STUDENT EXCAHANGES AS A MODEL FOR 21ST CENTURY EDUCATION

It is an exciting time in science class as students prepare to engage with peers from across the planet.  Zoom real-time communication student exchanges, facilitated courtesy of iEARN (International Educational and Resource Network), delivered this experience to students in 8th grade physical science classes.

Science curriculum in our schools provides the means to share ideas, express concerns on issues related to the environment and help develop solutions to vexing problems. Students' middle school years at St. Thomas the Apostle School in Crystal Lake, Illinois has involved research, experimentation and concerted efforts to develop solutions that address the impact of climate change on local communities world-wide.

Conceptual understanding of Green Infrastructure, Regenerative Agriculture and Green Energy is a central focus in the science curriculum which addresses real concerns of the people living in local communities.  21st century technologies, embedded in educational models of learning, provide the catalyst for innovation and creativity that unleash human potential to solve problems. This young generation of learners have resources in school to help solve real problems and ultimately lend to the protection and preservation of local ecosystems world-wide.

At the international exchange meeting, students at St. Thomas the Apostle school discussed different aspects of their lives with peers from Moldova and Spain.  A former student in Pakistan also contributed to this discussion by expressing her feelings on the ability of collective thought to help solve problems.

Chicago sports, Moldova architecture and school environments were topics of interest as these students explored new friendships with people from abroad.   There is no greater attribute expressed by people than the ability to get along and be open-minded with each other, and to share life experiences.  The trust built from these student exchanges open the door to a better chance for developing collaborative and cooperative relationships into the future.

I believe it is education that changes the world.  People of all cultures and living experiences can unify by experiencing educational exchanges leading to greater appreciation for the diversity of human life and life as a gift from God that needs to be celebrated and cherished at all times.  The speed of communication displayed in these exchanges, in 21st century learning communities, reflect the speed of dynamics on issues we now face related to climate change.  The speed of development of solutions needs to match this speed of problem orientation.  The clock is running, and this classroom of young problem solvers must accelerate their learning and address issues that threaten our way of life and the lives of all plants and animals on Earth.  

 

JANUARY 2024

                                                               JANUARY 2024

This new year begins with an urgent need to revitalize education and fuel progressive efforts to safeguard schools, protect the environment and preserve our democracy and way of life.  Education is power, and with this power we can help bring forth a more just and equitable society.  When we revitalize education, we develop more effective means to generate needed changes in our world.

Methodologies employed to educate our youth have always been tightly associated with social, cultural and technological changes in our society.  It is the responsibility and duty of educators to keep pace with these changes and to develop curriculum that lends well to challenging and dynamic learning environments.

Inspirational engagement, motivated participation and challenging real-world problem solving are foundations of education that can deliver 21^st century learning in the classroom.  Student engagement in the learning process includes creative and critical thinking, effective communication of ideas and solutions and an open-mindedness to new ways of thinking and collaborative teamwork. 

Conceptual understanding of core principles in math, sciences and social sciences learned by students help solve real-world problems and inspire new ideas that address real-world concerns and issues.  Students embracing a purpose to learn, while also having intellectual resources to accomplish objectives, are fundamental elements for success at school.

Project-based models of learning provide the means for students to orchestrate and encapsule this learning process which helps them to become more learned individuals. In the 21^st century classroom it is important that students stay engaged and focused on this learning process.  Distractions in the classroom and non-school priorities are challenges faced by teachers and students that can inhibit learning.  Teachers and students committed to delivering project outcomes, dealing with real-world problems, provide the emphasis and direction necessary for students to remain focused and continue to be inspired, motivated and accepting of new challenges. 

Momentum in education and the learning process is an inspirational experience. It provides the means and opportunities for young people to challenge themselves, experience failures, embrace success and solidify a mindset of growth. Education is a unique experience that students truly rely upon as they grow intellectually with problem solving abilities in hand.