their comments. He came up with a list of skills students will always need, regardless of technological advancements: creativity and innovation, initiative and entrepreneurship, agility and adaptability, critical thinking and problem-solving, effective oral and written communication, collaboration across networks and leading by influence, and accessing and analyzing information. Even though parents and teachers may not be able to predict what opportunities will exist in the world of work in the future, they can already help their children by anticipating the skills they will require.
In order to prepare students for success in the twenty-first century, the American Academy of Strategic Education faculty and staff have determined that parents and teachers must envision a different paradigm in education and learning. The Academy incorporates project based lesson concepts into its curriculum so that students can work together, solve problems, and clearly state their conclusions.
As a result of project-based lessons, students often learn more, achieve high aptitude levels, score well on standardized tests, and are better prepared for the twenty-first century workforce. Student attendance and motivation to learn also increase. Parents and educators must keep the big picture in mind as they shift from a focus on raising academic test scores to a more intuitive, holistic approach. American Academy of Strategic Education promotes the development of engaged thinkers, resourceful and resilient learners, and creative problem solvers possessing cognitive, social and emotional, and attitudinal skills. With skills rather than content, students can succeed in the workforce of the twenty-first century.
Media ContactCompany Name: American Academy of Strategic EducationContact Person: Angela Hansen, President and FounderEmail: Send EmailPhone: (949) 371-5785Country: United StatesWebsite: https://american-academy.org/
